Energy and Nutrient Recovery from Cattle Feedlots

• Published in: ISRN renewable energy 2012-01, Vol.2012 (2012), p.1-5
• Main Authors: Eigenberg, Roger A., Woodbury, Bryan L., Auvermann, Brent W., Parker, David B., Spiehs, Mindy J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2090-7451; 2090-746X; 2090-746X
• DOI: 10.5402/2012/723829

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.