Annual/Termination Reports:

[01/15/2010] [05/06/2011] [10/03/2011] [04/28/2013] [11/13/2013] [10/01/2014]

Report Information

Participants

Karyn Malinowski, Rutgers University;
Brad Hillman (Project Advisor), Rutgers University;
Rebecca Bott, S. Dakota State University;
Daniel Gimenez, Rutgers University;
Stephen Komar, Rutgers University;
Carey Williams, Rutgers University;
Christopher Obropta, Rutgers University;
Nicole Fiorellino, University of Maryland;
Betsy Greene, University of Vermont;
Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota;
Ann Winker, Pennsylvania State University;
Jennifer Weld, Pennsylvania State University;
Natalie Trottier, Michigan State University;
Jill Stowe, University of Kentucky;
Michael Westendorf, Rutgers University

Brief Summary of Minutes

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

On Site:

Krishona Martinson-University of Minnesota;
Mike Westendorf-Rutgers University;
Carey Williams-Rutgers University;
Betsy Green-University of Vermont;
Ann Swinker-Penn State University;
Helene McKernan-Penn State University;
Amy Burke-University of Maryland;
Kathy Kook-graduate student with Rebecca Bott;
Rebecca Bott-South Dakota State University

Call in:

Carol France-Louisiana State University;
Natalie Trottier-Michigan State University;
Paul Siciliano-North Carolina State;
Brian LaBlanc-Louisiana State University;
Lacey Keating-Louisiana State University

Brief Summary of Minutes

Proceedings on August 25, 2010

Equine Center University of Minnesota

Jim Lynn, the University of Minnesota Department Head of Animal Science, came to the meeting to greet the group and give an introduction concerning the Equine Center and the history, development and current status of the equine department at the University of Minnesota.

• Explained the compost center housed at this facility. Committee members will be visiting this site later.
  
• Jim asked whether any representatives have an Equine Club not an Equestrian Club. Discussion followed. Rutgers, Vermont, & PSU all have individual Equine Clubs. Other committee members offered ideas, suggestions and groups that function within their University.

Stephanie Valberg, Director of Equine Center, from the University of Minnesota spoke to the group about the grassroots effort within the University to get the Equine Program developed within Animal Science. Through the supportive horse owners and donors the University was able to build the Equine Center and this center contributes to the veterinarian schools abilities in outreach, such as the addition of Sports Medicine and rehabilitation therapy. Stephanie gave an in-depth look into the history, challenges and the development that went into the new horse center and also commented on the importance of the new center enabling a comradeship between University groups, plus other groups such as the Racing Commission. This committee will have the opportunity to tour the facility.

For the August 26 and 27 proceedings, please click on the full minutes attached.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

In Attendance:

Betsy Greene (UVM)

Krishona Martinson (UMN)

Carey Williams (Rutgers)

Michael Westendorf (Rutgers)

Brian LeBlanc (LSU)

Neely Heidorn (LSU)

Laura Gladney (Rutgers)

Masoud Hashimi (UMass)

On Call:

Ann Swinker (Penn State)

Amy Burk (UMD)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Please open the Attachment for the meeting minutes.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

Confirmed Attendees:

• Betsy Greene, UVM (Mon-Thurs)
  
• Mike Westendorf, Rutgers (Arrive Mon PM, Leave Thurs AM)
  
• Carey Williams, Rutgers (Arrive Mon PM, Leave Thurs AM)
  
• Laura Gladney, Rutgers (Arrive Mon PM, Leave Thurs AM)
  
• Krishona Martinson, Univ. of Minnesota (Arrive Mon 2:30 PM, Leave Thurs 9:55 AM)
  
• Ann Swinker, Penn State (Arrive Mon 3:11 PM, Leave Tues 3:40 PM)
  
• Amy Burk, University of MD (Arrive Sun PM, Leave Tues PM)
  
• Rebecca Bott, South Dakota State University (Arrive Sun 10 PM, Leave Wed 5:32 PM)
  
• Masud Hashemi, Univ. of Massachusetts, (Arrive Mon PM, Leave Wed PM)
  
• Guest: Lisa Wojan, Veterinarian in CT (Arrive Sat, Leave Thurs PM)

Joining from distance:

• Paul Siciliano, Univ. North Carolina
  
• Nathalie Trottier, Michigan State University

Brief Summary of Minutes

Experiment Station Reports

South Dakota State University: Summary of Experiment Station, 2012

Rebecca Bott, Ph.D. 50% Extension, 45% Teaching, 5% Research

Efforts have included building a base of clientele for our Healthy Lands, Healthy Horses curriculum. We have obtained $95,000 in SARE funds to support community learning projects on five host properties for three years. Recently, we are working with the SD Realtors Association to offer CE credits for realtors who want to learn about marketing/managing small acreages. In a collaborative effort with the SDSU Ag Engineering Department we have obtained funding to have students in equine and waste management classes design and implement manure composting demonstration plots which will later be used for Extension programming. Finally, I have coordinated our NE-1041 pasture review Production and environmental implications of equine grazing. I need your help with final revisions and contributions this week.

Masoud Hashemi, University of Massachussetts

Have grants for two pilot farms. One is the University Equine Center, and educational farm. One is the Blue Star Farm draft rescue, which is overstocked with 40 horses and flanked by 3 rivers with a stream running through the middle of the farm. Horses have access to all wetlands and the stream. Testing 6 sacrifice lots with different footing materials. Trying a new pasture management lot, Paddock Paradise system. The group discussed the racetrack setup as a rotational grazing method. Masoud is also installing a composter for a EPA 319 grant.

Carey Williams, Rutgers University

NRCS CIG grant- Create a 592 (Feed Management) Program for horses. Did full nutrition consults and pasture evaluations; majority of farms did not take recommendations for either feed or pasture. Farms may be mowing more. Offered to give some cost-sharing money but farmers wouldnt put in any effort to make arrangements for lime applications. The group discussed compliance- may need to charge farmers for this service so they take it seriously.

Mike Westendorf, Rutgers University

Working on horse manure analysis using NIR. Looking at predictions for GE, NDF, BTU values, ash values. Anaerobic digester on horse farm (BioBeetle). Using straw bedding, hard to chop for digester. Streufex would work better but not widely used. Learn about anaerobic digestion at the EPA AgStar Program website (http://www.epa.gov/agstar/anaerobic/faq.html). Starting work on an Equine Environmental Stewardship Program, more intensive than Dairy of Distinction. Should look at HEAP program in CT (Jennifer Nadeau) and NTBA National Environmental Stewardship Awards. Vermont also trying a similar program including farm management and inspections.

Ann Swinker, Pennsylvania State University

Implementing and Marketing Environmental Stewardship on Small Farms program, partnered with NRCS. Four-day short course for horse farmers, good response and impact.

Compost Discussion

Secretary of Agriculture Chuck Ross, [title] Cary [last name], Sid Bosworth, and [???] joined the group for a discussion on the recent herbicide in compost problem. Mike Tetreault from Poulin Grain conference called in as well. Recap:

• There has been herbicide exposure in home gardens; vegetable plants dying after compost applied.
  
• Chittenden Solid Waste District tested compost samples and found clopyralid and picloram in compost. Grass clippings and horse manure tested positive for these chemicals
  
• Horse farmers have done nothing wrong; most times they have manure shipped off farm and dont know where it ends up. Some of these herbicides have pasture and hay uses.
  
• Bedding, hay, horse grain could all be sources of the chemicals; Purina grain tested positive and mentioned in news clip
  
• CSWD recently moved and started new composting practices- faster composting times could not break down chemicals completely. Composting could be amplifying chemicals as contents are concentrated.
  
• Why hasnt this come up in other states? Horse manure not being tested; being disposed of in different ways; centralized compost facilities not being used
  
• No human or horse health issues
  
• In middle of investigation, press is jumping to conclusions when none exist yet

Resume State Reports

Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota

Pasture Evaluation Program: costs $650 for a farm eval. Includes pasture, forage, soil samples; 2 visits from specialist, facilities assessment. Last year had 20 farms participate. Farms can also pay $300 for a maintenance visit once per year after doing the full program. Krishona passed around a notebook made for one of the farms. Program was advertised in e-newsletter and Facebook. Grazing muzzle trial: used two preferred grasses (bluegrass, prostrate and fescue, upright) and two non-preferred grasses (ryegrass, prostrate and reed canarygrass, upright) and measured available forage before and after. If using a grazing muzzle, the type of grass makes a huge difference in how much forage the horse will consume. Mixture Trial.

Paul Siciliano, North Carolina State University

Working on refining methods for predicting pasture DMI and regulation of pasture intake.

Laura Gladney, Rutgers University

Masters project will compare effects of rotational and continuous grazing on pasture health, soil quality, horse health, and economic benefits. SARE Graduate Student Grant did not fund. Hoping next years CIG grants will allow use of state lands. Group discussed methods for estimating available forage and pasture mixes.

Department Chair Dr. Andre Wright and Dairy Extension Specialist Julie Smith joined us for lunch.

NE 1041 Rewrite: We should finish by the end of our project in 2014 (every 5 years).

Review Articles: Articles with not enough science could be submitted to Journal of NACAA

• Pasture article: JEVS? Group spent some time incorporating several members edits into this paper. Needs some more input, will set up conference calls to finish. Hope to submit by Oct 1.
  
• Manure paper: Mike Westendorf will send this out.
  
• theHorse.com: Wants regular articles on research (not Extension-type). Carey Williams and Mike Westendorf will do the first article on their nitrogen and phosphorus work.
  
• Publications for NE1041 report: Include peer reviewed and non (Extension pieces and newsletter articles). Emphasis on peer-reviewed.

ESS Workshop: Group wants to host a symposium at 2014 ESS on pasture topics.
Must coordinate; most members cannot do both ASAS and ESS in same year. Could also try to get a keynote speaker separately, perhaps a livestock grazing expert to bridge the gap between livestock pasture research and equine. Workshop could cover pasture research techniques, then we can be consistent between livestock and equine forage research. Krishona Martinson will ask Production and Management Committee Chair. Perhaps propose someone as a keynote speaker (which is paid for) and hope for a workshop. Group decided to have a conference call about this by October 1.

Funding Sources:

• Ann Swinker uses Chesapeake Bay Trust grant, Fisheries and Wildlife, and NRCS CIG
  
• We need research on sacrifice lots and best management practices- EPA?
  
• It was suggested to contact watershed groups for funding
  
• Suggested funding for Laura Gladneys rotational grazing project: SARE Teaching and Research, CIG, USDA NIFA Rangeland Program
  
• Mike Westendorf helps NRCS by writing Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans for some funding
  
• Krishona Martinson gets some handle money, uses Quarter Horse, Horse Council. Ideas: fertilizer check-off, Craig Shaeffer, fee-based seed companies. Also mentioned a retirement farm in Minnesota that takes all service horses (including research horses) from any state.
  
• National CIG grant will have same restrictions as state grants.

Group Leadership: Mike Westendorf suggested someone new take over the group. Duties include coordinating yearly meeting, getting USDA approval, and at least 2 conference calls per year. Also be careful not to overlap annual meetings within the same fiscal year. No one volunteered to take over. Mike said he is willing to continue providing leadership but wants to make sure we keep our direction fresh.

August 15, 2012: Group visited UVM horse farm and learned how cooperative students take care of their own horses during the school year plus some University-owned horses for Equus group to use on weekends. We saw heavy use pads in pastures.

The tours second stop was the UVM Morgan Horse Farm where Director Steve Davis explained the history of the farm and gave us a tour. We watched him work some young horses and met the years raffle foal UVM Uphold.

The third stop was Triple Combination Farm, where co-founder Chris Armstrong gave us a tour of the farm and explained the best management practices she has utilized, including rotational grazing and heavy use pads. She has worked closely with Betsy Greene to learn about these practices.

The final stop on the tour was Cedar Spring Farm, a large Morgan farm.

In the afternoon, NE1041 members Betsy Greene, Carey Williams, Mike Westendorf, and Krishona Martinson plus veterinarian Lisa Wojek traveled to Tamarack Farm to visit with Denny Emersons adult day camp. After watching some dressage instruction and viewing the farm, the group visited the historic Justin Smith Morrill homestead and returned to the farm for dinner and brief presentations. Mike Westendorf discussed the compost contamination issue, Krishona Martinson discussed a case of alsike clover photosensitization recently featured in the news and quizzed campers on pasture weed identification, Laura Gladney discussed soil and forage testing and how to read test results, and Carey Williams discussed common supplements fed to performance horses. The campers appreciated the presentations and had plenty of questions.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

In attendance:
Martinson Krishona (krishona@umn.edu) - U. Minnesota
Williams, Carey (cwilliams@aesop.rutgers.edu) - Rutgers
Westendorf, Michael (westendorf@aesop.rutgers.edu) - Rutgers
Gladney, Laura (gladney@AESOP.Rutgers.edu) - Rutgers
Hashimi, Masoud (masoud@psis.umass.edu) - U. Mass
Urrichio, Cassie (curicchio@umass.edu) - U. Mass
Burk, Amy (amyburk@umd.edu) - U. Maryland
Swinker, Ann (aswinker@gmail.com) - Penn. State
Foulk, Donna (dlf5@psu.edu) - Penn. State
McKernan, Helene (hbm10@psu.edu) - Penn. State
Greene, Betsy (Betsy.Greene@uvm.edu - U. of Vermont


Call-in:
Trottier, Nathalie (trottier@msu.edu) - Michigan State
Bott, Rebecca (Rebecca.Bott@sdstate.edu) - South Dakota State
Siciliano, Paul (paul_siciliano@ncsu.edu) - North Carolina State

Brief Summary of Minutes

Monday, August 12, 2013
NE 1041
Environmental Impacts of Equine Operations Annual Meeting
Host Location: Penn State


Penn State Animal Science Building, State College, PA


In attendance: On Call:
Betsy Greene (UVM) Rebecca Bott (SDSU)
Krishona Martinson (UMN) Nathalie Trottier (MSU)
Carey Williams (Rutgers) Paul Siciliano (NCSU)
Michael Westendorf (Rutgers)
Laura Gladney (Rutgers)
Masoud Hashimi (UMass)
Cassie Urrichio (UMass)
Amy Burk (UMD)
Ann Swinker (PSU)
Donna Foulk (PSU)
Helene McKernan (PSU)


Mike Westendorf, Introduction


" Discussed goals of the project
" List of participants on website:
http://nimss.umd.edu
Want to reach out to some other people
" 5 Objectives of the Project:
1. Better quantify feeding, management, and stored manure characteristics on horse farms in order to determine effects on soil, water, and air
2. Evaluate existing data and conduct research to better quantify environmental impacts soil related to equine operations.
3. Evaluate existing data and conduct research to better quantify environmental impacts on water quality measures related to equine operations.
4. Evaluate existing data and conduct research to better quantify environmental impacts on air quality related to equine operations.
5. Integrate knowledge gained from the data into a system model to help improve best management practices on equine operations.
" For the final report, we need to keep within the framework of these objectives.
" Project Goals: Paper reviews (N paper, horse manure, regulations)
" Potential presence at Waste to Worth conference in WA in 2015
" eXtension components- work with HorseQuest
" Final report/rewrite- what will each institution contribute?


State Reports


Mike Westendorf, Rutgers University
" Anaerobic Digestion
" This project is complete- one year of digesting
" Horse farms need to know where to get rid of their manure! Most do not see it as a resource and want to dispose of it off-farm.
" Spectrum BioEnergy built a small anaerobic digester that should help with:
1. Manure management
2. Renewable energy
3. Odor management
4. Reducing groundwater contamination
" The hosting horse farm will not keep it, considering moving it to RU. Could be costly.
" Results: Found that energy output was much lower than predicted. Straw particle size too large. No difference with Woody Pet. Straight manure has plenty of energy but adding bedding reduces output. The machine is not worth the cost for small farms.
" Composting Project
1. 4 experimental plots: 2 concrete, 2 earthen, each with a drain to catch leachate
2. Piles tested covered and uncovered
3. Helene mentioned that PA is pushing to cover all manure piles without knowing the difference
4. Mike also has existing compost windrows on compacted earth
5. Goal is to develop compost technology for small farmers, possibly through an online short course and more research (on pile size, runoff, etc)
" Energy (NIR)
1. Ground horse manure (fine and course) and ran NIR
2. Found that ash is a good predictor of gross energy
3. Considering applying for a CIG grant: horse manure to produce combustible energy
4. Currently mushroom farmers pay about $75 for 30ft3 of long stem straw only. Small horse farmers need options for other bedding products

Laura Gladney and Carey Williams, Rutgers University
" Effects of Rotational Vs. Continuous Grazing Systems for Horses on Environmental Quality, Animal Health, and Production Cost
" Plan to look at plant production (vegetative cover, species composition, forage yield, forage quality)
" Soil quality (soil fertility, water infiltration, soil compaction)
" Horse health (body weight, body condition score, percent body fat, voluntary movement)
" Production costs based on costs to maintain pastures and feed extra hay when pasture is too low to graze
" Grazing was supposed to start this fall but pastures need more work. Should start Spring 2014.
" Mike suggested looking at C sequestration, someone suggested looking at manure distribution with GPS, several people suggested switching the horses quarterly for better statistics.


Masoud Hashemi and Cassie Urrichio, University of Massachussetts
" Continuing work on BMP implementation on 2 horse farms. Goal is to reduce risk of non-point source pollution, provide hands-on training
" Hadley Farm on UMass campus
" Installed 6 sacrifice areas with various footing materials
" Fence out from wetland drainage/streams
" Surface drainage/swales
" Pasture species demo. This was a popular idea and many people expressed interest in doing this as a weed/grass demo.
" Blue Star Farm- 501(c)3 rescue, 30-40 horses on 6 acres, surrounded by 3 rivers and streams through fields
" Paddock paradise system- use track as dry lot, encourage horses to move more by putting feed and water at different points on track. Owners say horses are moving and healthier. Inside fields are recovering and will be split into several smaller fields.
" Hay feeders to reduce waste
" Fence out stream
" Manure management- demonstration aerated compost bins. 6 months for finished compost. Also looking into biochar.
" Unfinished projects: reduce sediment runoff, grazing management, install gutters/downspouts

Dr. Etherton, Department Head
The group had a brief discussion about budgets, teaching animals and farms, and online classes at different institutions. PSU is lucky to have a President who is a farmer and ag support from the state government.

Nathalie Trottier, Michigan State University, Discussion on Nitrogen Paper
" Waiting for Anns contribution
" Confusion on GI section has been cleared up- needs to tie into the environmental aspects
" Beefing up the Impacts of Environment section- probably 1/3 of paper right now. Where proteins are located in plant (Krishona)
" Add reference for anatomy section
" N excretion is hard to predict due to the complex GI tract
" Also add: Where do we stand in research and where should we head? Nathalie suggested a multi state project testing BUN using different types of forages and concentrates. Donna is seeding some farms and could seed what is needed.
" September 16 deadline for new sections and edits discussed during meeting.


Rebecca Bott, South Dakota State University
" Working with equine immunology and reproduction
" Teaching: Minor in Equine Mgmt, 70 students
1. Integrating experiential learning into class
2. Student-managed compost
" Extension: 4-H activities, working with Native American Reservations, farrier apprenticeship program, environmental stewardship assistance
" Work on Pasture Review and Nitrogen papers

Betsy Greene, University of Vermont
" Update on horse compost issue- paper published in NACAA
" The issue continues, Green Mountain is suing the insurance company
" May see some labeling changes on pesticides
" Wood chips also had pesticide residues
" Donna saw a soybean field killed by herbicide residue in horse compost
" Krishona saw foals born deformed after dam ate ditch hay treated with clopyralid
" Grazing and high traffic area workshops


Paul Siciliano, North Carolina State University
" Work on dry matter intake using herbage mass difference
" Advice for those using this method:
1. Use larger plots
2. Grazing cells must be uniform in sward height and plant density. He found 5-10% underestimates when using subplots.
3. Size of cells- if too small, the horses eat everything and actually have limited intake. Horses should remove 50-75% in 4-24 hours.
4. If cells are fenced with electric tape, horses wont graze to edges. Make plots slightly larger- 4 border between plots with fence in the middle.
5. Does not recommend using post-grazing subplots to predict the whole plot- just mow the whole plot
6. With the horses disturbing the ground, the mower sucks up extra material and can affect ash content. Should be expressed on organic matter basis, not DM.
" How does sward height/herbage mass affect DM intake? Number of hours grazing, use a prediction curve
" Horses will lose weight if grass is too tall and mature- they will trample it and not eat it
" Discussion on how overconditioned horses should be grazing taller grass (8-10) because that stand will be less dense, and the carbs are stored in the bottom 2-3 of the grass plants. Veterinarians are suggesting the opposite for metabolic horses and causing more problems.
" Discussion on what is too high for NSC? The shorter plants have 15-20% NSC, 2/3 of which are simple sugars. 12% has been put out as the magic number but where did that come from?


Special Presentation from Dr. Eileen Wheeler, Penn State University
" Ag Engineering, looking at Emissions on Horse Farms
" Powerpoint available
" Recent projects include Reducing Ammonia Emissions from Poultry Houses by Enhanced Manure and Diet Management; Reducing Ammonia Emissions from Dairy Farms: Evaluating Whole Farm Strategies; Field Olfactometry for Quantifying and Targeting Agricultural Odor Control; Odor Emissions of Dairy Diet and Manure Additives; and Detection of Important Respiratory Irritants in Equine Facilities (among others). Found that horses are exposed to more dust in stable than indoor riding arena.
" Provided several publications, including Horse Manure Characteristics Literature and Database Review; American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers Manure Production and Characteristics; Horse Stable Ventilation; and Horse Stable Manure Management.
" Provided a list of Horse Stable and Riding Arena Resources
" Discussion on measuring air quality in horse barns using different equipment. Mike and Carey have done a project looking at air ammonia levels in horses fed diets with varying N. Possible multi-state project if everyone uses same methodology and commercial feeds. Some tools are quite inexpensive.


Nathalie Trottier, Michigan State University
" PPID (Cushings) Project
1. 15 horses, half Cushings and half normal, same age
2. Aim 1- grade and confirm Cushings. Horses had difficulty maintaining weight and utilizing feed.
§ All horses subjected to glucose challenge test, then euthanized. Muscle tissue collected, liver weighed
" Aim 2- Took images of jejunum, duodenum, measured villi
1. Found that Cushings horses had shorter villi
" Aim 3- Lysine and glucose transport across small intestine apical membrane brush border membrane
" Aim 4- Future- Correlate gene expression for lysine/glucose transport
" Published Adriennes work- Differential uptake of glucose and lysine in horses and pigs. 2 papers published in JAS and JEVS
1. Glucose and lysine uptake across small and large intestine
" Gastrin and cribbing project with Carissa Wickens


Donna Foulk, Penn State University
" Powerpoint available
" Equine Stewardship Short Course
1. 4-part program, homework between classes
2. Participants learn about pasture productivity, plant canopy, soil testing, forage species, managing weeds, pasture management, water quality, manure, and nutrient management regulations.
3. Successful course, ~700 farm managers completed in PA and NY
" SARE Environmental Stewardship Grant
1. BMPs on farms to improve pastures, reduce nutrient/sediment loss, reduce overfeeding
2. Calculate sediment savings with RUSLE2
3. Worked with NRCS for cost-sharing on stress lots, developed rotational grazing plans, pasture management plans, and ration evaluation on most farms
4. Purchased no-till drill
" Developed Equine Pasture Evaluation Disc method- no statistical difference with NRCS methods
" Writing manure management plans- ALL livestock owners in PA must have one now
1. Developed educational materials for educators, available on PA Nutrient Management website (in equine folder)
2. 22 meetings for 630 farm managers, 5 agency staff training workshops, 18 plan writing workshops
" CIG Implementing and Marketing Environmental Stewardship on Small Farms and Equine Operations
a. Increase availability of resources, investigate methods of increasing pasture productivity, create recognition program
b. Penn State Extension Environmentally Friendly Farm
i. Self-assessment, farm visit, assistance provided
" New Parasite Project
1. Parasites on pastures, control and management, fecal egg counts
" Handed out Pasture Condition Score Sheets and EPEDs


Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota
" Emergency Grazing study
1. Half of her plots were killed over the winter- on May 28, planted winter wheat, annual ryegrass, barley, spring wheat, and oat
2. Compared nutritive value, yield, preference
3. All had high NSC, maturity did not matter
4. Spring wheat good option- preferred and high yielding
" Reducing hay waste
1. Ongoing- comparing basket feeder, natural feeder, traditional
2. Dry hay before weighing
" Weeds and laminitis
1. Knotweeds can contain up to 60% carbs and be palatable
2. Prostrate weeds grow in compacted soils of drylots
" Legume grass pasture mix
1. Testing alfalfa, white clover, and birdsfoot trefoil with Kentucky bluegrass, orchardgrass, and meadow fescue
2. No chemical weed control!
" Equine Pasture Management Program
1. Impacts include clients feeding less hay and extending grazing season


Amy Burk, University of Maryland
" Rotational Site
1. 1 seminar, 4 events
2. Switched to broodmares
" Pasture events at Sagamore Farms, Hassler Dressage
" Passed around Horse Pasture Management Monthly Guide
" Applying for Fish and Wildlife Grant, MD CIG grant
" Farm Stewardship and Assessment
" Ag Certainty Program


Tuesday, August 13, 2013


Future Meetings


2014 Meeting: South Dakota, end of July
2015 Meeting: Maryland


Other Business- Reviews and Future Projects


" Manure Storage and Disposal review
" Literature Review used in this project application- submit to a journal? Needs more references
1. Mike will send to group
" Regulation Poster- turn into a paper and update
1. Journal of Environmental Engineering and Science?
2. Possibly include Eileen
3. Ann Swinker will take initiative on this
" Future Climate Project
1. Is anyone finding weeds/grasses in non-native areas? Could be a case study
2. Ann and Donna have both seen this. Include Bill Bamka (RU)?
" Nathalies BUN guidelines
1. Will wait for her to send around
" Future collaborative project on stall ammonia
1. Compare barns with different ventilation systems at different times of the year and across different states
2. Need easy to use equipment- Drager tubes are good- put them on horses? Barn workers? The tubes may not be sensitive enough in low ranges to have any value
3. Could test ammonia levels near compost piles
4. Funding: Human worker safety? Tie it in to human health, children getting asthma
" Soil erosion and heavy use areas
1. Hoof grid being used as a soil stabilizer- a plastic honeycomb like material. Only have to excavate 3 of soil as opposed to 12 for other heavy use pads. However, the whole area is likely going to be very compacted anyway, so excavating 12 might be a good thing.
2. How long will it last? How do we recommend this to clients without knowing? Betsys have lasted 10 years with only some stone dust additions required. Careys have lasted about 8 so far.
§ Also depends on slope, soil type, use, number of horses
3. Look into crabgrass as a forage grass for heavy use areas?
4. SARE might fund an erosion project, or EPA 319
§ Fixing water banks on existing major rivers and streams
" Manure Options for Small Operations
1. Maryland is exploring the centralizing composting center concept
2. CIG might work with compost equipment
3. Do landscapers want manure? Especially with the recent herbicide issues. Some landfills take it but prefer not to.
" Cassie and Masoud are considering trying the Pasture Paradise system at UMass
1. The track should be a minimum of 16 across. However narrow passageways encourage horses to walk more.
" Waste to Worth Conference 2015
1. Mike is involved through Livestock and Poultry Learning Center on eXtension
2. Washington State, time TBD but in April
" American Society of Animal Science workshops
1. Week of July 12
" American Forage and Grasslands Council Conference
1. GLCI
2. Not as much science
3. In Tennessee, 2nd week of January


Final Report and Rewrite


" Each station needs 3-5 page paper on what youve done over the last 5 years
1. Organized by study
" Mike will send out objectives
" Include publications, grants, abstracts, synopses
" Use your CRISS reports
" Deadline: December 1
" Rewrite- to continue this project
1. Add ammonia and worker safety objective
2. Erosion control objective
3. Manure storage
" Due in about 1 year
1. Each person can write a section, possibly put them together at a face to face meeting
" New people to invite:
1. Lori Warren
2. Bridgett McIntosh (Betsy will ask)
3. Mike will send instructions for how to get on the project
4. Should we remove the people who have never been active?

Accomplishments

Accomplishments by responding State<br /> <br /> 2013 NE1041 State Report Minnesota<br /> Prepared by Krishona Martinson<br /> <br /> Research Projects<br /> <br /> <br /> Yield, Preference, and Forage Nutritive Value of Annual Grasses under Horse Grazing. In 2013, many legume and grass hay fields and pastures in the upper-Midwest were affected by winter injury or kill, representing a significant problem for many livestock owners. Unfortunately, there is limited information available regarding emergency grazing options for horses. Spring planted annual grasses can serve as emergency forage, but have yet to be evaluated under horse grazing. The objectives of the study were to evaluate winter wheat (Triticum aestivum), annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), spring wheat (Triticum aestivum), and oat (Avena sativa) for preference, forage nutritive value and yield under horse grazing. Three adult horses grazed replicated plots containing all species for four hours at two different levels of maturity. Winter and spring wheat were the most preferred grasses with visual removal e71% (P < 0.001). Oat was least preferred with a visual removal of 9% (P < 0.001). Oat and spring wheat yielded the highest with e 4.8 t ha-1 (P < 0.001). Winter wheat yielded the least at 2.6 t ha-1. Forage nutritive value results are currently being summarized and analyzed. Spring wheat appears to be both preferred and high yielding and may represent a viable option for horse owners in need of an emergency pasture forage. <br /> <br /> <br /> Reducing Waste Associated with Outdoor Feeding of Small Square-Bales. Many experts agree that hay is the most expensive nutritional component in horse feeding, however, only two researchers have investigated hay losses associated with horse feeding, and none have investigated the waste of small square-bales fed outdoors. The objectives of this research are to determine hay waste, herd weight change, and economics of three different small square-bale feeder designs and a no-feeder control when used in horse feeding. Twelve mature horses will be used to form four groups of three horses each. Feeder designs to be evaluated include a hayrack, slat feeder, and basket feeder. Four outdoor, dirt paddocks will be used in a Latin square design. Horse groups will consume hay out of the feeders (or no-feeder control) for five consecutive days. The total amount of hay removed from around each feeder and the no-feeder control for the five-day period will be considered waste. After five days, horse groups will be rotated to a different paddock. Horses will be individually weighed at the start and end of each five day treatment period, and the sum of differences within a herd will be pen weight change. Economics will be determined by calculating the number of months the feeder took to repay its cost based on improved feeder efficiency over the no-feeder control. Researching ways to more efficiently feed small-square bales in outdoor paddocks will help to reduce hay waste and associated costs, and will have board appeal and application to all horse owners across the U.S. <br /> <br /> <br /> The Role of Prostrate Knotweed and Other Common Weeds as a Trigger for Laminitis in Horses Kept in Dry Lot Paddocks. Laminitis is a devastating, painful condition for horses, leading to losses in performance, increased veterinary costs, and even horse death. Diets high in carbohydrates are a known trigger for laminitis. Some of the most effective management tools for these horses are to limit their carbohydrate intake by testing forage for carbohydrate content, restricting amounts of feed to encourage weight loss, and confining to dry lots (i.e. dirt paddocks) in order to avoid access to pasture grasses that are commonly high in carbohydrates. Recently, researchers have recommended an over-all diet (hay and grain) of less than 12% non-structural carbohydrates for horses diagnosed with laminitis or equine metabolic syndrome. However, recent reports from horse owners indicate horses housed on dry lots are still experiencing recurring bouts of laminitis, despite being fed a low-carbohydrate diet. The hypothesis we aim to investigate is that weeds that commonly grow in dry lots may be both palatable to horses and high in carbohydrates; therefore, capable of triggering a laminitis episode. Ten farms in the Twin Cities Metro (MN) area will be enrolled in the project. Candidate farms must have at least one horse with a history of laminitis or equine metabolic syndrome that is on restricted pasture access and being turned out in a weedy dry lot. The owner must agree to provide access to the farm on three occasions (spring, summer and fall), to complete a short questionnaire, and sign a letter of agreement. At each visit, weeds in the dry lot will be identified. Prostrate knotweed and up to three additional common weeds (collected in order of prevalence) will be harvested, frozen, and later sent to a commercial laboratory for nutrient analysis. During each visit, horse(s) housed in the dry lot will be examined by the research veterinarian and a history will be collected. A body condition score (Henneke scale of 1-9) and weight (via equation) will be recorded as well as an examination and documentation (via photograph) of hooves. <br /> <br /> <br /> Legume-Grass Mixtures for Improved Horse Pastures. Cool-season perennial grasses are the foundation of productive horse pastures in the North Central U.S. Many farmers strive to add legumes to grass pastures to increase yield and forage nutritive components like crude protein and digestible energy. However, legume-grass mixtures are rarely evaluated under livestock grazing for nutritive value, yield, persistence and animal preference. In August 2012, four replicated small pastures consisting of twelve plots each were seeded. The pastures consist of three single grass sward plots: orchardgrass, Kentucky bluegrass and meadow fescue (controls). The remaining nine plots in each pasture consist of binary mixtures of the three grasses with three legumes: alfalfa, white clover and birdsfoot trefoil. Prior to grazing, forage yield and nutritive values will be determined. A 0.9 m x 3.7 m strip will be mechanically harvested from each plot to determine yield. A sub-sample will be dried, and total yield throughout the grazing season will be reported on a dry matter basis. To determine forage quality, a sub-sample will be hand-harvested to a 9 cm height from random and duplicate 0.25 m2 areas prior to grazing. Forage sub-samples will be dried and submitted for nutrient analysis. Forage populations will also be determined by separating and weighing the hand-harvested samples into grasses, legumes and weeds. Four horses will be placed on each replicate for four hours, switching to the next replicate each subsequent day for four days, until the horses have grazed all four replicates. Upon rotation of horses, pastures will be visually assessed for removal (to determine preference) on a scale of 0 (no grazing activity) to 100 (100% of the plants were grazed down to 9 cm). After each grazing event, manure will be removed and pastures will be mowed to 9 cm and allowed to re-grow for approximately 3 weeks. <br /> <br /> Funding<br /> $2,874. Midwest Forage Association. Legume-Grass Mixtures for Improved Horse Pastures. K. Martinson PI<br /> <br /> $6,568. Minnesota Horse Council. The Role of Prostrate Knotweed and Other Common Weeds as Trigger for Laminitis in Horses Kept in Drylots. K. Martinson PI<br /> <br /> $20,260. American Quarter Horse Foundation. Reducing Waste Associated with Outdoor Feeding of Small Square-Bales. K. Martinson PI<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> South Dakota State University<br /> Summary of Experiment Station, 2013<br /> <br /> Administration & Faculty:<br /> Barry Dunn, Ph.D., Dean of College of Agriculture and Biological Science<br /> Daniel Scholl, Ph.D., DVM, Experiment Station Director<br /> Joe Cassady, Ph.D., Head of Animal Science effective June, 2013<br /> Rebecca Bott, Ph.D. 45% Teaching, 50% Extension, 5% AES<br /> Jen Eide, B.S. Horse Unit Manager<br /> <br /> <br /> Teaching: We offer a minor in Equine Management with a diverse curriculum of 1 3courses. Currently, 70 undergraduate students are working towards their minor. Horses are a close second behind beef cattle in terms of student interest in the department of Animal Science. Our instruction entails everything from breeding and foaling to training, feeding, shoeing, etc. During the past year, we integrated an experiential learning opportunity into two classes for students to learn about manure management and gain experience with composting.<br /> Horse Herd: We currently have 45-50 horses including Quarter Horses and Thoroughbreds.<br /> <br /> <br /> Extension: Extension efforts focused on youth include programmatic development of Youth HORSE Training for 4-H, FFA CDE s, leadership for the 4-H Horse Committee and Western National Roundup, as well as with the American Youth Horse Council. Efforts focused on adult education include outreach to Native American Reservations with farrier apprenticeships having been developed as a result of a needs assessment. Additional programmatic efforts include working with people on small acreages to help them become better stewards of both horses and the environment.<br /> <br /> <br /> Research: Ongoing research efforts in the SDSU equine program include investigating leukocyte phenotype in the neonatal foal and development of immune function. Additional research in the areas of reservation equine welfare, and youth performance in 4-H events is underway.<br /> <br /> <br /> Collaboration and Scholarly Activity relevant to NE-1041: The majority of my contribution to NE-1041 this year was focused on finalizing our Pasture Review, which can now be found online at JEVS. Thank you to everyone for all of your patience and contributions towards making this happen! Nathalie Trottier (MSU) has produced an excellent review on nitrogen digestion and utilization. I have been assisting in coordinating the team to address the environmental implications of nitrogen in horse diets. <br /> <br /> <br /> NE-1041:2013 Report from Rutgers University<br /> Michael Westendorf<br /> <br /> <br /> Abstract: <br /> Surveys of New Jersey equine groups indicate that the primary manure management concern is disposal; this refers to off-site disposal since most do not have adequate land for spreading. Rutgers University has several research programs to help equine farmers manage and dispose of horse manure.<br /> <br /> <br /> A pilot project was completed during 2012-2013 with a local bioenergy company, Spectrum Bioenergy, to demonstrate the use of a modular anaerobic digester for disposal of horse manure. This was sited on a local horse farm. Horse manure bedded with straw was collected, ground, and added into the digester. Measurements were taken for gas (carbon dioxide and methane), pH, and temperature. It was estimated prior to the project that straw bedded horse manure should produce approximately 40 cubic meters of methane gas per day, equal to about 124 kWh. The digester was seeded with liquid dairy manure, initially fed with horse feed grain, and slowly straw-bedded horse manure was added to the digester. Straw-bedded manure had a longer particle size than the digester could utilize. Different grinds were attempted with only marginal improvements. Horse manure bedded with wood pellets was also fed into the machine. This mixture digested much better, but gas production was still low. Throughout a 4 month period, the feeding rate for the machine was never more than 100 pounds per day. Gas production averaged about 5 cubic meters per day with a slight increase during the final portion of the project when wood pellets were used as the bedding source. Although the wood pellet has a finer particle size, the high levels of lignin and cellulose will slow the rate of digestion; straw will need a finer particle size to be useful. Because this was a pilot project regulatory constraints prohibited the use of co-products such as food waste. Results are being summarized and plans for follow-up considered.<br /> <br /> <br /> A composting site has been established on the Rutgers University campus. This is designed to compost all horse manure, dairy manure, and small ruminant manure produced. This was undertaken to enable the farm to dispose of manure off campus; this was required because of high phosphorus levels on the farm cropland. In the past three years no manure has been spread on farm cropland, it has been sold or given away locally. (This is all the composted manure and bedding from over 100 animal units). In addition, we have constructed 4 composting research pads, two dirt bases and two concrete bases. These will allow us to complete compost research related to runoff from compost piles, covering piles, turning frequency, and the use of a grass buffer system around the pile. This research will provide the basis for recommendations to local farmers about storage and disposable options.<br /> <br /> <br /> Horse manure has energy content that compares with that from other species. The addition of high levels of bedding increases the carbon energy content of manure. Previous analysis has indicated that horse manure (with bedding added) averages approximately 4,000 kcal/gram and over 7,000 BTU/lb. Horse manure may have potential for other technologies such as gasification or combustion. Using Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR) it is possible to predict nutrient content of horse manure. Near Infrared analysis predicted the gross energy value of fine ground horse manure and course ground horse manure (>100 samples), .90 R-squared and .87 R-squared, respectively. Ash content was also a good predictor of energy content, .96 R-squared. Having demonstrated the energy content of horse manure and two methods for relatively quick analysis, our next goal is to determine its combustion value and potential for widespread use.<br /> <br /> <br /> Rutgers University, Carey Williams and Laura Gladney<br /> <br /> Effects of Rotational Vs Continuous Grazing Systems for Horses on Environmental Quality, Animal Health, and Production Cost<br /> <br /> Abstract: <br /> This project will measure the effect of grazing system on plant production, soil quality, animal health, and production costs by grazing horses in a continuous or rotational grazing system for two years. Plant production will be measured by vegetative cover, species composition, yield and forage quality. Soil quality will be measured by soil fertility, bulk density, and water infiltration. Horse health will be measured by body weight, body condition score, percent body fat, and voluntary movement. The economics will be analyzed by comparing production/maintenance and extra feed costs. An outreach component will ensure that results are made available to stakeholders.<br /> <br /> <br /> Plant Measurements:<br /> 1. Vegetative Cover, M (Step Point Method)<br /> 2. Species Composition, M (Step Point Method)<br /> 3. Forage Yield, M (Rising/Falling Plate Meter)<br /> 4. Forage Quality, Q (Equi Analytical)<br /> <br /> Soil Measurements:<br /> 1. Soil Fertility, (Rutgers Soil Testing Lab)<br /> 2. Soil Water Infiltration, (Tension or Mini Infiltrometer)<br /> 3. Soil Compaction, (Electronic Penetrometer)<br /> <br /> Horse Measurements:<br /> 1. Body Weight, (Electronic Scale)<br /> 2. Body Condition, (Henneke Method)<br /> 3. Percent Body Fat, (Ultrasound)<br /> 4. Voluntary Movement, (GPS)<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Michigan State University - Nathalie Trottier<br /> <br /> Objective 1: Determine the impact of pituitary pars intermediate dysfunction (PPID) on the utilization of amino acids and glucose by intestinal and muscle cells.<br /> Aim 1: Grade the level of PPID and confirm that PPID horses selected are insulin resistant<br /> * Ran all glucose and insulin analysis<br /> * Need to run the kinetics (glucose clearance rates, etc.).<br /> Aim 2: Determine whether PPID decreases the integrity of the small intestinal mucosa.<br /> * Preliminary findings: Villi height and depth decreases in the duodenum and jejunum<br /> * Aim 3: Determine whether PPID decreases lysine and glucose transport across all intestinal apical membrane.<br /> * Preparing the brush border membrane<br /> Aim 4: Determine the expression genes that encode for lysine and glucose transport in intestinal and muscle tissue<br /> * This fall<br /> <br /> Objective 2: Determine the differential uptake of glucose and lysine across the small and large intestine in horses and pigs.<br /> * Two papers published, one in JAS and one in JEVS<br /> <br /> Objective 3: Determine whether gastrin contributes to the etiology of Cribbing in horses<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

Publications

1. Allen, E., C. Sheaffer, K. Martinson. 2012. Yield and Persistence of Cool-Season Grasses Under Horse Grazing. Agronomy Journal. 104: 1741 1746.<br /> <br /> <br /> 2. Allen, E., C. Sheaffer, K. Martinson. 2013. Forage Nutritive Value and Preference of Cool-Season Grasses Under Horse Grazing. Agronomy Journal. 105: 679-684.<br /> <br /> <br /> 3. Bott RC, Cortus EL. Developing compost management skills through experiential learning. J. Equine Veterinary Science. Vol. 33, Issue 5, Pages 388-89.<br /> <br /> <br /> 4. Bott RC, Greene E, Koch K, Martinson K, Siciliano P, Williams C, Burk A, Trottier N, Swinker A. Environmental Impacts of Grazing Horses: A Review. (J. Equine Veterinary Science, Accepted, 2013).<br /> <br /> <br /> 5. Bott, R.C., E.A. Greene, K. Koch, K.L. Martinson, P.D. Siciliano, C. Williams, N. Trottier, A. Burk, and A. Swinker. Production and environmental implications of equine grazing. <br /> <br /> <br /> 6. Earing, J., Martinson, K., Lamb, J. and Sheaffer, C. 2012. Fertilizing Horse Pastures and Hay Fields. 4 pages. University of Minnesota Extension Factsheet.<br /> <br /> <br /> 7. Greene EA, Bott RC, Giguere C, Martinson KL, and Swinker AM. Anatomy of a Contaminated Compost Case Study and a Land Grant University Still Functioning as Intended. Abstract presented at the 2013 Hawaii International Conference on Education Meetings.<br /> <br /> <br /> 8. Greene, E.A, R.C. Bott, C. Giguere, K.L. Martinson, and A. Swinker. 2013. Vermont Horses vs. Twisted Tomatoes: A Compost Case Study. Journal of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. Vol 6; Issue 1. Available online at http://www.nacaa.com/journal.<br /> <br /> <br /> 9. Greene EA, Bott RC, Giguere C, Martinson KL, Swinker A. Vermont Horses vs. Twisted Tomatoes: A Case Study. Journal of the NACAA. 2013 Vol 6, Issue 1.<br /> <br /> <br /> 10. Hubert MB, Bott RC, Gates RN, Nester PN. Understanding, Engaging, and Educating Small Acreage Owners in South Dakota. Journal of the NACAA. 2013 Vol 6, Issue 1.<br /> <br /> <br /> 11. Komar, S., R. Miskewitz, M. Westendorf, and C. A. Williams. 2012. Effects of Bedding Type on Compost Quality of Equine Stall Waste. Journal of Animal Science. 90:1069-1075.<br /> <br /> <br /> 12. Martinson, K. and Sheaffer, C. 2013. Cool-Season Perennial Grasses for Horse Pastures. University of Minnesota Extension Factsheet.<br /> <br /> <br /> 13. Martinson, K.L. and C.C. Sheaffer. 2013. Preference of twelve perennial grass pasture mixtures under horse grazing. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 33; pg. 356.<br /> <br /> <br /> 14. Martinson, K.M, J.E. Earing, J.A. Lamb, C.C. Sheaffer. 2013. University of Minnesota Equine Pasture Management Program. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 33; pgs. 387-388.<br /> <br /> <br /> 15. Privatsky, S.L, J.E. Earing, J.A. Lamb, C.C. Sheaffer and K.L. Martinson. 2013. Pasture best management practices on horse farms in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 33; pg. 398-399.<br /> <br /> <br /> 16. Westendorf, M. L. and C. Williams. 2013. Effects of Excess Dietary Phosphorus on Fecal Phosphorus Excretion and Water Extractable Phosphorus in Horses. Animal Feed Science and Technology. Submitted for Publication.<br /> 17. Westendorf, M. L., V. Puduri, C. Williams, T. Joshua, and R. Govindasamy. 2013. Dietary and Manure Management Practices on Equine Farms in Two New Jersey Watersheds. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. In Press.<br /> <br /> <br /> 18. Westendorf, M.L., C. Williams, A.O. Burk, N. Trottier, K. Martinson, P. D.Siciliano, A. M. Swinker, E. A. Greene, and R. Bott. June, 2012. Environmental Impacts of Equine Operations: A USDA Multi-State Project. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. Volume 32(6): 324-326.<br />

Impact Statements

1. A Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) analyzer was calibrated to predict nutrient content (N, P, K, GE) of horse manure. NIRS predicted the gross energy value of horse (>100 samples, .90 R-squared). Ash content was also a good predictor of energy content, .96 R-squared. Having demonstrated the nutrient/energy content of horse manure the next step is to use this technique to assist farmers in analysis of horse manure for use in manure spreading programs and for possible use as an energy source.
2. The U. of Massachusetts continues work on BMP implementation; the goal is to reduce risk of non-point source pollution by providing hands-on training. They have installed sacrifice areas, fenced out wetlands, installed surface drainage, and developed a pasture species demonstration for public education. Also being studied is a paddock paradise system, a track is used as a dry lot, and horses receive feed/water at different points on track, owners say horses get more exercise and are healthier.
3. The NE-1041 team has presented project data at extension meetings held in conjunction with annual project meetings. These have taken place in Minneapolis,, MN, Burlington, VT, and State College, PA. Speakers at these meetings have been Krishona Martinson, Carey Williams, Amy Burk, Ann Swinker, Betsy Green, and Mike Westendorf. Over 100 farmer/producers have attended these meetings. We will continue these at our annual meetings and hopefully add a remote educational link in the future.
4. Penn State University has developed an Equine Stewardship Short Course. It is a 4-part program, with homework assignments between classes. Participants learn about pasture productivity, plant canopy, soil testing, forage species, managing weeds, pasture management, water quality, manure, and nutrient management regulations. It is a successful course, ~700 farm managers completed in PA and NY.
5. Penn State University and Rutgers University have been involved in separate educational programs to educate farmers about proper manure management procedures and how to develop nutrient management plans. Over 1,000 plans have been developed as a result of these efforts. Involved in these have been Michael Westendorf and Laura Gladney at Rutgers University and Ann Swinker and Donna Foulk at Penn State University.
6. Eileen Wheeler from Penn State University presented recent projects about odor and emissions on livestock farms. Respiratory Irritants were detected in and around equine facilities. Horses are exposed to more dust in stables than indoor riding arenas; this may have an influence upon dust and ammonia management strategies in stable areas.
7. The NE-1041 project cooperates with eXtension Communities of Practice (COPs) the Livestock Poultry Environmental Learning Center (LPELC) and HorseQuest. We have provided content to these groups and will continue. In April of 2013, three papers were presented at the LPELC Waste to Worth Conference held in Colorado. We have plans to do the same at the next Waste to Worth meeting in 2015 where we will sponsor an equine environmental program (talks, abstracts, tours, etc.) for attendees.

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Report Information

Participants

Betsy Greene (University of Vermont);
Carey Williams (Rutgers);
Michael Westendorf (Rutgers);
Laura Kenny (Rutgers);
Ann Swinker (Pennsylvania State University);
Rebecca Bott (South Dakota State University);
Erin Cortus (South Dakota State University);
Krishona Martinson (University of Minnesota);
Rebecca Splan (Virginia Tech University);
Bridgett McIntosh (Virginia Tech University);
Sarah Tanner (South Dakota State University);

Online Attendees: Carissa Wickens (University of Florida) and
Paul Siciliano (North Carolina State University)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Meeting Minutes Attached

Accomplishments

Short Term Outcomes:<br /> <br>• Equine Environmental Stewardship Short Course (Pennsylvania State University)<br /> <br>• Completion of Rutgers University Compost Certification Online Course<br /> <br>• Stable Management and Animal Waste Management Classes (South Dakota University)<br /> <br>• Manurepalooza 2014 (University of Florida)<br /> <br>• Minnesota, North Carolina, Virginia Tech. and Rutgers Grazing Research Trials<br /> <br>• Updating waste management regs. in Vermont<br /> <br /> <p>Outputs:<br /> <br>• Development of Equine Pasture Evaluation Disc to Document Pasture Quality(Pennsylvania State University)<br /> <br>• Environmentally Friendly Farm Program (Pennsylvania State University)<br /> <br>• Gold Medal Environmental Stewardship Program (Rutgers University)<br /> <br /> <p>Activities:<br /> Cooperative work between all participants in grazing research<br /> Compost management work between Rutgers, University of Massachusetts, University of Florida, and South Dakota State University

Publications

This is only an incomplete list. A more complete list will follow with the final project report.<br /> <br /> Westendorf, M. L., V. Puduri, C. Williams, T. Joshua, and R. Govindasamy. 2013. Dietary and Manure Management Practices on Equine Farms in Two New Jersey Watersheds. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 33:601-606.<br /> <br /> Bott, R.C., E.A. Greene, K. Koch, K.L. Martinson, P.D. Siciliano, C. Williams, N. Trottier, A. Burk, and A. Swinker. 2013. “Production and environmental implications of equine grazing.” JEVS. In Press<br /> <br /> Greene, E.A., R.C. Bott, C. Giguere, K.L. Martinson, and A.W. Swinker. 2013. “Vermont Horses vs. Twisted Tomatoes: A Compost Case Study. J of NACAA. 6:1<br />

Impact Statements

1. Compost management: Improved understanding of compost technologies for horse manure and the production of a compost course for uses by on-farm composters.
2. The promotion and adoption of heavy use area pads in sacrifice or resting lots are being adopted by producers because some of the work completed.
3. Producers have more and better choices in hay feeder design for the reduction of waste in feeding areas.
4. Pasture research with different management schemes and grass mixes is giving producers more and better options for different management.

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