Energy and Nutrient Recovery from Cattle Feedlots

Abstract EN

Selective harvesting of manure can benefit cattle producers by creating a product of value.

A tool that identifies locations of manure accumulation has been developed using a subsurface sensor (Dualem-1S, Milton, ON) and software designed for salt mapping (ESAP, Riverside, CA).

The combination allowed the development of models to estimate higher heating value (HHV) of feedlot manure across a feedlot pen.

Soil sample data from cattle feedlots in Texas and Nebraska were analyzed for volatile solids (VSs) then combined with the Dualem-1S apparent soil conductivity (ECa) data to produce models having correlations between associated ECa values and VS (r2=0.869, VS).

A corresponding model is under development to estimate the moisture content of the collectable solids.

The combined models allow real-time spatial estimates of HHV within a feedlot pen.

These methods will allow direct harvesting of VS for use as a recoverable energy source through direct combustion or cocombustion.