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Horse Manure: A Renewable Resource


Summary

Manure, if used properly, can be a valuable addition to any operation's resource system. Many small scale horse operators feel overwhelmed by the huge mound of manure and soiled bedding. It would be nice if that mound would just disappear, but the reality is that it will always be a concern. So how do you manage the never-ending supply of manure? This is where a good manure management program comes into play; benefiting you, your livestock, your land, the neighborhood, and the surrounding environment. We can start with whole farm nutrient balancing, it can optimize the economics of manure management while minimizing the environmental impacts from manure.

Presenter Information

Dr. Ann Swinker, Associate Professor in Equine Sciences, Penn State University and Horse Extension Specialist has been involved in the horse business for over 35 years. Ann began her career as manager of an Arabian Horse Stables in the south western Pennsylvania. During that time she was involved in breeding, training, marketing, importing and showing a herd of purebred Arabian horses. In 1990 to 2001, Dr. Swinker served as the Extension Horse Specialist at Colorado State University and as a professor of Equine Science.

Dr. Swinker has received several awards from the National Association of County Agricultural Agents and American Society of Animal Science. Dr. Swinker was named “Horse Person of the Year" in 2001 by the Colorado Equine Council. She serves on the Pennsylvania Equine Council board of directors, PQHA board, American’s Unwanted Horse Collation and is a member in several other equine related organizations. Dr. Swinker has served on several graduate research committees at several universities. Her research activities have addressed several management and environmental issues such as: stable air quality, small acreage management, composting and manure management and water quality, in addition to behavior and reproductive issues. She has served on numerous extension, university and professional society committees.

In addition, she conducts nearly 30 workshops, presentations and clinics each year. Today she and her husband Dr. Dan Kniffen own and breed Arabian Horses and raise Hereford cattle on a ranch in Spring Mills, PA.

Watch the recorded webcast below!

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