Equine Nutrient and Sediment Management Program

This project consists of the following: 

1. Conduct field surveys to define BMP for equid and develop a formula to quantify the "efficiency" of those practices. Twenty-three surveyed equine operations (from several counties within the CBW) were used to develop a baseline for total nutrient balances and levels on Pennsylvania horse farms. In relationship to equine operations, evaluate the existing tools to measure nutrient loss and sediment loss. Assessment of a whole-farm simulation will be conducted to develop an evaluation tool for the long-term impacts of nutrient conservation technologies and strategies on horse farms.

2.) Develop dietary strategies that modify the composition of horse manure, by the reduction of the practice of overfeeding certain nutrients particularly nitrogen and phosphorus in equid.

3.) Conduct regional educational programs and demonstrations that inform and educate equine owners in environmental stewardship. Perform on-farm assessment, and/or make available on-line modules for nutrient management. Conduct educational programming for the staff from Conservation Districts, NRCS and Extension with emphasize on the importance of working with equine operations. It is critical for all equine operations to develop Equine Nutrient and Sediment Management Plans to minimize the industries environmental impact.