For more: http://www.extension.org/67616 Proper management of animal mortalities has important implications for nutrient management, water quality, animal health, and farm/ranch family and public health. To best ensure human health and safety, reduce regulatory risks, and protect environmental resources, livestock producers should become familiar with best management practices (BMPs) for dealing with dead animals. Producers should also be aware of state laws related to proper disposal or processing of mortalities.
Mortality composting is an increasingly popular and viable alternative when compared to other disposal practices because of cost savings, bio-security benefits, and reduced environmental risks. Static mortality composting differs from traditional composting in both management intervals and carbon to nitrogen ratios. The objective of this workshop is to provide those who advise livestock producers with the knowledge, tools, and resources to develop a mortality management plan, with specific focus on the static composting option.
Mortality Disposal and Its Implications on Human, Animal and Environmental He...LPE Learning Center
http://www.extension.org/67572 With disease issues, the decline of the rendering industry, a ban on use of downer cows for food, and rules to halt horse slaughter, environmentally safe and sound practices for disposal of horses and other livestock mortalities are limited. Improper disposal of carcasses containing veterinary drugs has resulted in the death of domestic animals and wildlife. Composting of carcasses has been performed successfully to reduce pathogens, nutrient release, and biosecurity risks. However, there is concern that drugs used in the livestock industry, as feed additives and veterinary therapies do not degrade readily and will persist in compost or leachate, threatening environmental exposure to wildlife, domestic animals and humans.
Two classes of drugs commonly used in the livestock and horse industries include barbiturates for euthanasia and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) for relief of pain and inflammation. Sodium pentobarbital (a barbiturate) and phenylbutazone (an NSAID) concentrations in liver, compost, effluent and leachate were analyzed in two separate horse carcass compost piles in two separate years. Horse liver samples were also buried in 3 feet of loose soil in the first year and drug concentrations were assessed over time.
Measuring Nitrous Oxide & Methane from Feedyard Surfaces - the NFT-NSS Chambe...LPE Learning Center
Full proceedings at: http://www.extension.org/72909 Accurate estimation of greenhouse gas emissions, including nitrous oxide and methane, from open beef cattle feedlots is an increasing concern given the current and potential future reporting requirements for GHG emissions. Research measuring emission fluxes of GHGs from open beef cattle feedlots, however, has been very limited. Soil and environmental scientists have long used various chamber based techniques, particularly non-flow-through - non-steady-state (NFT-NSS) chambers for measuring soil fluxes. Adaptation of this technique to feedyards presents a series of challenges, including spatial variability, presence of animals, chamber base installation issues, gas sample collection and storage, concentration analysis range, and flux calculations.
For more: http://www.extension.org/67684 The Wisconsin Discovery Farms Program was one of the first on-farm evaluation projects to identify the risk of manure applications in the late winter period. Data from several of our farms have shown that manure applied during February and March has an increased risk of running off and contributing to high nutrient losses in surface water. This data has been used to justify the establishment of recommendations, rules and regulations on winter manure spreading. But, do bans on winter manure spreading (spreading on frozen or snow covered ground) actually reduce the risk of manure runoff? A close evaluation of the data indicates that spreading during early winter (November - January) is much different than during late winter when frost can extend deeper and be more solid in the soil profile. Total winter application bans also increase the volume of manure that needs to be stored and increase the risk of runoff during the spring spreading season.
Mortality Disposal and Its Implications on Human, Animal and Environmental He...LPE Learning Center
http://www.extension.org/67572 With disease issues, the decline of the rendering industry, a ban on use of downer cows for food, and rules to halt horse slaughter, environmentally safe and sound practices for disposal of horses and other livestock mortalities are limited. Improper disposal of carcasses containing veterinary drugs has resulted in the death of domestic animals and wildlife. Composting of carcasses has been performed successfully to reduce pathogens, nutrient release, and biosecurity risks. However, there is concern that drugs used in the livestock industry, as feed additives and veterinary therapies do not degrade readily and will persist in compost or leachate, threatening environmental exposure to wildlife, domestic animals and humans.
Two classes of drugs commonly used in the livestock and horse industries include barbiturates for euthanasia and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) for relief of pain and inflammation. Sodium pentobarbital (a barbiturate) and phenylbutazone (an NSAID) concentrations in liver, compost, effluent and leachate were analyzed in two separate horse carcass compost piles in two separate years. Horse liver samples were also buried in 3 feet of loose soil in the first year and drug concentrations were assessed over time.
Measuring Nitrous Oxide & Methane from Feedyard Surfaces - the NFT-NSS Chambe...LPE Learning Center
Full proceedings at: http://www.extension.org/72909 Accurate estimation of greenhouse gas emissions, including nitrous oxide and methane, from open beef cattle feedlots is an increasing concern given the current and potential future reporting requirements for GHG emissions. Research measuring emission fluxes of GHGs from open beef cattle feedlots, however, has been very limited. Soil and environmental scientists have long used various chamber based techniques, particularly non-flow-through - non-steady-state (NFT-NSS) chambers for measuring soil fluxes. Adaptation of this technique to feedyards presents a series of challenges, including spatial variability, presence of animals, chamber base installation issues, gas sample collection and storage, concentration analysis range, and flux calculations.
For more: http://www.extension.org/67684 The Wisconsin Discovery Farms Program was one of the first on-farm evaluation projects to identify the risk of manure applications in the late winter period. Data from several of our farms have shown that manure applied during February and March has an increased risk of running off and contributing to high nutrient losses in surface water. This data has been used to justify the establishment of recommendations, rules and regulations on winter manure spreading. But, do bans on winter manure spreading (spreading on frozen or snow covered ground) actually reduce the risk of manure runoff? A close evaluation of the data indicates that spreading during early winter (November - January) is much different than during late winter when frost can extend deeper and be more solid in the soil profile. Total winter application bans also increase the volume of manure that needs to be stored and increase the risk of runoff during the spring spreading season.
For more: http://www.extension.org/68315 Managing animal mortalities is an unpleasant but necessary part of raising livestock or poultry. Improper carcass disposal can negatively impact the environment and be a source of disease or pathogens. This material was developed for use in beginning farmer and extension programs, high school classrooms, and for self-study or professional continuing education.
Although commonly used in other settings, defining animal welfare as part of a corporate CSR setting is not new.
There are many ways to define CSR. What they have in common is that CSR describes how companies manage their business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. The phenomenon CSR is a value concept that is susceptible to particular ideological and emotional interpretations. Different organizations have framed different definitions - although there is considerable common ground between them.
Some important national players of the food chain at different steps (mainly food retailers and food services) have included animal welfare in their CSR.
Alternative Production - Season Extension Methods; Gardening Guidebook for Missouri www.scribd.com/doc/239851313 ~ Master Gardeners, Missouri State University~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
See the Light at the End of the (High & Low) Tunnel; Gardening Guidebook for Tennessee ~ University in Tennessee ~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
For more: http://www.extension.org/68315 Managing animal mortalities is an unpleasant but necessary part of raising livestock or poultry. Improper carcass disposal can negatively impact the environment and be a source of disease or pathogens. This material was developed for use in beginning farmer and extension programs, high school classrooms, and for self-study or professional continuing education.
Although commonly used in other settings, defining animal welfare as part of a corporate CSR setting is not new.
There are many ways to define CSR. What they have in common is that CSR describes how companies manage their business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. The phenomenon CSR is a value concept that is susceptible to particular ideological and emotional interpretations. Different organizations have framed different definitions - although there is considerable common ground between them.
Some important national players of the food chain at different steps (mainly food retailers and food services) have included animal welfare in their CSR.
Alternative Production - Season Extension Methods; Gardening Guidebook for Missouri www.scribd.com/doc/239851313 ~ Master Gardeners, Missouri State University~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
See the Light at the End of the (High & Low) Tunnel; Gardening Guidebook for Tennessee ~ University in Tennessee ~ For more information, Please see websites below:
`
Organic Edible Schoolyards & Gardening with Children =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851214 ~
`
Double Food Production from your School Garden with Organic Tech =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851079 ~
`
Free School Gardening Art Posters =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Increase Food Production with Companion Planting in your School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851159 ~
`
Healthy Foods Dramatically Improves Student Academic Success =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851348 ~
`
City Chickens for your Organic School Garden =
http://scribd.com/doc/239850440 ~
`
Huerto Ecológico, Tecnologías Sostenibles, Agricultura Organica
http://scribd.com/doc/239850233
`
Simple Square Foot Gardening for Schools - Teacher Guide =
http://scribd.com/doc/239851110
solid waste is defined as “non liquid, non-soluble materials ranging from municipal garbage to industrial wastes that contain complex & sometimes hazardous substances”
Brad Bergefurd - Hoop House Specialty Crop ProductionJohn Blue
Hoop House Specialty Crop Production - Brad Bergefurd, Ohio State University South Centers, from the 2018 Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference, March 6 - 7, Ada, OH, USA.
More presentations at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZBwPfKdlk4SB63zZy16kyA
This presentation provides an overview of the benefits of cover crops, management considerations, cover crop species for Arkansas and Oklahoma, and the economic benefits of cover cropping.
Animal agriculture adaptation planning guide (climate change)LPE Learning Center
This 44-page publication produced by the AACC project is a planning guide to help guide farmers through the process of future farm planning considering climate change.
Format: Factsheet or Publication - Reference: Schmidt, D., E. Whitefield, D. Smith. 2014. Produced for Animal Agriculture in a Changing Climate Project.
What is the difference when talking about weather versus climate? How do you measure and describe the atmosphere? How are models used in predicting weather or climate? For more on this topic, visit: http://extension.org/60702
What are some of the basic principles and terminology involved in climate change? Learn more about the Earth's atmosphere, energy balance, and how the greenhouse effect can alter both climate and weather. What is climate forcing? What is climate feedback? For more on this topic, visit: http://extension.org/60702
The current state of cap-and-trade in the U.S. and the mandatory greenhouse g...LPE Learning Center
Where is U.S. policy and voluntary markets current at in terms of cap-and-trade? What is the mandatory greenhouse gas reporting rule and how does it apply to animal agriculture? For more on this topic, visit: http://extension.org/60702
Mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions in animal agricultureLPE Learning Center
What steps can animal agriculture take to reduce (mitigate) the greenhouse gas emissions from their farms? What is carbon sequestration and how will that play a role? For more on this topic, visit: http://extension.org/60702
Contribution of greenhouse gas emissions: animal agriculture in perspectiveLPE Learning Center
What are the emissions of relevant greenhouse gases from animal agriculture production and how does that compare to other industries? For more on this topic, visit: http://extension.org/60702
User capabilities and next generation phosphorus (p) indicesLPE Learning Center
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72814
The phosphorus (P) index is the primary approach to identify field management strategies and/or manure application strategies likely to lead to excessive risk of P loss. It has been over 40 years since the first research connecting agronomic P management and water quality and over 20 years since the initial publication defining a P Index. This session will consider opportunities to build on and expand existing P Index strategies to make them more effective at protecting water quality and friendlier to the target user.
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72818
Phosphorus indices provide relative loss ratings that then have a corresponding management response. Because most state Phosphorus Indices are qualitative it is not clear how the relative loss rating corresponds to actual phosphorus inputs into the receiving water and how the receiving water would react to these additions. Even with qualitative Phosphorus Indices, unless the water resource has a specific Total Maximum Daily Load, it is not clear how losses correspond to water quality outcomes. These issues will be discussed in the context of the 590 Natural Resources Conservation Standard for nutrient management.
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72868
There has been a tremendous amount of activity and funding of conservation programs with regional and watershed-specific cost-share initiatives. While there have been some successes, water quality response in many areas has not been as great as expected. This has led many to question the efficacy of these measures and to call for stricter land and nutrient management strategies. In many cases, this limited response has been due to the legacies of past management activities, where sinks and stores of phosphorus along the land-freshwater continuum mask the effects of reductions in edge-of-field losses of phosphorus.
Estimation of phosphorus loss from agricultural land in the southern region o...LPE Learning Center
Full Proceedings is available at: http://www.extension.org/72817
The purpose of our work was to determine, within the southern region (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, and TX), the feasibility of using different models to determine potential phosphorus loss from agricultural fields in lieu of phosphorus indices.
Estimation of phosphorus loss from agricultural land in the heartland region ...LPE Learning Center
Full Proceedings is available at: http://www.extension.org/72813
Phosphorus (P) indices are a key tool to minimize P loss from agricultural fields but there is insufficient water quality data to fully test them. Our goal is to use the Agricultural Policy/Environmental eXtender Model (APEX), calibrated with existing edge-of-field runoff data, to refine P indices and demonstrate their utility as a field assessment tool capable of protecting water quality. In this phase of the project our goal is to use existing small-watershed data from the Heartland Region (IA, KS, MO and NE) to determine the level of calibration needed for APEX before using the model to generate estimates of P loads appropriate for evaluating a P Index.
Checking ambition with reality the pros and cons of different approaches to s...LPE Learning Center
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72793
The revision of the USDA-NRCS national standard for nutrient management in 2011 was driven, in part, by inconsistencies in state phosphorus (P) indices, rekindling debates over standardizing indices at regional or national scales. Reasonable arguments exist for maintaining the status quo, which allows for state specific site assessment approaches, as well as for regional and national P Indices, which would take advantage of expertise, resources and technologies that may not exist locally. In addition, a diversity of site assessment approaches have now been proposed that differ from the original P Index. Understanding the benefits and limitations provided with these approaches is key to advancing site assessment for P management.
Removing phosphorus from drainage water the phosphorus removal structureLPE Learning Center
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72839
We constructed a phosphorus (P) removal structure on a poultry farm in Eastern OK; this is a BMP that can remove dissolved P loading in the short term until soil legacy P concentrations decrease below levels of environmental concern. A P removal structure contains P sorbing materials (PSMs) and are placed in a location to intercept runoff or subsurface drainage with high dissolved P concentrations. As high P water flows through the PSMs, dissolved P is sorbed onto the materials by several potential mechanisms, allowing low P water to exit the structure. While they vary in form, P removal structures contain three main elements: 1) use of a filter material that has a high affinity for P, 2) containment of the material, and 3) the ability to remove that material and replace it after it becomes saturated with P and is no longer effective.
Legacy phosphorus in calcareous soils effects of long term poultry litter app...LPE Learning Center
Full proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72864
Livestock manures, including poultry litter, are often applied to soil as crop fertilizer or as a disposal mechanism near livestock housing. Manures can improve soil quality and fertility; however, over-application can result in negative environmental consequences, such as eutrophication of surface waters following runoff of soluble or particulate-associate phosphorus (P). In soil, P exists in many forms (inorganic/organic, labile/stable) and the fate of manure P is highly dependent upon soil properties, including soil texture and microbial activity. The Houston Black series is a calcareous (~17% calcium carbonate), high-clay soil that occupies roughly 12.6 million acres in east-central Texas. These Blackland vertizols are agronomically important for the production of cotton, corn, hay, and other crops, but their high calcium and clay content could lead to accumulation of P in forms that are not readily available for plant utilization. Accumulated P could serve as a source of legacy P if mineralized or otherwise transformed in situ or transported with soil particles in runoff.
Identify and synthesize methods to refine phosphorus indices from three regio...LPE Learning Center
The full proceedings paper is at: http://www.extension.org/72867
This project was started to work with regional CIG projects to calibrate and harmonize Phosphorus Indices across the U.S., demonstrate their accuracy in identifying the magnitude and extent of phosphorus loss risk, and provide suggestions to refine or improve existing Indices. This research is important to provide consistency among state Phosphorus Indices and their subsequent recommendations.
Modeling phosphorus runoff in the chesapeake bay region to test the phosphoru...LPE Learning Center
Full Proceedings available at: http://www.extension.org/72795
The revision of USDA-NRCS’s standard for nutrient management coincided with significant assessment of the performance of Phosphorus (P) Indices in the six states that are tied to the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The 64,000 square mile watershed is the focus of unprecedented activity around nutrient management as a result of a 2011 Total Maximum Daily Load for P, nitrogen (N), and sediment under the Clean Water Act. In addition, the state of Maryland had required updates to it’s original P Index, resulting in broad scrutiny by various interest groups. Within this setting, USDA-NRCS funded a multi-state project to help advance the testing and harmonization of P-based management in the Chesapeake region.
it describes the bony anatomy including the femoral head , acetabulum, labrum . also discusses the capsule , ligaments . muscle that act on the hip joint and the range of motion are outlined. factors affecting hip joint stability and weight transmission through the joint are summarized.
Introduction to AI for Nonprofits with Tapp NetworkTechSoup
Dive into the world of AI! Experts Jon Hill and Tareq Monaur will guide you through AI's role in enhancing nonprofit websites and basic marketing strategies, making it easy to understand and apply.
Delivering Micro-Credentials in Technical and Vocational Education and TrainingAG2 Design
Explore how micro-credentials are transforming Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) with this comprehensive slide deck. Discover what micro-credentials are, their importance in TVET, the advantages they offer, and the insights from industry experts. Additionally, learn about the top software applications available for creating and managing micro-credentials. This presentation also includes valuable resources and a discussion on the future of these specialised certifications.
For more detailed information on delivering micro-credentials in TVET, visit this https://tvettrainer.com/delivering-micro-credentials-in-tvet/
Macroeconomics- Movie Location
This will be used as part of your Personal Professional Portfolio once graded.
Objective:
Prepare a presentation or a paper using research, basic comparative analysis, data organization and application of economic information. You will make an informed assessment of an economic climate outside of the United States to accomplish an entertainment industry objective.
Unit 8 - Information and Communication Technology (Paper I).pdfThiyagu K
This slides describes the basic concepts of ICT, basics of Email, Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives in Education. This presentations aligns with the UGC Paper I syllabus.
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty, In...Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
Exploiting Artificial Intelligence for Empowering Researchers and Faculty,
International FDP on Fundamentals of Research in Social Sciences
at Integral University, Lucknow, 06.06.2024
By Dr. Vinod Kumar Kanvaria
MATATAG CURRICULUM: ASSESSING THE READINESS OF ELEM. PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS I...NelTorrente
In this research, it concludes that while the readiness of teachers in Caloocan City to implement the MATATAG Curriculum is generally positive, targeted efforts in professional development, resource distribution, support networks, and comprehensive preparation can address the existing gaps and ensure successful curriculum implementation.
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
Acetabularia Information For Class 9 .docxvaibhavrinwa19
Acetabularia acetabulum is a single-celled green alga that in its vegetative state is morphologically differentiated into a basal rhizoid and an axially elongated stalk, which bears whorls of branching hairs. The single diploid nucleus resides in the rhizoid.
A review of the growth of the Israel Genealogy Research Association Database Collection for the last 12 months. Our collection is now passed the 3 million mark and still growing. See which archives have contributed the most. See the different types of records we have, and which years have had records added. You can also see what we have for the future.
2. Authors
• Thomas Bass, Montana State University
• David Colburn, NRCS, Sterling CO
• Jessica Davis, Colorado State University
• John Deering, Colorado State University
• Michael Fisher, Colorado State University
• Robert Flynn, New Mexico State University
• Sarah Lupis, Colorado State University
• Jay Norton, University of Wyoming
• Nicolette Schauermann, Colorado State University
3. Editorial Team
• Editors
– Sarah Lupis, Colorado State University
– Thomas Bass, Montana State University
• Associate Editors
– Jean Bonhotal, Cornell University
– Julia Dafoe, Montana Agricultural Experiment
Station
– Joshua Payne, Oklahoma State University
4. Today’s Speakers
• Jessica Davis, PhD
– Professor, Crop and Soil Sciences
– Colorado State University
• Michael Fisher, MS
– Area Agent/County Director, Livestock Production
– Colorado State University
5. Today’s Speakers
• Thomas Bass, MS
– Associate Extension Specialist, Animal and Range
– Montana State University
• John Deering, MS
– Extension Specialist, Ag Econ and Business Mngt.
– Colorado State University
6. Project Products
This project was funded by a grant from
the Western Sustainable Agriculture
Research and Education Program
http://wsare.usu.edu - 435.797.2257
• Manual (English and Spanish)
• Video
• Budget & Decision Tool
• PowerPoint Companion
7. MORTALITY MANAGEMENT
• The purpose of proper mortality disposal is to
prevent the spread of infectious, contagious
and communicable diseases and to protect
air, water and soil quality.
• Most states have laws through environmental
or agricultural authorities to regulate proper
animal mortality disposal.
8. Illegal or Discouraged Option
• Carcass Abandonment: likely illegal in most
states in the U.S.
– Promotes:
• extreme biological and disease hazard,
• threats to water quality,
• odors, flies, scavengers,
rodents,
• and visual pollution
Credit: Rilho – fotocommunity.com
9. Generally Accepted Options
• Incineration: done in a properly engineered
device with emission controls
– consumes entire animal
– high fuel consumption
• Burning: primarily an emergency measure
– difficult to maintain flame and temperature
– difficult to consume animal
– uncontrolled emissions
10. Generally Accepted Options
• Burial: most commonly accepted method
– defined separation distances from ground and
surface water
– defined amount of coverage over animals
– Site may require soils assessment and permitting
11. Generally Accepted Options
• Landfilling: “buried” at licensed landfill
– must be accepted by individual facility
– requires transportation and tipping fees
• Rendering: heat driven process to separate
products from tissues
– requires transportation and possible storage of
carcass
– diminishing opportunities across U.S.
12. Generally Accepted Options
• Composting: is gaining more acceptance as a
legal option in most states
– natural process driven by oxygen, moisture and
microbes
– feasible for larger carcasses, even in cold semi-arid
climates
– reduced environmental risks
– and the generation of a useful end-product*
*limited use recommendations are covered later in this presentation.
13. Compost is a, “managed, biological, oxidation
process that converts heterogeneous organic
matter into a more homogeneous, fine-particle
humus-like material” (Field Guide to On-farm Composting, 1999)
14. • “Farming microorganisms” – primarily bacteria
and fungi; to compost, they require:
– Carbon: fibrous waste such as wood chips, straw
and crop residues
– Nitrogen: component of manure, carcasses, and
plant material
– Oxygen: passive aeration and by turning
– Water: ideal content is approximately 50%
Composting Principles
15. • Carbon and nitrogen are usually supplied in a
30:1 ratio for best results
– commonly expressed as C:N = 30:1
• For livestock mortalities, especially large
carcasses, the 30:1 wisdom does not apply
– recommended carbon for dead animals far
exceeds this, due to construction of piles or
windrows with proper cover
Composting Principles
16. • Oxygen is maintained in aerobic composting
by turning, and initial particle size.
– turning mechanically aerates as the pile is mixed
– mortality compost is turned on a limited basis
– larger or coarser carbon material allows more
passive aeration; ie: airflow
– a coarse carbon base is recommended for
mortality composting
Composting Principles
17. Incorporating Animals into the
Composting Process
• Carcasses should be laid on their side
• Base should be 18 to 24 inches of coarse
carbon
– larger wood chips
• Margins of coverage
should be 18- 24 inches
as well
18. Incorporating Animals into the
Composting Process
• Smaller carcasses can be arranged, as before…
• Base should be 18 to 24 inches of coarse
carbon
– larger wood chips
• Margins of coverage
should be 18- 24 inches
as well
20. Base and Cover
• Coarse base material aids in passive aeration
for first 3-6 months
• Material around carcass may be finer
– active compost, manure solids or spoiled silage
help get microbial activity started
• Cap should be non-odorous, and will act as
insulation and bio-filter
– add extra cap/cover as needed
21. Tips!
• Ideal moisture of core materials (closest to
carcass) is (50-60%)
• Warm materials help start process in winter
• Carcasses not yet frozen from winter temps
will heat faster
• Even with freezing ambient
temperatures, composting will happen
22. Tips!
• Even with freezing ambient
temperatures, composting will happen!
– core temps
were 140F+,
when this photo
was taken at
Havre, Montana
23. Carbon Options
• See carbon source table in manual for full list
of examples:
– course wood chips
– sawdust
– straw
– silage
– manure solids
– corn stalks
– crop processing
wastes
24. Carbon Options
• Reminder:
– materials with moisture of 50-60% will help
maintain process for weeks without irrigation or
turning
– adequate base and cover will prevent leaching of
carcass moisture and odors
– low odor reduces neighbor complaints and
scavenger problems
25. Windrows, Bins & Sizing
• Windrows have the largest footprint and will
require the most carbon material for base and
cover
– windrows may be ideal for multiple mortalities
over a shorter period of time
• Bins will reduce footprint and conserve carbon
material supply
– bins may be ideal for layered small carcasses or
intermittent larger mortalities
26. Windrows, Bins & Sizing
• Estimates of total material for full grown cow
in a single pile range, from 12 cubic yards
down to 7.4 cubic yards
– to make a windrow, add new carcasses up against
first pile, and cover appropriately
• Practically speaking, for a mature cow, proper
base will be about 9 feet wide by 10 feet long
– core and cap materials should be a margin of 18-
24 inches
27. Windrows, Bins & Sizing
• Margins between layers of small carcasses can
be 8-12 inches
– final cover margin should still be 18-24 inches
28. Tips on Bins
• Bins may be constructed of:
– hay bales
– concrete barriers
– wooden structures
• Bins are easier to fence/block to exclude
scavengers
• Passive aeration may be reduced with
bins, and slightly lengthen process
29. Facilities Construction
and Engineering
• Additional information and USDA-NRCS
standards for this practice and related
facilities/structures can be found in Practice
Standard 316 and the National Engineering
Handbook
30. Monitoring and Management
• Composting takes 4-12 months depending on
mortality size and mixture
• The process is passive and should not be
turned for 4-6 months
– the pile, windrow or bin can be turned after this
point
• Most soft tissue will be gone within 6-8
weeks!
31. Monitoring and Management
• Temperature:
– optimum composting happens with core
temperatures between 120 F – 150 F
– below 80 F, microorganisms are not thriving
– could be too dry or have low oxygen
– temperature can be checked with a probe
thermometer
33. Monitoring and Management
• Moisture:
– since this process is largely passive, starting with
proper moisture is important
– carbon sources with 50% – 60% are ideal
– it may be necessary to wet core and cap if
materials are extremely dry (when carcass is
added)
– after the passive phase, water can be added with
turning
34. Monitoring and Management
• Other Issues:
– monitor for scavenger activity
– monitor for excessive flies
– make sure cover is adequate over time
• The compost area should be free of these
problems if basic directions are followed
– i.e.: good carbon materials, proper starting
moisture, and proper cover
35. Monitoring and Management
• Maintaining cover should prevent scavengers
– at research sites, known dogs, coyotes and birds
did NOT disturb properly covered piles
36. Curing and Storage
• After trial and error to determine site specific
time for passive phase, turning will help finish
• Some large, but brittle bones may remain
• Materials may have dried out
• Breakdown of carbon material and particle
size reduction may inhibit passive aeration
37. Curing and Storage
• After 4-6 months…
– turn
– irrigate if necessary
– remove large bones
if desired
– let “cure” for another
4-8 months
38. Curing and Storage
• Curing: period of warm, but not
hot, composting
– final breakdown will occur
– temperature will cool to near ambient conditions
– may use compost for new mortalities or limited
land-application
39. Site Selection
• An appropriate site will:
– help to protect water and soil quality
– protect bio-security (prevent spread of pathogens
or disease)
– prevent complaints and negative reactions of
neighbors
– decrease nuisance problems
– minimize the challenges in operating and
managing the composting operation.
40. Site Selection
• Location of the composting site should be:
– above/out of floodplains
– easily accessible (in most weather)
– require minimal travel
– be convenient for material handling
– maintain an adequate distance from live
production animals to reduce the risk of the
spread of disease.
41. Site Selection
• The compost site should also be:
– in a well drained area
– on soils of low permeability or a pad
– graded to prevent “pooling” or “ponding”
– protected from run-on from land above site
• Check local regulations for depth above
groundwater and separation from surface
water and wells!
42. Site Selection
• Storm water
– divert storm water from land area above site with
berms or ditches
– direct rain and snow may be beneficial in semi-
arid west
– if excessive storm water is possible, a run-off
collection system may be necessary
– grass filter strips may also be appropriate
43. Equipment Decisions
• Most mortality composting can be done with
basic equipment already on-site
– front end loader or skid steer loader
– probe thermometer
– water source and hose
– screen (optional)
44. Equipment Decisions
• Hand-made screen to separate bones and
unfinished coarse materials
– these may be added
back to another
hot pile
45. Effect of Climate
• This process will work in the cold semi-arid
west!
• Review:
– proper moisture
– active core material helps maintain temperatures
– place non-frozen carcasses when possible
– proper cover to maintain temperatures and
internal moisture
46. Issues to Watch Out For
• Bones – screening or removal is
recommended
• Operational mortality – consider number of
predicted mortality and size site accordingly
• Scavengers and odors – largely controlled by
proper cover and choice of cap materials
47. Issues to Watch Out For
• Nuisance insects – high moisture can lead to
breeding of flies
• Neighbor/public relations – consider visual
screens or site away from road or neighbor
view
• Maintain recommended practices and
management to mitigate all potential issues
48. Compost Quality and Use
• Finished mortality compost can have limited
use on-site
– use for future mortality composting
– use on non-food crops as soil amendment or
fertilizer
– do NOT export from operation or sell
– consult veterinarian if mortalities are disease
related
49. Diseases and Prions
• Consult with veterinarian, before composting
is started, regarding all disease issues
• Prion diseases may not be killed by
composting
– BSE may be unlikely due to USDA/FDA controls
– however, scrapie (in sheep and goats) in small
ruminants is known to exist in North America
– chronic wasting disease is known in deer and elk
50. Emergency Situations
• All livestock operations should have an
emergency plan
• Work with Extension or NRCS to develop a
plan to deal with flood or high winds
damaging the compost site
• Refer back to site selection recommendations
51. Emergency Situations
• Composting can be a valuable tool for
emergency management
• Catastrophic mortality events can be managed
with composting
• Consult veterinarians and emergency
managers before initiating emergency
mortality compost measures!
52. Economics
• Mortality composting may be the most
economic practice
– less labor than digging pits
– same site can be reused
– no transportation, tipping fees or rendering fees
– basic equipment is likely already on-site
53. Economics
• See “partial budgeting” tool and worksheet
• Will a change in practices be beneficial to the
economics of the business?
– Additional Returns: not likely as mortality compost
is not recommended for sale
– Reduced Costs: likely as composting can be the
least cost practice
54. Economics
• Will a change in practices be beneficial to the
economics of the business?
– Additional Costs: possible, if carbon materials or
equipment purchases are required
– Reduced Returns: possible if carcasses were sold
to a renderer
56. Econ – Simple Scenario #1
• Additional returns: $0 (compost will NOT be sold)
• Reduced Costs: burying a carcass costs $200
(hired labor and rented back-hoe)
• Additional costs: $50 (operation has silage, straw
and front end loader already, but must pay
existing labor to do job)
• Reduced returns: $0, no sale of carcasses to
renderer
– operation comes out $150 ahead for composting
57. Econ – Simple Scenario #2
• Additional returns: $0 (compost will NOT be sold)
• Reduced Costs: $0 (carcasses picked up by
renderer)
• Additional costs: $50 (operation has silage, straw
and front end loader already, but must pay
existing labor to do job)
• Reduced returns: $40 (renderer would have paid
for fresh carcass)
– operation loses $90 (cost of labor & loss of sale)
58. Economics – Complications
• Does composting provide other benefit?
– use on own crop land?
– better biosecurity?
• Is composting less labor than burial with
existing equipment?
• Will any compost equipment choices pay-off
over time? How long?
59. Economics – Decisions
• Work with producer to analyze all
benefits/costs
• Advise but let producer weigh options and
make decision
60. Regulations and Permitting
• Composting is likely regulated!
• Could be:
– stand-alone regulations
– already covered by AFO/CAFO permit
• May be supervised by:
– Department of Ag
– Department of Livestock
– Environmental or Waste Department
61. Regulations and Permitting
• Consult with:
– state agencies
– advisors and technical service providers
• Extension
• NRCS
• commodity association
• consultant
• Manual has basic information and
contacts for MT, WY, CO and NM!
62. Summary
• Composting is a feasible practice for mortality
management in the cold semi-arid west
• It is also proven in more moderate climates
• Composting may be preferable for:
– economic reasons
– biosecurity
– public and neighbor relations
63. Summary
• A Quick Reference
Guide is provided
at the end of
manual
– Step-by-step,
2-page summary
– Download to view
64. Summary
• Visit: http://livestockandenvironment.org to
download or order project products and tools;
– Click on Projects, then Summaries; select
Mortality Management
• Questions and Comments?
Thank you for your time!
65. Project Products
• Manual (English and Spanish)
• Video
• Budget & Decision Tool
• PowerPoint Companion
http://livestockandenvironment.org
Editor's Notes
Images: a cow placed in bin with saw dust during February in Havre Montana was reduced to a few barely identifiable bones by June. The compost pile maintained temperatures above 140 deg F, even while ambient air temp was well below zero.Add speakers names or whatever information you prefer. Insert presenting agency’s or institution’s logo. It is okay if the logo is already a collaborator listed above.
Image credit: Cornell SWMI
Photo credit: Texas Agrilife Extension
Image: saw dust base in hay-bale bin; ready for carcass.
Image: saw dust base in hay-bale bin; ready for carcass.
Tip: bins can reduce this footprint and conserve carbon material, especially for single mortalities.
Image credit: Cornell SWMI
Around 130 F most pathogens are destroyed. This graph shows actual temperatures at the 18 inch depth and 36 inch depth of a mature sized cow. Ambient temperatures in the environment were often below freezing. Havre, MT.
As mentioned, using carbon sources with 50% – 60% is ideal. This is “wet” enough to drive the process while still absorbing initial leaching from carcass
Image: full grown cow, exposed at 3 months in Havre, MT. Residual bones are visible. Turning and irrigation is recommended for this pile at this time.
A compost site should be located in a well-drained area (but not well drained soils) that is at least 3 to 4 feet above the high water table level, at least 300-500 feet from sensitive water resources (e.g., streams, ponds, wells, etc.), and that has adequate slope (1-3%) to allow proper drainage and prevent pooling of water.
A compost site should be located in a well-drained area (but not well drained soils) that is at least 3 to 4 feet above the high water table level, at least 300-500 feet from sensitive water resources (e.g., streams, ponds, wells, etc.), and that has adequate slope (1-3%) to allow proper drainage and prevent pooling of water.
Front end loader or skid steer loader – appropriate size for moving/placing carcassesProbe thermometer - $50 to $80 investment from ag supply companyWater source and hose – tank or well to irrigate materials or irrigate and finishScreen (optional) – hand-built to separate bones or large particles
Front end loader or skid steer loader – appropriate size for moving/placing carcassesProbe thermometer - $50 to $80 investment from ag supply companyWater source and hose – tank or well to irrigate materials or irrigate and finishScreen (optional) – hand-built to separate bones or large particles
Good success with silage, scraped manure or manure solids, and warm or active compost as core. Cover with inert, non- odorous carbon cap such as sawdust or straw.
Repeat of slide 2. Omit, or leave here at the end for a reminder.