SnapPlus Manure Tracker

Name: SnapPlus Manure Tracker
Author: University of Wisconsin-Madison

University of Wisconsin-Madison

DOCUMENTED

Published in academic literature

For:Industry Professionals

Free

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App Summary

SnapPlus Manure Tracker helps Wisconsin livestock operations and manure haulers track applications and comply with nutrient management plans by identifying areas with a high risk of water contamination. The associated research describes the software as a tool that implements the Wisconsin NRCS 590 Standard by integrating conservation planning, nutrient management models (like the Wisconsin P Index and RUSLE2), and record-keeping into a single interface. The authors conclude this integrated approach simplifies nutrient management planning, ensures internal consistency of data, and provides immediate feedback to support management decisions.

App Screenshots

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Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, SnapPlus Manure Tracker is a mobile component of the SNAP-Plus nutrient management system. The application leverages a map-based interface to identify areas where manure application is restricted due to high contamination risk for groundwater or surface water. The system facilitates in-field logging of manure applications, capturing data for subsequent integration with the full SnapPlus desktop software to generate spreading records and inform comprehensive nutrient management plans.

Evidence & Research Context

The app functions as a mobile data entry tool for the comprehensive SNAP-Plus nutrient management software system developed for Wisconsin agriculture.
The associated research details how the parent software integrates the Wisconsin Phosphorus Index (PI) and the RUSLE2 soil erosion model for regulatory compliance.
The underlying system is designed to meet the criteria of the Wisconsin USDA-NRCS 590 Nutrient Management Standard.
The framework provides immediate feedback for field-level and whole-farm scenario analysis to support management decision-making.

Intended Use & Scope

This tool is intended for Wisconsin livestock operators, crop producers, and commercial manure haulers for in-field operational guidance. The app's primary utility is real-time, location-based restriction checking and data logging. It is not a standalone nutrient management planning tool; data must be synchronized with the SnapPlus desktop software for comprehensive analysis and reporting.

Studies & Publications

1 publication

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

Development/Design Paper

SNAP-Plus, nutrient management software for Wisconsin

Pearson et al. (2016) · University of Wisconsin-Extension

Describes the research-driven development of this app

The new CNMP program of the NRCS requires simultaneous integration of five components: A conservation plan (RUSLE2); A nutrient management plan (NRCS 590 – P based); A record keeping program (CNMP); A manure/wastewater manager (CNMP); A feed management program (CNMP). Most of these components are prepared tediously, by hand, often independently of each other. We have linked software programs that deal with conservation planning, nutrient management, record keeping, and manure management into a single software tool called SNAP-Plus, which has a simple user interface and output forms. The outputs of this tool can then be combined into a CNMP. The SNAP-Plus software is based on a widely accepted and easy to use nutrient management tool, SNAP2000; to which we have added the new Wisconsin P Index (PI); a P and K balancer; and the soil erosion estimator RUSLE2. It will require much less time than current nutrient management planning approaches; it will be internally consistent (i.e., rates and forms of fertilizer/manure, crop rotation, etc. will be consistent across all sub models); and electronic input and output of data will be instantaneous, clear, and consistent. This software implements a comprehensive approach to managing manure and nutrients in accordance with the new Wisconsin NRCS 590 Standard by including the PI and RUSLE2. It also facilitates field and farm level "what if" experimentation by providing field-by-field and whole farm views with immediate feedback for management decisionmaking.

In the Media

Resource for nutrient management: SnapPlus Manure Application Realtime Tracker (SMART)

The SnapPlus team developed SnapPlus Manure Application Realtime Tracker (SMART) to help farmers identify restricted manure hauling areas and maintain better manure hauling records, using realtime tracking technology. Soil scientist Hava Blair leads the SnapPlus team and works on the science behind the software, including soil fertility, erosion, and nutrient loss components. The app was discussed on Dairy Stream with dairy farmer Jeremy Heim, who operates 1,800 acres and assists with manure transportation through his custom business.

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