Livestock manure has the potential to be an income-generating resource for farmers, and if managed properly, can contribute to sustainable farming. Today, though, it accounts for nearly 10% of all methane emitted by human activities in the United States, with nearly half of that potent greenhouse gas coming from dairy farms. Transitioning to more sustainable manure management practices could help farmers reduce methane emissions, as well as enhance nutrient cycling, improve air quality, reduce water contamination, improve soil health and increase revenue. However, more scientific information is needed to help farmers adopt these sustainable manure management practices.
The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) is taking a first step to close this knowledge gap. FFAR has partnered with science and industry leaders CSU Ag Innovation Center, Dairy Management Inc., University of Vermont, USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and a major food and beverage company to synthesize the existing manure management literature applicable to U.S. dairy. The resulting white paper will summarize the state of the research on manure management and identify critical research needs related to systems-level manure management in U.S. dairy operations. The white paper will be used to inform a future manure management convening that brings together diverse stakeholders to explore:
- Emerging innovations to support sustainable manure management in medium-sized farms.
- The barriers and enabling factors to sustained adoption of manure management systems that support increased environmental sustainability and human health.
- Ways of using manure to add a source of income for farmers and improved environmental agricultural sustainability.
FFAR is seeking proposals from researchers or research teams to conduct this scientific literature review and create the white paper. Proposals are being accepted until a successful candidate or team is selected. This opportunity is anticipated to be a part-time, six-month contract. An individual or university/institution will be awarded the work upon signing a contract, which will outline the terms, scope, budget and other necessary items. More information about the RFP is on FFAR’s website.