Feed represents the single highest variable input cost in all animal production systems. Efficient and profitable animal production requires development of nutritional strategies that optimize the utilization of ingested nutrients for productive purposes - growth, reproduction, and lactation. It is also imperative that strategies be developed to minimize excretion of nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen that have the potential to adversely impact the environment.

Current research activities include studies to better define mechanisms that control the digestion and absorption of ingested nutrients and their subsequent metabolism. Knowledge gained from these studies will aid in development of whole diets and dietary supplements that maximize the utilization of ingested nutrients. Other activities include study of the role of diet in ameliorating adverse effects of environmental stresses, such as heat stress and ingested, naturally occurring toxicants. As genetic progress is made in such traits as growth rate, carcass leanness, litter size and lactation yield, nutrient requirements are reassessed. And, work is underway to determine the role of diet on intestinal microflora. Results of these studies should aid in development of methods to minimize colonization and proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and their acquisition of antibiotic resistance factors.

Significant efforts are also underway to develop strategies to maximize the utilization of forages in ruminant production systems. These include evaluation of new forages and grazing systems, and development of supplements that best complement the nutrient profiles of available forages.

Research Faculty:

Aaron E. Fisher
W. Warren Gill
Richard N. Heitmann
Clyde D. Lane
Alan G. Mathew
Kelly R. Robbins
Michael O. Smith
John C. Waller