Progress 09/01/02 to 08/31/07
Outputs
Progress Report Objectives (from AD-416) For growing meat animals, measure and evaluate the dynamic interaction of energetic, physiological, and behavioral responses to stressor thresholds causing reduced efficiency and performance; develop or improve functional relationships of performance and physiological responses to thermal environment conditions; and modify current livestock production system models to more fully incorporate the impact of environmental stressors on expected performance as a basis for discussion support systems. Approach (from AD-416) The previous CRIS project established that stress thresholds existed for meat animals, reducing productivity. Response dynamics including short- term measures of thermoregulation, such as heat production, body temperature fluctuation, respiration rate, and some behavioral activities are important indicators of stress that can be used to determine appropriate management actions. This approach will be further developed to assess the need for shade and other management alternatives for ameliorating severe heat stress of feedlot cattle, to assess the effects of feedlot surface on the health and productivity of feedlot cattle, and to determine the nutritional requirements of high-lean growth swine to heat stress, constant and cyclic. Environmental chambers and feedlot production facilities will be used to house study animals and provide treatment conditions. Predictive response relationships will be refined within animal growth models to extend the useful range of environments to include heat stress conditions. Where appropriate, instrumentation will be developed to incorporate known animal response data and environmental conditions into a weather advisory tool. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations This CRIS was replaced August 2, 2007, by Project No. 5438-32630-005-00D with the following objectives that are partially based on the previous objectives. Objective 1 deals with identification of physiological responses (phenotypes) to stress that contribute to production loss and disease susceptibility. A database will be developed of health status and animal temperament to investigate genetic correlations among health and animal responses. Enhanced respiration rate monitors, suitable for use on group penned cattle are being developed and tested for sensitivity and durability. Objective 2 deals with risk assessment and management tools for feedlot producers facing heat stress conditions. A website development was initiated to interface our heat stress model for estimating respiration rate and associated levels of heat stress with forecast data, capable of seven-day forecasts of temperature, humidity, wind speed and cloud cover. The resulting forecast data will be formatted into a regional map presenting potential heat stress conditions and made available on the USMARC web site. In addition, future verification of the heat stress risk assessment model are required using data to be collected from groups of animals with greater diversity of risk factors than the original datasets used to develop the model. Objective 3 deals with management strategies for ameliorating heat stress. Different types of shade material will be evaluated for their effectiveness and a cost-benefit relationship will be developed to aid in material selection. Use of wetting cattle surfaces to dissipate body heat during heat stress will also be evaluated for its effectiveness. Objective 4 is designed to update current ventilation standards for swine based on heat and moisture production of modern, high growth rate and lean swine. Conditions will include warmer conditions and heavier weights than the current standards cover. Experiments are being designed to evaluate heat production over the full range of finishing pig weights. Accomplishments Heat Stress Risk Assessment: Development and evaluation of the risk assessment model are dependent on basic research data involving important risk factors and the magnitude of the associated risks. The comparison of heat tolerance of feedlot heifers of different breeds and development of heat stress risk factors of feedlot heifers were developed, published, and made available to producers. Furthermore, the data were used to verify the risk assessment model and provide the framework for future work on precision animal management in the feedlot. It was documented that dark-hided cattle were 25% more stressed than light-colored animals; a history of respiratory pneumonia increased stress level by 10.5%; each level of fatness increased stress level by approximately 10%; and excitable cattle had a 3. 2% higher stress level than calm animals, when evaluated at temperatures above 25 C. Furthermore, interactions with breed and risk factors were found in growth rate. Respiration rate was the primary factor used to assess stress level. This accomplishment aligns with NP101 (formerly NP105), Food Animal Production and specifically addresses section 3, practices and systems to improve care and well-being of that former National Program. Technology Transfer Number of Web Sites managed: 1 Number of Non-Peer Reviewed Presentations and Proceedings: 4 Number of Newspaper Articles,Presentations for NonScience Audiences: 9
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
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Progress 10/01/04 to 09/30/05
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? Environmental management of livestock to minimize performance and death losses due to heat stress. Examples are feedlot cattle deaths and reduced growth rates in hot weather, and low growth performance, efficiency, and product quality for swine in hot or cold conditions. We are evaluating the dynamics of physiological responses (respiration, thermoregulation, heat production, feeding, etc.) of animals to thermal challenges to provide the knowledge base needed to develop proactive decision-making tools. Where needed, we are developing instrumentation to improve measurement of dynamic animal responses. We are also developing "on site" instrumentation to monitor climatic conditions and warn feedlot operators of negative weather conditions affecting animal well being. This research addresses several
goals of the National Program Action Plan for Animal Well-Being and Stress Control Systems including: measures of well-being and stress (section 1), adaptation and adaptiveness (section 2), social behavior and spacing (section 3), practices and systems to improve care and well-being (section 5), and bioenergetic criteria for environmental management (section 6). Heat waves in the Midwest have resulted in major performance and death losses of $28 million (1995) and $40 million (1999) for the cattle industry alone. Other livestock production systems have experienced production losses and market delays. Hot weather losses can be better managed if producers are prepared (weather forecast and "on site" weather monitor), recognize early signs of distress (physiological responses), and take appropriate action (sprinklers, shades, dietary manipulation, etc.). The bottom line is that producers require improved guidelines for decision-making to manage livestock under hot environmental
temperatures. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. This project was reviewed in 2002 and approved for FY 03 as a 60-month project. Year 1 (FY 2003): Objective 1. Collect data on individual animals under shade/no-shade conditions; construct shade structure for group penned animals; install feedlot surface treatments for group penned animals; collect data on optimal diet for heat stressed pigs. Objective 2. Evaluate ASAE standards for swine heat production; develop Livestock Safety Monitor (LSM) and collect data. Objective 3. Collect data on effects of hair coat and other factors on heat stress of feedlot animals. Year 2 (FY 2004): Objective 1. Collect data and summarize individual animal's response to shade; complete construction and collect data on group penned shade and pen surface facility; analyze and report data on heat stressed pigs; collect data on effects of cyclic temperature effects on heat stressed pigs. Objective 2. Collect data with
collaborators on heat production; develop solar equivalent measurements and collect data; collect data from LSM. Objective 3. Report model results. Year 3 (FY 2005): Objective 1. Analyze individual shade response data and report; collect data from group penned cattle in shade/surface facility; analyze data from cyclic temperature heat stressed swine study. Summarize and report the development of the individual animal feeding monitoring system. Objective 2. Collect data on swine heat production from collaborators; analyze solar equivalent data and report; verify LSM operation and collect data. Collaborate with independent feedlot. Objective 3. Analyze feeding behavior results under shade/surface conditions. Year 4 (FY 2006): Objective 1. Collect and analyze data on group penned cattle under shade/surfaced facility. Objective 2. Analyze swine heat production data and report results; analyze LSM data and report results. Objective 3. Develop a risk assessment model to determine
relative heat stress risk levels for individual feedlot cattle. Year 5 (FY 2007) Evaluate the animal risk assessment model. Evaluate project objectives and develop Project Prospectus and Plan for OSQR review. 3a List the milestones that were scheduled to be addressed in FY 2005. For each milestone, indicate the status: fully met, substantially met, or not met. If not met, why. 1. Analyze individual shade response data and report. Milestone Substantially Met 2. Collect data from group penned cattle in shade/surface facility. Milestone Substantially Met 3. Analyze data from cyclic temperature heat stressed swine study. Milestone Not Met Critical SY Vacancy 4. Summarize and report the development of the individual animal feeding monitoring system. Milestone Substantially Met 5. Collect data on swine heat production from collaborators. Milestone Not Met Progress slowed by resource limitation (human,fiscal,equipment, etc. 6. Analyze solar equivalent data and report. Milestone Not Met
Other 7. Verify LSM operation and collect data. Milestone Substantially Met 8. Collaborate with independent feedlot. Milestone Substantially Met 9. Analyze feeding behavior results under shade/surface conditions. Milestone Substantially Met 3b List the milestones that you expect to address over the next 3 years (FY 2006, 2007, and 2008). What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years under each milestone? Year 1 (FY 2006): Collect and analyze data on group penned cattle under shade/surfaced facility. An intermediate report of performance of cattle under shade and on two types of feedlot surfaces (pond ash and soil) will be prepared and presented at a national ASAE meeting. Swine heat production data will have been collected at MARC, however, there are no current commitments from collaborators to augment our existing data at this time, and MARC chamber facilities require repair before additional measurements can be completed. If possible, updated ASAE standards
will be submitted for approval by the sponsoring ASAE committee. Performance of the LSM will be summarized and reported. Data collected in Objective 1 will be used to test the risk factor model developed in the previous year. Year 2 (FY 2007) Need for further measurements of swine heat production will determine need for continuation of that data collection in the next version of this CRIS. Shade and surface study will have completed three years and those results will be available for publication. Alternative surfaces may be developed, depending on performance of animals under current conditions, an important component of the revised CRIS. Solar radiation impact will be evaluated indirectly, and it may be possible to identify a laboratory in the future that could simulate solar effects, such as at Arizona State University. The models developed to estimate nutrient requirements of swine under heat stress and to evaluate risk of beef animals to heat stress will be tested. An effort to
apply models to a more readily accessible form such as a web site, will be evaluated. Year 3 (FY 2008) Swine heat production data collection will be completed and revised ASAE Standards will be developed and submitted for committee approval. A web site will be developed to provide users with a 5-10 day forecast of heat stress for beef cattle. Development of the real-time risk assessment model will begin for identifying animals at risk of suffering from heat stress at the time of initial processing into the feedlot. A preliminary study to investigate the potential of genetic markers related to heat tolerance will begin. Shade and feedlot surface study data will be summarized and reported. 4a What was the single most significant accomplishment this past year? Leading stress indicator: Through comparisons of various responses of cattle to laboratory controlled heat stress conditions, we have found and reported that respiration rate is an excellent indicator of stress in cattle for
several reasons. First, respiration rate leads other forms of measurable response by several hours. Core body temperature increase is often considered a primary indicator of the level of stress, however, we have shown that animals increase their rate of breathing before body temperature increases, probably in an effort to increase heat dissipation. Likewise, heat production increases as body temperature increases, but respiration rate precedes this increase as well. Behavioral changes can also signal increased stress levels, but behavioral changes can be subtle and not always immediately observable. Next, respiration rate is also more easily measured than heat production or core body temperature by observation of flank movements without disturbing animals. These visual indicators of stress are vital to cattle producers as a means to recognize the impact of the stress which is not solely dependent on a single climate measure. Finally, heat waves that negatively affect cattle are a
combination of weather conditions, including environmental temperature, solar radiation, humidity, and air flow. We have combined these primary climatic measures into a simple mathematical relationship to predict the respiration rate. We have identified thresholds of respiration rates and quantified the response to be in normal, alert, danger, and emergency categories. We have incorporated "real time" local weather variables to provide cattle producers with these predicted indicators and levels of expected cattle responses so that producers are aware of critical weather conditions and probable animal stress, thus able to take action to ameliorate the effects to the best of their ability by implementing planned management responses. 4d Progress report. Construction of the MARC indirect calorimeter has been completed and verified with alcohol lamp burns with 101.3% +/- 1.9% measurement of oxygen consumption, and 99.6% +/- 2.1% of carbon dioxide production compared to known stochiometric
volume calculations. Temperature control within the four chambers was excellent, but humidity could not be controlled at low levels (<35% RH). An initial experiment has just been concluded which included two measurements on each of 30 finishing swine from 16 to 32 deg C. While the calorimeters functioned within expectations, the environmental chambers used to maintain controlled thermal environmental conditions developed problems requiring extensive repair before additional measurements are possible. Data collection has recently been completed on a second group of market weight cattle in the shade/no-shade facility. Cattle of four breeds (two light-hided and two dark-hided breeds) were observed for eating behavior, shade usage, and respiration rate. An initial study conducted over two summers using breed differences in unshaded pens showed that coat color, previous health history, temperament, and size (body weight) affected the rate of breathing at environmental temperatures above 25
deg C. Important environmental conditions included temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation. Multiple regression analysis was used to describe results and predict response. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. The research reported is conducted under National Program 105 "Animal Well-Being and Stress Control Systems," and directly contributes to Problem Area 1 "Measures of well-being and stress," Problem Area 2 "Adaptation and adaptedness," Problem Area 4 "Practices and systems to improve care and well-being," and Problem Area 6 "Bioenergetic criteria for environmental management." Research activities are further related to ARS Strategic Plan Goal 1 "Enhance economic opportunities for agricultural producers;" Objective 1.1, Provide the science-based knowledge and technologies to generate new or improved high quality, value added products, and processes to expand domestic and foreign markets for
agricultural commodities. Our research program has demonstrated temperature thresholds for cattle and swine that are based on dynamic measurements of animal response. Thresholds have been established using linear and non-linear statistical methods, and serve as decision-making tools for livestock producers to manage thermal challenges. Examples include temperature thresholds for growth of medium and high lean gain swine and feed intake, respiration rate, and body temperature thresholds for cattle. Results from this CRIS have led to extended research among collaborators in a regional committee, several state extension programs, and international laboratories (Australia, South America, and Mexico). 6. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products?
Respiration rate and heat stress responses were presented to the Rural Veterinary Association and the North Carolina Cattlemen Association. The use of respiration rate as an indicator of stress has become the basis of current efforts to develop a website in conjunction with the National Weather Service to provide producers with heat stress forecasts. Although the website is in the development stage, information on respiration rate is immediately available for use by producers as a heat stress measure. Presentations entitled "Thermal analysis and behavioral activity of heifers in shade or sunlight," "Development of a low-cost GPS herd activity and welfare kit (HAWK) for livestock monitoring," "Development of a cattle id monitoring system," and "Heat stress risk factors for feedlot heifers" were made at the 7th International Livestock Environment Symposium in Beijing, China. In addition, "Temperature and humidity control in indirect calorimeter chambers" was presented to participants of
the annual ASAE Meeting in Tampa, FL.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Mader, T., Davis, S., Gaughan, J., Brown Brandl, T.M. 2004. Wind speed and solar radiation adjustments for the temperature-humidity index. Meeting Abstract. 16th Conference on Biometeorology and Aerobiology,Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. B.3. CDROM.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Nienaber, J.A., Eigenberg, R.A., Hahn, G.L. 2004. Relative heat tolerance among cattle of different genetics. Meeting Abstract. 16th Biometeorology and Aerobiology Conference, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. 6B.5, CDROM.
- Eigenberg, R.A., Brown Brandl, T.M., Nienaber, J.A. 2004. Biosensors applied to physiological monitoring [abstract]. Third International Workshop on Smart Sensors in Livestock Monitoring (SMART 2004). CD-ROM. p. 12-13.
- Gaughan, J.B., Tait, L.A., Eigenberg, R.A., Bryden, W.L. 2004. Effect of shade on respiration rate and rectal temperature of angus heifers. Animal Production in Australia: Proceedings of the 25th Australian Society of Animal Production Conference, Melbourne, Australia. 25:69-72.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Eigenberg, R.A., Nienaber, J.A., Hahn, G.L. 2005. Dynamic response indicators of heat stress in shaded and non-shaded feedlot cattle: part 1. analysis of indicators. Biosystems Engineering 90(4):451-462.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Eigenberg, R.A., Hahn, G.L., Nienaber, J.A., Mader, T. L., Spiers, D.E., Parkhurst, A.M. 2005. Analyses of thermoregulatory responses of feeder cattle exposed to simulated heat waves. International Journal of Biometeorology 49:285-296.
- Hillman, P.E., Gebremedhin, K.G., Brown Brandl, T.M., Lee, C.N. 2005. Thermal analysis and behavioral activity of heifers in shade or sunlight. Proceedings, Seventh International Livestock Environmental Symposium. p. 151-161.
- Davis, J.D., Darr, M.J., Xin, H., Harmon, J.D., Brown Brandl, T.M. 2005. Development of a low-cost GPS herd activity and welfare kit (HAWK) for livestock monitoring. Proceedings, Seventh International Livestock Environment Symposium. p. 607-612.
- Eigenberg, R.A., Brown Brandl, T.M. 2005. Development of a cattle id monitoring system. Proceedings, Seventh International Livestock Environment Symposium. p. 600-606.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Eigenberg, R.A., Nienaber, J.A. 2005. Heat stress risk factors for feedlot heifers. Proceedings of the Seventh International Symposium Livestock Environment VII. p. 559-565.
- Eigenberg, R.A., Brown Brandl, T.M., Nienaber, J.A., Hahn, G.L. 2005. Dynamic response indicators of heat stress in shaded and non-shaded feedlot cattle: part 2 predictive relationships. Biosystems Engineering 91(1):111-118.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Jones, D.D., Woldt, W.E. 2005. Evaluating modelling techniques for cattle heat stress prediction. Biosystems Engineering 91(4) :513-524.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Nienaber, J.A., Eigenberg, R.A. 2005. Temperature and humidity control in indirect calorimeter chambers. American Society of Agri Engineers Special Meetings and Conferences Papers. Paper #054018.
- Nienaber, J.A. 2004. Beef cattle: housing. Encyclopedia of Animal Science, 77-80. http://www.dekker.com/servlet/product/producid/E-EAS.
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Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? Environmental management of livestock to minimize performance and death losses due to heat stress. Examples are feedlot cattle deaths and reduced growth rates in hot weather, and low growth performance, efficiency, and product quality for swine in hot or cold conditions. We are evaluating the dynamics of physiological responses (respiration, thermoregulation, heat production, feeding, etc.) of animals to thermal challenges to provide the knowledge base needed to develop proactive decision-making tools. Where needed, we are developing instrumentation to improve measurement of dynamic animal responses. We are also developing "on site" instrumentation to monitor climatic conditions and warn feedlot operators of negative weather conditions affecting animal well-being. This research addresses several
goals of the National Program Action Plan for Animal Well-Being and Stress Control Systems including: measures of well-being and stress (section 1), adaptation and adaptiveness (section 2), social behavior and spacing (section 3), practices and systems to improve care and well-being (section 5), and bioenergetic criteria for environmental management (section 6). Heat waves in the Midwest have resulted in major performance and death losses of $28 million (1995) and $40 million (1999) for the cattle industry alone. Other livestock production systems have experienced production losses and market delays. Hot weather losses can be better managed if producers are prepared (weather forecast and 'on site' weather monitor), recognize early signs of distress (physiological responses), and take appropriate action (sprinklers, shades, dietary manipulation, etc.). The bottom line is that producers require improved guidelines for decision-making to manage livestock under hot environmental
temperatures. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. This project was reviewed in 2002 and approved for FY 03 as a 60-month project. Year 1 (FY 2003): Objective 1. Collect data on individual animals under shade/no-shade conditions; construct shade structure for group penned animals; install feedlot surface treatments for group penned animals; collect data on optimal diet for heat stressed pigs. Objective 2. Evaluate ASAE standards for swine heat production; develop Livestock Safety Monitor (LSM) and collect data. Objective 3. Collect data on effects of hair coat and other factors on heat stress of feedlot animals. Year 2 (FY 2004): Objective 1. Collect data and summarize individual animal's response to shade; complete construction and collect data on group penned shade and pen surface facility; analyze and report data on heat stressed pigs; collect data on effects of cyclic temperature effects on heat-stressed pigs. Objective 2. Collect data with
collaborators on heat production; develop solar equivalent measurements and collect data; collect data from LSM. Objective 3. Report model results. Year 3 (FY 2005): Objective 1. Analyze individual shade response data and report; collect data from group penned cattle in shade/surface facility; analyze data from cyclic temperature heat-stressed swine study. Summarize and report the development of the individual animal feeding monitoring system. Objective 2. Collect data on swine heat production from collaborators; analyze solar equivalent data and report; verify LSM operation and collect data. Collaborate with independent feedlot. Objective 3. Analyze feeding behavior results under shade/surface conditions. Year 4 (FY 2006): Objective 1. Collect and analyze data on group penned cattle under shade/surfaced facility. Objective 2. Analyze swine heat production data and report results; analyze LSM data and report results. Objective 3. Develop a risk assessment model to determine
relative heat-stress risk levels for individual feedlot cattle. Year 5 (FY 2007) Evaluate the animal risk assessment model. Evaluate project objectives and develop Project Prospectus and Plan for OSQR review. 3. Milestones: A. Milestones to be addressed in 2004 and progress. Objective 1. Collect data on individual animals under shade/no shade conditions. Data collected under the individual shade structures was completed during this fiscal year. Data were summarized and are being presented at the annual ASAE meeting. Papers are now being finalized for submission to a peer reviewed journal that deal with shade effects on respiration rate, body temperature, feed intake, and behavior of feedlot steers. The second manuscript will include an equation to be used to predict stress in feedlot cattle based on weather conditions, and will address Objective 2 (solar equivalent). Construct shade structure for group penned animals. This was a major effort this year, as the penning system was
fitted with a feed bunk system capable of tracking eating behavior of individual animals within each of 16 pens under shade/no-shade, and surfaced/unsurfaced conditions. The system was designed, built, tested, installed, and cattle were admitted to the facility in mid-June in time for the summer heat stress period. The system is currently operating as designed. Install feedlot surface treatments for group penned animals. This system is integral to the companion objective on the shade structure. Pen surfaces consist of compacted soil and compacted pond ash (from a local coal fired power plant). Compacted surfaces were installed in four shaded pens and four unshaded pens: the surface, installed directly behind the bunk, accounts for 50% of the total pen surface. Collect data on optimal diet for heat stressed pigs. Data collection was completed within the swine area, data were analyzed, and results reported in an ASAE paper. The optimal diet for 28 to 30C used in the environmental
chambers contained 4% fat and a 1.89 ratio of g Total Ileal Digestible Lysine per Mcal metabolizable energy. Objective 2. Evaluate ASAE standards for swine heat production. Swine heat production standards currently published by ASAE were reviewed and compared with recent measurements taken at MARC and other locations. The published standards, based on data collected up to 45 years ago, were found to under-estimate swine heat and moisture production. A recommendation was made to develop standards based on modern genetic stock. Develop Livestock Safety Monitor (LSM) and collect data. An electronic device to estimate the response of cattle to environmental conditions was developed, based on automated respiration rate data obtained from experiments conducted on individually penned animals in unshaded feedlot pens. The device was interconnected with a commercially available weather station to provide real-time estimates of respiration rate of cattle as affected by conditions in an
unshaded feedlot. The monitor provides cattle producers with an estimate of current stress level within the feedyard. Objective 3. Collect data for model on effects of hair coat and other factors on heat stress of feedlot animals. Two-hundred fifty-six heifers of four selected breeds were observed for respiration rate, panting scores, surface temperature, and behavior over two summer periods. Dark- hided animals had higher respiration rate, panting scores, surface temperature, and adjusted their behavior more than light-hided animals. In a separate analysis it was found that respiration rates and panting scores at conditions above 25C were affected by hair coat color, health history, temperament, and body condition score. B. Milestones to be addressed over the next three years. Year 1 (FY 2005): Objective 1: Report data from individual shade response study. Data has been collected, summarized, and analyzed. A final report of those results is in preparation for submission to a peer
reviewed journal. Collect data from group penned cattle in shade/surface facility. Cattle have been in place since mid-June and will be marketed in August. Data on shade and surface useage, as well as surface conditions of the pens, are being collected in addition to feed behavior data. Data from the cyclic temperature heat-stressed swine study has been summarized and analyzed. A final manuscript of performance is in preparation, and complimentary data has been collected and must be further analyzed before publication. Both reports should be completed during this year. Objective 2: Collect data on swine heat production from collaborators. We are nearing completion of the calorimeter renovation and plan to begin collecting data this winter according to an experiment outline already developed. Analyze solar equivalent data refers to a series of experiments that indicate the value of solar shading in reducing heat stress. It is not conclusive at this time that enough data is available to
publish this work. It may require more information. Verify LSM operation and collect data from a collaborator which has been identified. A system has been installed at the collaborator's feedlot. Objective 3: A post-doctoral proposal has been submitted to work with members of the Biological Systems Engineering Department of the University of Nebraska. Initial modeling techniques have indicated promising models to identify physiologically important factors such as previous health, temperament, and body condition to use in evaluating an individual animal's risk factor for dangerous heat stress. Year 2 (FY 2006): Objective 1: Collect and analyze data on group penned cattle under shade/surfaced facility. An intermediate report of performance of cattle under shade and on two types of feedlot surfaces (pond ash and soil) will be prepared and presented at a national ASAE meeting. Objective 2: Swine heat production data will have been collected at MARC, however, there are no current
commitments from collaborators to augment our existing data at this time. If possible, updated ASAE standards will be submitted for approval by the sponsoring ASAE committee. Performance of the LSM will be summarized and reported. Objective 3: Data collected in Objective 1 will be used to test the risk factor model developed in the previous year. Year 3 (FY 2007) Need for further measurements of swine heat production will determine need for continuation of that data collection in the next version of this CRIS. Shade and surface study will have completed three years, and those results will be available for publication. Alternative surfaces may be developed, depending on performance of animals under current conditions, an important component of the revised CRIS. Solar radiation impact will be evaluated indirectly, and it may be possible to identify a laboratory in the future that could simulate solar effects, such as at Arizona State University. The models developed to estimate nutrient
requirements of swine under heat stress and to evaluate risk of beef animals to heat stress will be tested. An effort to apply models to a more readily accessible form such as a web site, will be evaluated. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single most significant accomplishment during FY 2004: Results of studies conducted in the MARC environmental chambers and calorimeters, the feedlot, and swine area were used to summarize the response of cattle, sheep, and swine to high environmental temperatures. Response measurements included feed consumption and feeding behavior, water intake, heat production, body composition, heat production, body temperature, respiration rate, heart rate, and growth. In addition, several health measures were taken when appropriate. Measurements were made on each species under controlled environmental conditions within the chambers and the calorimeters, as well as in the MARC production facilities. Heat stress was defined
by environmental conditions on the basis of expected responses which disrupted the animals' homeostatic conditions. Thermal regulation by animals was measured directly and indirectly through measurements of respiration rate, body temperature, eating behavior, and heat production. The summary was presented to an international audience as an invited keynote address, and set the stage for presentations on heat stress for the conference. B. Other significant accomplishment(s), if any. None C. Significant activities that support special target populations. None D. Progress Report. The primary activity for the past year has been development of the shade/surface facility at the MARC feedlot. Development of the pens, initiated in FY-03, consisted of eight pens each of shade and no-shade. In addition to the shade/no-shade comparison, a comparison of surfaces (pond ash and soil) was also designed. Four shaded and four unshaded pens had packed pond ash surface on 50% of the area behind the
feed bunk. The pond ash is a byproduct of the local coal-fired power plant, and is expected to remain firm throughout the year. A feeding behavior system was designed, tested, constructed, and verified so that all 16 pens were instrumented to record individual animal feeding behavior. Cattle were placed in the pens in mid-June. Testing has included observations of four breeds of heifers, penned two of each breed in each pen, with respect to respiration rate and surface temperatures. This is related to previous studies on the effects of genotype (hair coat color) on heat stress, but with individual feeding behavior measurements. Those previous studies have shown that hair coat color is important in response of animals in unshaded pens to temperatures above 25C. Other factors affecting animal response included health history, body condition score, and temperament. A second major development project has been the indirect calorimetry system. A series of four chambers with built-in
air handling systems was designed and is under construction. The indirect expansion cooling system should provide for cyclic temperature control, as well as humidity control. The facilities will provide a basis to expand heat production measurements on modern genetic lines of swine. The livestock safety monitor (LSM) designed and built last year has been under evaluation at the MARC feedlot. An independent feedlot collaborator has been identified and installation was completed this summer, with more extensive testing to continue next year. Five modeling methods were tested on their prediction of respiration rate based on current weather conditions. These methods included two regression models, two types of fuzzy inference systems, and a neural network. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Our research program has demonstrated temperature thresholds for cattle and swine that are based on dynamic measurements
of animal response. Thresholds have been established using linear and non-linear statistical methods, and serve as decision-making tools for livestock producers to manage thermal challenges. Examples include temperature thresholds for growth of medium and high lean gain swine and feed intake, respiration rate, and body temperature thresholds for cattle. Results from this CRIS have led to extended research among collaborators in a regional committee, several state extension programs, and international laboratories (Australia, South America, and Mexico). 6. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Presentations entitled "Perspective on development of thermal indices for animal studies and management," "A literature review of swine heat and moisture
production," "Australian feedlot cattle response to shade and no- shade," "Indicators of heat stress in shaded and non-shaded feedlot cattle," "Engineering and management practices to ameliorate livestock heat stress," and "Dynamic responses of feeder cattle to simulated heat waves" were given to scientists and engineers at national and international meetings. In addition, consultation with an Australian feedlot owner/operator was given on heat stress amelioration, and an invited presentation on the Livestock Safety Monitor was given to Iowa State University Meteorology Department. 7. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. A summary of the literature review of swine heat production was given to the National Hog Farmer Magazine, a summary of the temperature telemetry system was written for the ARS Agricultural Research Magazine, a summary of the effects of shade and use of the temperature
telemetry system was given to both the Progressive Farmer and the Western Livestock Journal Magazines, and a radio interview was given for the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association on identification of heat stress in feedlot cattle using respiration rate and behavior.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., EIGENBERG, R.A., NIENABER, J.A., HAHN, G.L. SHADE EFFECTS ON PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF FEEDER CATTLE. EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF ANIMAL PRODUCTION PROCEEDINGS. 2003. pg. 107.
- Yen, J. T., Varel, V. H., Nienaber, J. A. 2004. Metabolic and microbial responses in western crossbred and Meishan growing pigs fed a high-fiber diet. Journal of Animal Science. 82:1740-1755.
- FREETLY, H.C., NIENABER, J.A., BROWN BRANDL, T.M. HEAT PRODUCTION OF GROWING HEIFERS THAT DIFFER IN COMPOSITION OF BOS INDICUS AND BOS TAURUS. PROCEEDINGS OF PROGRESS IN RESEARCH ON ENERGY AND PROTEIN METABOLISM, EAAP PUBLICATION NO. 109. 2003. P. 497-500.
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Nienaber, J.A., Xin, H., Gates, R.S. 2004. A literature review of swine heat production. Transactions of the ASAE. 47(1) :259-270.
- Nienaber, J.A., Hahn, G.L. 2004. Engineering and management practices to ameliorate livestock heat stress. In: Proceedings, International Symposium of the CIGR. New Trends in Farm Buildings, Lecture 6, 1-18. May 2-6, 2004, Evora, Portugal. 2004 CDROM
- Brown Brandl, T.M., Eigenberg, R.A., Nienaber, J.A., Hahn, G.L. 2004. Indicators of heat stress in shaded and non-shaded feedlot cattle. American Society of Agri Engineers Special Meetings and Conferences Papers. Paper No. 044037.
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., YANAGI, T., XIN, H., GATES, R.S., BUCKLIN, R., ROSS, G. S. 2003. A NEW TELEMETRY SYSTEM FOR MEASURING CORE BODY TEMPERATURE IN LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY. APPLIED ENGINEERING IN AGRICULTURE 19(5):583-589.
- HAHN, G.L., MADER, T.L., EIGENBERG, R.A. PERSPECTIVES ON DEVELOPMENT OF THERMAL INDICES FOR ANIMAL STUDIES AND MANAGEMENT. EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF ANIMAL PRODUCTION PROCEEDINGS. 2003. pg 31-44.
- NIENABER, J.A. BIOENERGETIC CRITERIA FOR MANAGEMENT OF LIVESTOCK ENVIRONMENTS. FeedInfo News Service. 2003. www.feedinfo.com
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., NIENABER, J.A., HAHN, G.L., EIGENBERG, R.A., PARKHURST, A.M. DYNAMIC RESPONSES OF FEEDER CATTLE TO SIMULATED HEAT WAVES. SYMPOSIUM PROCEEDINGS.EAAP Pub. #109, p. 335-338. 2003.
- Eigenberg, R.A., Gaughan, J.B., Bryden, W.L., Nienaber, J.A. 2004. Australian feedlot cattle response to shade and no-shade. American Society of Agri Engineers Special Meetings and Conferences Papers. Paper #044036
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Environmental management of livestock to minimize performance and death losses due to heat stress. Examples are feedlot cattle deaths and reduced growth rates in hot weather, and low growth performance, efficiency and product quality for swine in hot or cold conditions. We are evaluating the dynamics of physiological responses (respiration, thermoregulation, heat production, feeding, etc) of animals to thermal challenges to provide the knowledge base needed to develop proactive decision-making tools. Where needed, we are developing instrumentation to improve measurement of dynamic animal responses. We are also developing "on site" instrumentation to monitor climatic conditions and warn feedlot operators of negative weather conditions affecting animal well being. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Heat waves in the midwest have resulted in major performance and death
losses of $28 million (1995) and $40 million (1999) for the cattle industry alone. Other livestock production systems have experienced production losses and market delays. Hot weather losses can be better managed if producers are prepared (weather forecast and "on site" weather monitor), recognize early signs of distress (physiological responses) and take appropriate action (sprinklers, shades, dietary manipulation, etc). The bottom line is that producers require improved guidelines for decision-making to manage livestock under hot environmental temperatures. 3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? Research of this project addresses four elements of the National Program 105, "Animal Well-Being and Stress Control Systems." Physiological and production measures of animal responses (cattle and swine) have been made under thermoneutral and hot environmental conditions. Animal behavior measures included feeding
behavior and activity. Application of the information obtained using both field and laboratory conditions provides the basis for development of management guidelines that are decision- support tools. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment During FY2003. Guidelines for management of both cattle and swine under heat stress have been presented to producers, scientists, and extension educators at national and international conferences. These guidelines are based on recent developments of sensors to measure respiration rate in both species and recently completed studies conducted in controlled environment chambers. This continues to build on previous findings reported from this laboratory. B. Other Significant Accomplishment(s): A literature review of swine heat and moisture production was completed and documents the need for additional effort to update current standards published by ASAE and ASHRAE. This effort is
required as a result of genetic developments in swine and resulting effects on ventilation systems since current standards developed in the 1960's. C. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations: None. D. Progress Report: Livestock safety monitor: The initial monitor was designed and built on the basis of respiration rate data collected in 2001. A preliminary report was given and an additional unit is being constructed for use at a cooperator site. Genotype heat stress study: A second year of data collection on the effects of genotype on the heat tolerance of feedlot heifers is near completion. A comparison of modeling types (fuzzy logic and regression based) to predict respiration rate response of heat stressed feedlot cattle was based on genotype and four weather parameters. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Our research program has demonstrated temperature thresholds for cattle and
swine that are based on dynamic measurements of animal response. Thresholds have been established using linear and non-linear statistical methods and serve as decision-making tools for livestock producers to manage thermal challenges. Examples include temperature thresholds for growth of medium and high lean gain swine and feed intake, respiration rate and body temperature thresholds for cattle. Results from this CRIS have led to extended research among collaborators in a regional committee, several state extension programs and international laboratories (Australia, South America and Mexico). 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? First Year: The calorimeter system will be renovated to include four chambers and a new indirect expansion cooling system. A livestock safety monitor (LSM) will be tested among selected cooperators. The LSM will provide feedlot specific real-time stress estimates to aid producers in responding to potential heat stress
conditions. A feedlot shade and soil surface research facility will be developed. Second Year: The LSM will be updated, based on expanded use with additional breeds over wider environmental conditions. A project will be completed to determine the factors affecting heat stress in feedlot cattle. Factors to be evaluated are genotype (bos taurus breeds), color, prior health status, weight, and condition. Third Year: Initial feeding equipment and animal response tests will be completed in the feedlot shade and soil surface research facility. 7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Three presentations entitled "Effects of high environmental temperatures on growing-finishing swine," "Living with climatic variability and potential global change:
climatological analyses of impacts on livestock performance," and "Weather data processor using commercial weather station system to generate cattle livestock safety index," were made to scientists, biometeorologists, and extension educators at the 16th International Congress of Biometeorology in Kansas City, MO. A presentation entitled "Heat stress climatic conditions and the physiological responses of cattle" was presented to engineers, producers, dairy scientists, and extension educators at the Fifth International Dairy Housing Conference in Ft. Worth, TX. A presentation was given to students in the Animal Science Department of the University of Queensland in Gatton, Australia, and to students in the Biological Systems Engineering Department of the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, NE. Both presentations to students dealt with measurement and interpretation of physiologic responses of livestock to thermal stressors. Three presentations on beef cattle responses to thermal
challenges were made to scientists, producers, and extension educators at the annual ASAE meeting in Las Vegas, NV. Titles included "Development of a livestock safety monitor for cattle," "Relative heat tolerance among cattle of different genetics," and "Evaluating modeling techniques for livestock stress prediction." Discussed stress related research and shared research findings with scientists at the W-173 Farm Animal Stress Meeting in Council Bluffs, IA.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- HAHN, G.L., MADER, T.L., HARRINGTON, J.A., NIENABER, J.A., FRANK, K.L. LIVING WITH CLIMATIC VARIABILITY AND POTENTIAL GLOBAL CHANGE: CLIMATOLOGICAL ANALYSES OF IMPACTS ON LIVESTOCK PERFORMANCE. 2003. AMERICAN METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY. p. 45-49.
- Kerr, B.J., Yen, J.T., Nienaber, J.A., Easter, R.A. Influences of dietary protein level, amino acid supplementation and environmental temperature on performance, body composition, organ weights and total heat production of growing pigs. Journal of Animal Science 2003. v. 81. p. 1998-2007.
- NIENABER, J.A., HAHN, G.L. EFFECTS OF HIGH ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURES ON GROWING-FINISHING SWINE. AMERICAN METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY. 2003. p. 116-121.
- NIENABER, J.A., HAHN, G.L., BROWN BRANDL, T.M., EIGENBERG, R.A. 2003. HEAT STRESS CLIMATIC CONDITIONS AND THE PHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF CATTLE. PROC. , FIFTH INTERNATIONAL DAIRY HOUSING CONFERENCE. 255-262.
- WU, J., PARKHURST, A., ESKRIDGE, K., TRAVNICEK, D., BROWN BRANDL, T.M., EIGENBERG, R.A., HAHN, G.L., NIENABER, J.A., MADER, T., SPIERS, D. COMPARING CORRELATED PARAMETER ESTIMATES FOR NONLINEAR PET MODEL. MEETING ABSTRACT. 2003. PROCEEDINGS 35TH ANNUAL KSU CONFERENCE ON APPLIED STATISTICS IN AGRICULTURE. APRIL 27-29.
- EIGENBERG, R.A., BROWN BRANDL, T.M., NIENABER, J.A. DEVELOPMENT OF A RESPIRATION RATE MONITOR FOR SWINE. TRANSACTIONS OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERS. 2002. v. 45(5). p. 599-1603.
- Freetly, H.C., Nienaber, J.A., Brown Brandl, T.M. 2002. Relationship between aging and nutritional controlled growth rate on heat production of ewe lambs. Journal of Animal Science. 80:2759-2763.
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., JONES, D.D., WOLDT, W.E. EVALUATING MODELING TECHNIQUES FOR LIVESTOCK STRESS PREDICTION. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRI ENGINEERS SPECIAL MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES PAPERS. 2003. PAPER NO. 034009.
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., NIENABER, J.A., EIGENBERG, R.A., FREETLY, H.C., HAHN, G.L. THERMOREGULATORY RESPONSES OF FEEDER CATTLE. JOURNAL OF THERMAL BIOLOGY. 2003. v. 28. p. 149-157.
- BROWN BRANDL, T.M., NIENABER, J.A., EIGENBERG, R.A., MORROW, J.L., DAILEY, J.W., MADER, T.L. RELATIVE HEAT TOLERANCE AMONG CATTLE OF DIFFERENT GENETICS. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRI ENGINEERS SPECIAL MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES PAPERS. 2003. PAPER NO. 034035.
- EIGENBERG, R.A., HAHN, G.L., BROWN BRANDL, T.M., NIENABER, J.A. WEATHER DATA PROCESSOR USING COMMERCIAL WEATHER STATION SYSTEM TO GENERATE CATTLE LIVESTOCK SAFETY INDEX. AMERICAN METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY, 2002. pg 93.
- EIGENBERG, R.A., NIENABER, J.A., BROWN BRANDL, T.M. DEVELOPMENT OF A LIVESTOCK SAFETY MONITOR FOR CATTLE. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AGRI ENGINEERS SPECIAL MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES PAPERS. 2003. PAPER NO. 032338.
- FREETLY, H.C., NIENABER, J.A., BROWN BRANDL, T.M. RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGING AND NUTRITIONALLY CONTROLLED GROWTH RATE ON HEAT PRODUCTION OF HEIFERS. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE. 2003. v. 81. p. 1847-1852.
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