ARS/FAPRU: Environmental Impact Characteristics of Feces from Horses and Cattle Fed similar Diets

The inherent differences in the physical configuration of the digestive tracts of ruminants and hindgut fermenters (e.g. horse) results in differences in the substrate presented for fermentation, regardless of feed provided. This study aims to evaluate this effect of site of fermentation on the subsequent environmental impact potential of feces collected from horses and cattle fed a similar grass/legume forage only diet or a grass/legume forage diet supplemented with grain. The emphasis will be extended beyond nitrogen and phosphorus to include other macro and micro minerals as well.