Nutrient Management Workshop Set for Feb. 2
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EmailSmall and medium-sized dairy farm operators are invited to learn about nutrient management issues, resources and opportunities at a one-day workshop hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station.
Small and medium-sized dairy farm operators are invited to learn about nutrient management issues, resources and opportunities at a one-day workshop hosted by the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) in Hickory Corners Feb. 2
Participants who attend the 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. workshop will hear from MAES scientist Wendy Powers, director of environmental stewardship for animal agriculture; Richard Leep, MAES crop and soil scientist; Dana Kirk, biosystems and agricultural engineering visiting specialist; Charles Gould, MSU Extension educator; and Mark Powell, U.S. Department of Agriculture soil scientist in the Dairy Forage and Aquaculture Research Unit.
Attendees can expect to learn about reducing air emissions from dairy facilities through ration balancing, receive the latest information on anaerobic digesters and find out about managing nitrogen fertilizer in pastures. On-farm composting and details about the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) will also be discussed.
Mat Haan, KBS pasture-based dairy project manager, said dairy farmers and managers interested in learning about nutrient management issues that apply specifically to small and medium-sized farms will find the workshop valuable.
"Nutrient management is an issue challenging farms of all sizes," he said. "But it's important to take into consideration that smaller farms may need to approach the management process a bit differently than larger facilities do. Knowing what tools and resources are available for small and midsized farm operators is a critical first step in the process."
Haan noted that there will be ample opportunity for attendees to network with fellow workshop participants and the speakers during the day.
After the workshop, attendees may take a guided tour of the KBS Pasture Dairy Research and Education Center and robotic milking facility.
Registration is $40 per person and includes lunch, snacks and materials.
To register for the nutrient management workshop or to receive additional information, contact Mat Haan at 269-671-2360, send an e-mail to haanm@msu.edu or visit the workshop Web site.
