Sampling is an important part in testing slurry.

Samples should be taken from various tanks on the farm to give a good overview of the nutrient value of slurry.

Slurry can be a very dangerous commodity so ensure that you take the necessary safety precautions when agitating and taking slurry samples from tanks.

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Do not take the slurry sample on your own.

Have someone with you when you are taking the samples.

Top tips

  • Remove all animals from the shed before agitating slurry.
  • The slurry must be agitated before the sample is taken. When agitating, ensure the area is well-ventilated and there is a breeze.
  • Leave plenty of time between agitating the slurry and taking the sample to ensure it is safe to do so.
  • Only use outdoor agitation points and do not take a sample where the extraction point is within a shed.
  • Remember, one breath of slurry gas can kill.
  • You will need to collect approximately two litres of slurry per sample.
  • Use a clean container with a lid, such as an empty mineral bucket, which has been cleaned to transport the sample to the lab.
  • Use a permanent marker to label the sample container with your name, details of the sample and date of sampling.
  • A slurry sample costs between €60 and €80 and most laboratories which analyse soil samples will analyse slurry as well.