AgNext Researchers Receive Western SARE Grant for Air Quality and Dairy Research 

Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) is part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture that provides grants and funding opportunities to farmers, ranchers, researchers, and agriculture professionals. The goal of these grants is to advance farm and ranch sustainability in the western region of the United States. Dairy System Specialist, Dr. Diego Manriquez and doctoral student Afrin Jannat received nearly $30,000 of funding for their proposal to advance air quality and dairy research.   

Dr. Diego Manriquez, Dairy Systems Specialist
Afrin Jannat, Doctoral Student

The project is set to span over two years during which the research team will conduct research at two dairies in Northern Colorado. Throughout the project, the researchers will compare two types of barn designs, installing air quality monitors in various locations throughout the barns, and ultimately making management recommendations from the findings. This research and the recommendations that come from it will be beneficial for enhancing animal productivity and welfare and worker health in dairy systems. Additionally, this research aims to contribute valuable insights into sustainable animal agriculture practices, by making recommendations that are balanced environmentally, socially, and economically

According to the research team, there is limited research looking at air quality standards in dairies and how farming activities might impact the exposure of animals, humans, and the environment to  air pollutants, which makes the funding for this project exciting as targeting farm activities may open opportunities for mitigation strategies and improve air quality in dairy farms. Jannat explained how this research is important because there is evidence that exposure to air pollutants such as particulate matter 2.5 may impact milk production. However, no on-farm air quality monitoring with the sampling frequency and precision we are implementing has been performed, which makes this work novel in the advancement of dairy sciences. During Jannat’s time at AgNext, her research has been focused on monitoring air quality components, particularly air pollutants, to better understand their fluctuations and potential impacts on herd and human health, as well as milk production.  

This grant marks Dr. Manriquez and Jannat’s first major funding achievement. When discussing the project, Jannat explained how receiving the grant marks a pivotal moment in her career, aligning perfectly with her passion for environmental, animal, and human welfare.  

“This funding enables me to implement cutting-edge solutions for enhancing indoor air quality in dairy farms, investing in technology, research, and collaboration with experts. This recognition opens doors to further collaborations, networking opportunities, and invitations to share expertise at conferences and workshops. It’s not just a financial boost, but a career-defining affirmation of my dedication to promoting sustainability, improving animal welfare, and safeguarding human health. I am immensely grateful to my advisors Dr. Manriquez, Dr. Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, and the entire AgNext team for their unwavering support and guidance throughout this period,” said Jannat. 

Afrin has been an integral part of AgNext since 2022 and is on track to complete her doctoral degree in Animal Science and  upon the successful completion of this project, Jannat anticipates completing her degree in 2026. 

AgNext being selected for funding is a testament to the team’s dedication to advancing the science of sustainable animal agriculture and addressing critical issues like air quality in dairies. This innovative research holds promise for improving dairy practices and ensuring the well-being of both livestock and farmers. The AgNext team will continue to provide updates on this exciting project over the next two years.  

References: 

Cows as canaries: The effects of ambient air pollution exposure on milk production and somatic cell count in dairy cows – ScienceDirect 

Picture of Erica Giesenhagen

Erica Giesenhagen

Communication and Outreach Specialist

Picture of Dr. Diego Manriquez

Dr. Diego Manriquez

Dairy Systems Specialist

Picture of Afrin Jannat

Afrin Jannat

Doctoral Student