During three years of testing in the field and at university sites, Barrier was found to reduce hydrogen sulfide gas levels in hog production facilities by up to 75 percent and ammonia levels by up to 40 percent. Produced as a liquid, Barrier is poured directly on top of stored manure to create a barrier that seals in these gases. It also may be added to manure in application equipment before surface application. Studies with varied feed rations, application methods and temperature ranges also showed that Barrier improved odor and air quality. Schoenfeld noted that Barrier works by reducing the odor that emanates from the manure pit in livestock facilities, however, other factors also contribute to livestock odor problems.
Testing continues to determine the effect Barrier has on hog performance and herd health.
Previous industry studies have suggested that improving air quality in containment facilities may help improve the respiratory health of herds, which affects production performance. As a crop-based product, producers do not have to be concerned about adverse chemical reactions when manure containing Barrier reaches their fields. Monthly applications are recommended. The primary market introduction for Barrier is scheduled for this fall in Iowa and Minnesota, with expanded geography scheduled for 2001. Interested producers should contact their dealers for more information.