The slurry season is set to start on 12 January in some parts as governed by the Department of Agriculture. For many, this month offers a welcome respite for stretched storage facilities. At the moment, many fields are in reasonable condition for slurry application.

The heavier wet lands may need some more time before they can be travelled on. Slurry is a valuable source of N, P and K and its effective use on farm can help reduce fertiliser costs. Choosing a method of application for the most effective nitrogen recovery is topical for farmers.

It is advisable that all tractors and slurry equipment used on the road are checked over and road legal. Slurry tankers are exempt from weight on axles when compared with trailers.

The average slurry tanker size has increased by 1,000 gallons over the last few years. The increase in size should also be matched carefully in terms of sustaining a healthy soil, free from compaction. I look at some alternative options and tyre sizes that should be considered.

Darren Bailey profiles the SlurryKat contractors and highlights some new machines for 2017.

In safety, a Galway farmer experienced a near miss with slurry gas.