Beneficial Reuse of Large Animal Mortality

Disposal of large animal mortality (LAM) has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Incineration is expensive and a potential source of air pollution. Burial is subject to stringent restrictions and may impair groundwater quality. Renderers are no longer accepting cattle mortality due to regulations designed to address concerns about bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) (Federal Rule 21 CFR Part 589). Landfill disposal is costly, capacity is limited, and timing of acceptance of mortalities is uncertain. Therefore, a practical, economically and environmentally-sound rapid system for properly disposing of large animal mortality is needed to ensure continued sustainability of livestock farming and protection of the environment in Virginia. A promising alternative to disposal is mortality composting, which can be cost-effective, environmentally-sound, and bio-secure. This project will demonstrate a practical option for managing bones and demonstrate the soil amendment and nutrient value of large animal mortality compost in farmer's field plots. Conduct a Field Day to demonstrate screening process to farmers. Conduct a Field Day to demonstrate beneficial reuse of screened compost.