Abstract
The exponential expansion of cattle feeding in the United States during the last decade has created many challenges, among which are the handling and disposal of a by-product, feedlot waste. It can be categorized as solid or semi-solid waste and runoff water for most feedlots, or as a liquid suspension from confined feeding operations. The chemical and pollutional characteristics are variable. Numerous handling and disposal systems are available for management of cattle feedlot waste. The waste disposal system for a commercial feedlot could be characterized as a function of several parameters, such as climate, type of ration and cattle, feedlot surface, and cattle and human population densities, with the solution stated in economic equivalents. Final disposal of feedlot waste has been on the land in most instances. The oxidation ditch and a combination of aerobic and anaerobic systems offer possibilities. Socio-industry relationships might require ultimate disposal of runoff and effluent into streams, with dehydration and/or incineration of the solid waste. Use of feedlot waste as a resource material offers unlimited possibilities as a conservation approach to feedlot waste management. The need for research in feedlot waste management is urgent. Critical evaluations of handling and disposal systems for cattle feedlot waste are needed in the areas of land use, socio-legal-industry relationships, environmental pollution, conservation and economics. Copyright © 1971. American Society of Animal Science. Copyright 1971 by American Society of Animal Science.