Welcome to Handyman's Shmo and lucky you for having a manure supply!
If you're "picking apples"

, instead of using a rake, get a "manure fork" or a "mulch fork", which looks like a pitchfork only the tines are about 1 1/2 inches apart and it's much sturdier than a rake. You can also "scoop the poop" with this, depending on the shape of the pile. OR use a square point shovel (what I use) and scoop the poop
Fran should pop (poop?) in with some suggestions because she has the same lucky circumstances you do. Looking forward to hearing her ideas!
Liz