Cargill supports research into optimizing existing feeding strategies for cows to reduce methane

Cargill has awarded a $1,000,000 grant to Colorado State University's AgNext research program.

Eliza Clark said Cargill's strategy is to develop partnerships and science-based solutions to combat climate change around the world.

Current USDA guidelines for methane emissions from different feeding strategies are based on assumptions and a lack of empirical evidence. AgNext will fill this gap over the next two years by conducting several experimental studies at the university’s Climate Smart Research Facility.

FeedNavigator reported that Kim Stackhouse Lawson, director of AgNext at Colorado State University, will study current feedlot practices and available additives to reduce methane emissions. She will specifically evaluate the impact of ionophores and supplemental fats, as well as grain processing methods, on feedlot diets.

Filling knowledge gaps

She stressed that although these technologies are already in use, no research has been done on the combined effect of their use on reducing methane emissions.

The research will refine baseline emissions estimates by evaluating and improving methane forecasts from feedlot cows. The AgNext executive said the results will provide updated data for the USDA, EPA and the beef industry on the effectiveness of feeding strategies, ensuring an accurate baseline for GHG emissions in the U.S. feedlot industry.

C-Lock's GreenFeed and SmartFeed machines are used in six climate-smart pens, each housing 50 cattle.

SmartFeed machines monitor feed consumption and determine animal consumption. GreenFeed machines also measure methane, oxygen dioxide and hydrogen emissions. Animal growth rate is also evaluated to determine performance and efficiency.

The importance of targeting a wide audience

The researchers do not anticipate significant challenges in scaling up these practices, beyond typical market conditions that affect diet formulation costs and ingredient availability. To reach as many people as possible, the results will be shared through peer-reviewed publications, blogs, podcasts and social media. CSU Extension has also developed fact sheets.

Clark said, "These findings on the effect of ingredients and additives used in beef cattle feed on methane emissions will shape future feeding strategy, helping to advance sustainable practices within the beef industry."

This initiative is aligned with Cargill’s sustainability goals. It includes the BeefUp program, which aims to reduce GHG emissions by 30 % in Cargill’s North American supply chains by 2030. The program will focus on food waste, innovation and grazing management. It is expected to impact more than 5 million acres, improving productivity and profitability for ranchers.