Farmers can expect to pay similar rates to recent years to contractors for slurry spreading.

With the slurry season now well under way we examine contractor pricing for slurry spreading around the country.

Agitation costs vary depending on the size of the agitator. Costs this spring are ranging from €50 to €60/hour for smaller agitators with €70 to €80/hour being quoted for bigger agitators.

For umbilical slurry spreading systems with splash plates contractors generally charge from €100 to €140/hour while pumping slurry.

Some contractors may have a setup charge around €60 per hour while others may charge as a flat rate for setting up and pumping.

However, it is common for contractors to charge by the bay when pumping slurry.

General costing per bay is €100 to €130/bay excluding agitating and drawing water for which many contractors may then charge per hour.

Splash plate

For contractors spreading slurry using the conventional splash plate method with tankers ranging in size from 2300-2600 gallon prices range from €50 to €70/hour or €25 to €35/load depending on circumstance. This method continues to be the most popular.

Slurry being applied through low-emission systems such as dribble bars, trailing shoe or disc injectors cost from €60 to €80/hour or €35 to €45/load again dependant on tanker size and circumstances.

All prices for slurry spreading depend on payment terms, volumes and the length of the draw involved.

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