Complex requirements imposed on the handling of animal manure calls for operational optimization of its
application. This includes transport and distribution strategies based on an operational evaluation of the
sequence of operations, e.g., loading at the storage site, transportation, and application in the field. Such an
evaluation requires an understanding of the consequences of using various technologies in terms of labor
input, system capacity, and logistics, which might result in different degrees of efficiency in the utilization of
manure nutrients as well as differing effects on the environment. A modeling framework was developed for
evaluating the operational performance of manure-handling machinery, given specific external and internal
conditions on the farm. The knowledge base encompasses capacity and labor requirements for the
application of slurry using injection or trailing hoses. Simulations show that shallow injection applicators
with working widths of 6–8 m have a 35–40% higher capacity than deep/closed types with working widths
of 2–3 m, and a 7-20% lower capacity than surface application. The bottleneck in the application system is
the time-consuming transport part of the application process. The use of self-propelled slurry applicators
connected to a transportable drag hose or underground pipelines may be beneficial when compared with
traditional tanker systems. A typical separation scenario involving a decanting centrifuge may reduce the
transport distance by 61-78% as compared with a scenario without separation. Overall, evaluations show that
it is possible to combine the normally conflicting goals of maintaining efficient application systems, in terms
of low labor input and high capacity to satisfy workability constraints, while at the same time complying
with environmental constraints in terms of reduced ammonia and odor emissions.