CAREER: CAS-Climate: Assessing Manure Management and Climate Emissions on Animal Feeding Operations via Satellite Remote Sensing

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $549,858 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

How animal farms manage manure significantly affects environmental sustainability and public health. Across the U.S., farms primarily use lagoon systems to store and treat manure. Improving lagoon water quality and reducing greenhouse gas emissions are critical challenges facing the animal agriculture industry. This project combines advanced satellite remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and field-based data collection to better understand the drivers of lagoon conditions and the effectiveness of manure management practices. The outcomes are targeted to support sustainable manure management strategies, reduce environmental impacts, and optimize nutrient recycling. Additionally, the project will inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals through hands-on research opportunities and will provide evidence-based management recommendations to stakeholders. Promoting sustainable manure management practices requires a comprehensive evaluation of lagoon performance on a regional scale, addressing the current gaps in knowledge due to the variability of lagoon systems across farms and seasons. This project leverages satellite imagery, machine learning, and metagenomics to analyze lagoon conditions and greenhouse gas emissions across diverse climates and farming systems. By constructing a robust database of lagoon characteristics, (1) the study aims to quantify variability in water quality and emissions from lagoons at the state level, (2) assess historical trends i

Key facts

NSF award ID
2443174
Awardee
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service (TX)
SAM.gov UEI
DM2CDWR8LAG3
PI
Zong Liu
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CAS-Critical Aspects of Sustainability, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
Estimated total
$549,858
Funds obligated
$467,551
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030