Project: MLMMI 2010-11
Objective
The intent of the project is to better quantify trace elements in feed and manure and determine for which elements feed is the dominant source and where to look for other sources. In the second year, direct evidence of accumulation in soil will be investigated.
Performer
Steve Sheppard
EcoMatters Inc.
Details
Status: Completed
Started: 2010-09-01
Completed: 2012-09-01
Funding Partners: who have contributed to MLMMI in support of this project:
Manitoba Pork Council - $33,788.50
Agri-Food Research and Development Initiative (ARDI) under the Canada-Manitoba Growing Forward Initiative - $33,788.50
Amount Funded: $82,957.00
Performer Funded: $1,170.00
Total Cost: $84,127.00
Activity
Progress report #1 due March 1, 2011.
Progress report #2 due September 1, 2011.
Progress report #3 due March 1, 2012.
Final report due September 1, 2012.
Summary
Trace elements are commonly added to animal feeds as mineral supplements, as well as being present in the basic organic feed materials. This project measured ~60 elements in 124 manure samples from broiler, layer, turkey, swine grower, swine nursery, sow, dairy and beef operations. The corresponding feeds were also analyzed. The addition to soil of trace elements in manure is balanced to some extent by crop offtake of these trace elements.
To evaluate the effect of trace elements in manure on soil concentrations, sampling was done of soil profiles. Little or no accumulation was found for most trace elements in most soils. The results of soil sampling showed fairly clear evidence of Zn accumulation in a few soils receiving swine manure. Based on a simple risk assessment, Zn concentrations in soils receiving swine nursery manure could double in 27 years.