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Mortality Management

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Mortality management in dairy farming refers to the systematic approach to handling and disposing of deceased animals in a way that minimizes environmental impact, health risks, and legal concerns. Animal loss as a result of injury, old age, or birth is typical in a dairy operation. However, there are also cases where events such as fire, barn collapse, hurricane, or disease result in a large loss of livestock at one time. 


This practice is an essential component of dairy farm sustainability, aiming to manage animal mortality effectively while maintaining farm hygiene and biosecurity. Having a plan of what to do when a loss occurs reduces stress, protects farm biosecurity, and reduces environmental risk. Mortality management methods include: 


  • Rendering: This method involves converting animal carcasses into usable byproducts, such as animal feed or fertilizers. Rendering may have limited availability due to farm location and is performed for a cost.  

  • Composting: Using controlled biological processes, a farmer is able to decompose carcasses into stable, nutrient-rich compost. Composting takes time and must not be disturbed for a period of time (6-12 months) but can be performed on-site by the producer using available equipment. 

  • Landfilling: Disposal at a landfill may also be limited based on landfill rules and location. It can also be costly.

  • Incineration: This method involves burning carcasses at high temperatures to completely destroy organic material. This method is less common but effective in eliminating disease pathogens. Incineration must meet state and federal environmental regulations and emissions testing and may require a permit for use.

When used, in what regions in the U.S. is the practice found: 

Northwest, West, Upper Midwest, Southwest, Northeast, Southeast

FARM SIZE 

When used, typically found on farms of the following sizes:

All Sizes

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Practice Benefits 

Risk reduction: Farmers can minimize the environmental and social impact associated with a normal mortality event by acting promptly and following proper management protocol.

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Implementation Insights

Site-specific or Farm-specific requirements 

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In most cases, there are no specific site or farm requirements.

Required Capital Expenditures (CapEx)

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  • Plan development: The plan should be developed by a skilled professional familiar with dairy operations. The professional planner should be familiar with the state and federal laws where the farm operation is located.

  • Soil testing/identification: Onsite testing may be needed to determine if onsite soils are appropriate for the management method selected. 

  • Facility construction: Based on the management method chosen, this could include a roofed building with a concrete floor and walled bins in wetter climates.

Required Operational Expenditures (OpEx)

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  • Equipment: Some operations may need to purchase equipment attachments necessary to move animal carcasses and account for fuel and routine maintenance as needed.

  • Carbon bulking agents: It may be necessary to purchase carbon bulking agents for use in the disposal of animal carcasses.

  • Off-site hauling: Some farms may need to budget for the services of an off-site hauler.

Implementation Considerations

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  • Preparedeness: For normal mortality management, implementation of this practice is relatively simple if adequate preparations are made. This includes keeping critical supplies on hand for when treating a mortality is required and reserving the time necessary to address a carcass quickly in order to reduce environmental impact, odor, and possible spillage.

  • Access to skilled labor and equipment: For larger scale events, it may be necessary to deploy additional skilled labor and equipment to quickly implement the plan. A disease event may limit resources and increase governmental oversight of proper implementation. Farmers should also be aware of appropriate contacts in the case of a disease-related event.

Financial Considerations and Revenue Streams

FEDERAL COST-SHARE PROGRAM

Funding is available for this practice through USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

Notes:

  • Check with the local NRCS office on payment rates and practice requirements relevant to your location.


FINANCIAL RESOURCES, TOOLS, AND CASE STUDIES

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Environmental Impacts

IMPROVES WATER QUALITY

Proper management of animal mortality is essential to prevent water and soil contamination, control disease spread, reduce odors, and deter scavengers. The effectiveness of management practices depends on the method used and local conditions, and also helps maintain the operational integrity of facilities handling animal remains.

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Alignment with FARM Program

This practice is not included in the FARM program.

Contents

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We're always eager to update the website with the latest research, implementation insights, financial case studies, and emerging practices. Use the link above to share your insights. 

We're always eager to update the website with the latest research, implementation insights, financial case studies, and emerging practices. Use the link above to share your insights. 

Contents

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Practice Overview

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Practical Insights.png
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Research Results.png
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Mortality management in dairy farming refers to the systematic approach to handling and disposing of deceased animals in a way that minimizes environmental impact, health risks, and legal concerns. Animal loss as a result of injury, old age, or birth is typical in a dairy operation. However, there are also cases where events such as fire, barn collapse, hurricane, or disease result in a large loss of livestock at one time. 


This practice is an essential component of dairy farm sustainability, aiming to manage animal mortality effectively while maintaining farm hygiene and biosecurity. Having a plan of what to do when a loss occurs reduces stress, protects farm biosecurity, and reduces environmental risk. Mortality management methods include: 


  • Rendering: This method involves converting animal carcasses into usable byproducts, such as animal feed or fertilizers. Rendering may have limited availability due to farm location and is performed for a cost.  

  • Composting: Using controlled biological processes, a farmer is able to decompose carcasses into stable, nutrient-rich compost. Composting takes time and must not be disturbed for a period of time (6-12 months) but can be performed on-site by the producer using available equipment. 

  • Landfilling: Disposal at a landfill may also be limited based on landfill rules and location. It can also be costly.

  • Incineration: This method involves burning carcasses at high temperatures to completely destroy organic material. This method is less common but effective in eliminating disease pathogens. Incineration must meet state and federal environmental regulations and emissions testing and may require a permit for use.

Practices and technologies

Mortality Management

alternative practice name: