Program Identification and Planning

The potential for transport of nutrients and pathogens from livestock and dairy production operations to the environment exists with commercial and non-commercial operations. In order to stay economically competitive, most commercial livestock and dairy production operations have increased the number of animals utilizing the same land base. Adoption of animal waste best management practices can reduce the transport of nutrients and pathogens from farms and contribute to improved water quality. Improved management and utilization of animal wastes can occur through proper collection, storage, proper land application, and composting. Such strategies can benefit farmers by reducing disposal problems and reliance on commercial fertilizers, as well as improving water retention and fertility of soils. The University of Arizona has a broad range of research-based educational materials on animal waste management and utilization.

Extension Water Quality has several participants in an Arizona statewide working group, CAFO Education Group. The goal of the group is to provide assistance and training to producers to meet animal waste management rules and regulations through adopting best management practices.

Desired Program Outcomes

• Groundwater and surface water is better protected from contamination by animal manures and agricultural wastes
• Livestock production economics are improved by implementation of whole farm nutrient management strategies
• Producers have a greater knowledge of nutrient cycles and environmental concerns
• Livestock producers are considered good stewards of the environment

Program Inputs

(1) Funding, both intramural and extramural, is sought for projects.
(2) This program is supported by a 0.5 FTE Extension coordinator.
(3) Technology in the form of the Internet, web pages, listservs, digital cameras, etc. support the program.
(4) Curricula and other educational materials, both created and adapted, support the program.
(5) Partnerships are being explored to extend the program's resources.

The program is implemented through workshops, invited speaking engagements, surveys, developing and using curricula for both regulators and practioners, and developing various media to raise awareness.

Program Outputs

1. Distributed flyer and brochure on Agricultural Environmental Management Systems developed by University of Wisconsin to various agencies including the Arizona Department of Agriculture and Arizona Cooperative Extension.
2. Passed along information to specialists and Arizona agency professionals obtained nationwide.
   
3. Maintained two listservs for Animal Waste Management communication: one specifically for the multi-agency education group for animal waste management and one for anyone interested in animal waste management issues statewide.

Outcomes and Impacts

2002:

• 57 University of Arizona faculty and staff, agency personnel, and people interested in animal waste management issues have obtained critical and timely information on laws, published materials, and educational opportunities through the two listservs maintained by the Arizona Extension Water Quality program.