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AFFIRM and Alberta MMP Software

Alberta MMP

The Alberta MMP software uses information about an operation’s animals, manure storage, fields, crops and application equipment to plan manure applications (where, when, and how much). The software helps determine if an operation has sufficient total land base, seasonal land availability, manure storage capacity, and application equipment to manage its manure in an environmentally responsible manner. The Alberta MMP is based on Alberta soil, climatic and crop production information and is able to generate Alberta-specific reports, including record summaries that comply with AOPA record keeping requirements (refer to Chapter 7.1). The software gives the user the option of working in metric or imperial units.

Records and Inputs for Alberta MMP

The MMP program has a series of windows to input farm-specific information to develop a manure allocation strategy and prescribes manure application rates. MMP allows input of the following information: Producer and operation information • Animal information • Field description • Livestock rations • Field risk assessment • Manure analysis information • Soil analysis information • Manure equipment information • Crop information • MMP recommendations • Manure storage information • MMP reports •

The end result of the AFFIRM optimization model is a whole-farm summary of where to allocate fertilizer, based on the farm fertilizer budget and the individual field and crop target investment ratios (Figure 7.2.9). Alert messages help to assess if the total budget allocated to achieve the target investment ratios is sufficient to cover fertilizer costs.

Figure 7.2.9 AFFIRM Farm Optimization Results and Alert Messages

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To get the latest version of MMP, go to Ropin’ the Web and search keyword: Alberta MMP).

Guides and sample plans help you develop a nutrient management plan. For assistance in using MMP, contact Alberta’s Ag-Info Centre toll free at 310-FARM (3276).