Ammonia BMPs for Feedlots
After a comprehensive literature search, we identified the BMPs that had the most promise to be effective, cost efficient, easy to manage, and were practical for use on feedlot operations. Based on these criteria, we decided to test the following BMPs (click on headings to visit each BMP page):
- Manure Harvesting Rates
- Surface Amendment Application (Alum)
- Manipulate Pen Surface Moisture Level (Water Sprinkling)
- Addition of Shade Structures in Pens
- Stockpiling vs. Mounding of Manure in Pens
- In-Pen vs. Out-of-Pen Stockpiling
- Compost C:N Manipulation
- Compost vs. Stockpiling of Manure
- Dietary Crude Protein and Phase Feding
- Conventional vs. Naturally fed cattle (i.e with and without feed additives)
Effectiveness |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Practicality |
X |
X | X |
X |
X |
Cost |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
Overall |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
For each BMP we have assigned a quick glance summary table to show you the rating for our four assessment categories: effectiveness, practicality, cost, and overall performance of each BMP. The scale is from 1 to 5. For Effectiveness, Practicality, and Overall, a rating of 1 is the worst and 5 is the best. For Cost, 1 is low cost of implementation/use, 5 is high cost. For example, the table to the right would indicate that the BMP was moderately effective, not practical, had a high cost, and was overall not very good.
At this time all results from season 1 are preliminary and require replication. As they are further tested and analyzed, feedlot BMP results and discussions will be posted on this page. Please check in often for new information.
*It is important to note that not all BMPs are viable on every operation. BMPs must be selected individually for an operation based on current management practices, BMPs already in place, operation layout, economics, and ammonia reduction goals. Additionally, the BMP with the most proven potential for ammonia reduction might not exhibit the same results on every operation. BMPs should be chosen wisely and monitored for effectiveness on a continuous basis. This website is a resource to help a producer choose the BMPs appropriate for their dairy or feedlot.*
