Genesis of Antibiotic Resistance (AR) XXXIV: Effective implementation of preventive measures in Feed Lot/Feed Yard or Caged Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO's) mitigate particulate matter (PM) induced AR pandemic (ARP)
Authors: Villarreal Diego , Fuentes Liliana , Balino Armando , Cervantes Karla , Fernandez Alayza , De Los Santos Ludwig , Espinoza Ivan , Huerta Jose , Gayton Edith , Clark Stephanie , Ledezama Claudia , Kannan Subburaj 
Published: June 2021

PM originating from large‐scale beef cattle feed yards was shown to spread antibiotics, antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) to tetracycline, and ruminant‐associated microbes (EHP. 2015:123:337–343). To acquire firsthand information on the industrial practice of implementing preventive measures to minimize or avoid the PM, we have undertaken an in‐depth field survey at a Feed yard Z, (Name withheld), Quemado, Texas. 16,000 cattle reside in feedlot, which is obtained mainly from Mexico and around the area. Upon arrival, cattle were first weighed and put into pins for about ten days by the cowboys. Cattle housing is calculated based on 1 cattle for every 10 acres. Prophylactic medication was administered and observed for a period of time prior to releasing into the home pin. Cattle are fed a mixture of molasses, corn, proteins, and hay. The cattle are checked for their well being every single day during the early morning and evening by the cowboys at the feedlot. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) appointed a veterinarian to monitor the feeding regimen, health, and overall sanitary conditions of the feed yard on a regular basis and to document it. We have observed that animals grazing pattern were in accordance with the stipulations presented during the review. Though the antibiotics such as monensin and tetracycline antibiotics used in feed yards on a regular basis, our inquiry determined that is not the case. Formation of PM is a complex reaction resulting from the reactions of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other organic matters such as antibiotics. The United States Environmental Protection Agency defines the PM sizes, as PM10 (inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller); and PM2.5 (fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller). As per the National Weather Service, on an average, the wind flow speed pattern in this location is Wind ESE 9 MPH, Visibility 7 mi, and barometer 30.15 inches. Formation and transport of PM are dependent on temperature inversion, frontal activities (wind velocities subjected to surface and atmospheric turbulence), differential distribution in downwind (carry more PM – density dependent) vs. upwind, geographical point, and finally the dynamic flex of atmospheric moisture with reference to the altitude. Though, our effort to obtain epidemiological data on PM induced spread infectious diseases compared to the regions devoid of feedlots in Texas were unsuccessful, we were able to discern that the biggest risk factor in raising the cattle in the big housing pins are the flies and the organic wastes generated especially during the summer. Effective measures as Biological Integrated Insect Control (BIIC) programs as a part of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs are implemented as per the need. Upon identification, sick cattle are isolated and housed in hospital pens that are managed by cowboys who are highly trained. We have been advised that multitude of agencies such as Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Texas Water Development Board, TCEQ and USEPA are involved in monitoring the environment, animal welfare, and industry standards. Taken together, it is concluded that implementation of measures would possibly mitigate the PM induced ARP. However, aforesaid contributing factors for the formation of PM are a serious cause for concern in a mass CAFO such as Lubbock, Texas and Oklahoma and developing countries.

Support or Funding Information

Supported by RISE ‐ high‐impact practices in the learning environment – SWTJC and professional development funds to Subburaj Kannan

This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2018 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal.