Profitability in cattle feeding depends on more than just cattle prices and performance. More than ever, manure value, market flexibility and management impact net returns to the operation. Beef producers may see manure as a double-edged sword. While cattle manure provides nutrients needed to produce feed for the cattle, it also has several challenges that need to be managed.

Iowa State University Extension beef specialist Denise Schwab is coordinating a late-summer conference that will address a variety of topics related to cattle manure. The meeting is Aug. 25 at Buzzy’s in Welton, from 9:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

“The initial focus of this conference will be safety related to manure management and distribution,” Schwab says. “Numerous deaths have been attributed to hydrogen sulfide asphyxiation during manure agitation and pumping, and last October several incidents of cattle losses triggered additional concerns but fortunately no human deaths.”

Care, safety and management of animals
While manure produces four main gases, hydrogen sulfide is considered the most dangerous because it is highly toxic and is released quickly during agitation and pumping. It can increase from 5 parts per million to 500 ppm in a matter of seconds after agitation, she says. “Levels in the 500 to 600 ppm range can be lethal in as little as one or two breaths. While hydrogen sulfide is a major concern with liquid manure, dry manure has its own set of challenges to manage. This conference will focus on safety of both.”

ISU Extension ag engineer Dan Andersen will start the program with a presentation on manure management and safety. Several local producers also will share their experiences from the fall of 2016 when several cattle were lost during pit agitation, including their experiences using safety monitors. Stephanie Leonard from Great Plains Center for Agricultural Health will share information on hydrogen sulfide safety monitors and how to select the best monitor for different situations. Greg Brenneman, ISU Extension ag engineer, will focus on the positive aspects of nutrient value of manure.

Beef Quality Assurance Feedyard Assessment
Following lunch, the focus will shift from manure to animal care and management. Schwab will share the Beef Quality Assurance Feedyard Assessment and certify participants in the BQA program. Dan Loy, ISU Extension feedlot specialist and director of the Iowa Beef Center, will address key ways to improving bunk management.

Preregistration by Aug. 18 is $15 or $20 after that date. The fee is payable at the door. To register, call 319-472-4739 or email [email protected].

The Iowa Beef Center at ISU was established in 1996 with the goal of supporting the growth and vitality of Iowa’s beef cattle industry. It comprises faculty and staff from ISU Extension, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and the College of Veterinary Medicine. IBC works to develop and deliver the latest research-based information regarding the beef cattle industry. For more information, visit iowabeefcenter.org.

Source: Iowa State University