Research during the past few years has shown that severe deficiencies of nitrogen (N) are common in fields where manure was applied without immediate incorporation. Data gathered in 2001 continue to support this conclusion and emphasize the need to use the late-spring test to check nitrate levels in such fields. Immediate incorporation of manure into soil is an effective way to reduce odor and losses of N soon after application. Incorporation reduces volatilization of ammonia, which can be a serious problem if manure is spread after it has been stored in pits or piles.