2025: Rapid Small-Scale Manure Tests (RSSMT) to Screen Manure Additives to Steer the Development of Larger Mesocosm Projects
Slurry manure storages used widely by dairy farms to protect water quality are an unintended yet substantial source of methane, ammonia, and other emissions that impact climate, air quality, and human health. While available technologies can reduce these emissions, they are expensive, complex, and not suitable for most dairy farms. This project investigates direct dairy manure storage additives as a more affordable, lower-tech, and scalable treatment for these emissions through two experimental systems: rapid small-scale manure tests (RSSMT) and manure mesocosms. Students will expand upon the RSSMT work through the vetting of different classes of manure additive for their greenhouse gas emission reductions, one focused on sulfur additives and the other on acid treatment.
Faculty Lead: Jason Paul Oliver, Animal Science, Cornell CALS
Graduate Student Mentor: Joel Steven Tinoco Valarezo, MS ‘26, Animal Science