Mission:
The mission of the Swine Odor and Manure Management Research Unit is to conduct basic and applied research to solve problems in the livestock industry that impact production efficiency and environmental quality. Multidisciplinary research teams generate and integrate knowledge for evaluation and development of new management practices that minimize nutrient excretion, malodorous emissions, and the release of pathogens into the environment as well as have a positive impact on animal health. The research program goals include: map, characterize and alter the in situ microflora (through diet manipulation) of the gastrointestinal tract to reduce odor production and improve nutrient utilization; determine the effect of alternative diet formulations on nutrient excretion and odor generation from manure storage facilities while optimizing animal performance and carcass characteristics; and develop methodology to measure the effects of potential solutions to control bacterial and parasitic pathogens out of livestock production systems from entering the environment.