EQUINE BEDDING MATERIALS EFFECT ON PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF COMPOSTED STALL WASTE
Applied Research
Stephen Komar
Agricultural Agent
newton
Abstract
In recent years new bedding materials have been marketed to the equine industry. Limited research has been conducted to evaluate how composting impacts the physical and chemical properties of these materials. In 2009, a study was conducted to evaluate the effects that bedding materials have on the physical and chemical properties of composted equine stall waste. Four bedding materials were evaluated including straw, a pelletized straw product, wood shavings and a pelletized wood product. Although not significant (P=.41), numerical differences were observed in final mass. Significant reductions in organic matter were observed in the pelletized straw (P=.003) and the straw bedding (P=<.001). Composting resulted in significant reductions in final C:N ratio for all bedding materials with the greatest reductions occurring in the straw bedding materials. Differences were also observed in TKN, total phosphorus and potassium. Bedding materials appear to influence the physical and chemical properties of composted equine stall waste.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: S.J. Komar, C Williams, M. Westendorf, R. Miskewitz, R. Mickel
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Komar, S. County Agricultural Agent, Rutgers Cooperative Extension, New Jersey, 07860
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Williams, C. Extension Specialist, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, New Jersey, 08901
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Westendorf, M. Extension Specialist, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, New Jersey, 08901
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Miskewitz, R. Assistant Research Professor, Rutgers University, New Jersey, 08901
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Mickel, R. County Agricultural Agent, Rutgers NJAES Cooperative Extension, New Jersey, 08822