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Grazingland Animal Nutrition Lab

Laboratory offering decision support for better nutritional management of livestock and stewardship of natural resources

  • GAN Lab: Grazingland Animal Nutrition Laboratory
    • GAN Lab Services
    • FNIRS/NUTBAL Sampling Contracts for USDA/NRCS Customers
    • Pricing and Sampling Information
    • Additional Information on Nutritional Monitoring
    • GAN Lab FAQ
    • Lab Staff
    • Contact Us
  • Decision Support Systems
    • NIRS: Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy
    • NUTBAL: Livestock nutrition balance decision support system
    • FRAMS: Forage risk assessment management system
    • BRASS: Burning risk assessment support system
    • LMIS: Livestock marketing information system
    • PestMan: Brush and weed management decisions for Texas and New Mexico
    • PHYGROW: Phyto mass growth model
  • Projects
    • USDA Forest Service BRASS: Burning Risk Advisory Support System
    • Mali Livestock and Pastoralist Initiative
    • Mongolia LEWS: Livestock Early Warning System
    • East Africa LEWS: Livestock Early Warning System
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GAN Lab Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

What is Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) and how is it used by the GAN Lab?

Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) is a technique used to determine the chemical composition of materials. The GAN Lab uses the NIRS to analyze fecal samples, providing information on diet quality and digestibility to help optimize management practices. More information is available here.

What is NUTBAL and how does it complement the NIRS analysis?

NUTBAL is a Nutrition Balance Analyzer software used by the GAN Lab in conjunction with the fecal NIRS (FNIRS) analysis. It incorporates the outputs of the FNIRS analysis with animal and environmental descriptions to provide insights into nutritional status. NUTBAL is strategic on making informed decisions on animal management, including projected weight or body condition gain/loss, and supplemental feeding strategies. More information is available here.

What is the FNIRS/NUTBAL System, and how does it benefit me?

The FNIRS/NUTBAL System combines the outputs of the FNIRS analysis with animal and environmental descriptions to inform the NUTBAL software. This system helps optimize decisions on management by estimating weight and body condition gain/loss, helping producers to determine the timing of stocking rate, pasture rotation, or supplemental feeding strategies, and suggesting types and amounts of supplemental feed to achieve performance goals.

What services does the GAN Lab offer?

NIRS/NUTBAL Standard Report ($45): This baseline service is recommended for individuals comfortable with inputting data and interpreting animal nutrition outputs.
NIRS/NUTBAL Advisory ($80): Recommended for those new to animal nutrition analysis or seeking more information and feedback on the fecal NIRS/NUTBAL results.
RESEARCH: We have historically offered several different analysis packages for researchers based on: a) the needs of the experiment, b) the level of collaboration desired, and c) budget considerations.
Please contact us for research pricing.

How can I pay for my sample analysis?

We offer two payment options for sample processing: online payment with a credit card or receiving an invoice after the samples have been processed for payment by check. Please do not mail payments with your submitted fecal samples.
ONLINE PAYMENT:  Please write your Order Number in the notes section of your sample submission forms. The ORDER NUMBER will be provided after the payment is processed.
INVOICE (Requires the Customer Information Form):  Invoices are sent after each sample is processed. If you have not yet completed a Customer Accounting Form, please return the filled form via mail or email, or call us to complete it over the phone. Reports will be sent once the form is completed.
To ensure the quickest possible sample processing, please complete the GAN Lab customer information form, which also serves as a substitute for a W-9.

How do I collect and submit manure samples for analysis?

The process is simple:
Step 1: Request a fecal sample kit: Contact us by phone or email (ganlab@brc.tamus.edu) to request a fecal sample kit. The kit includes instructions and materials for collecting and mailing your sample.
Step 2: Prepare your sample to mail: Follow the provided instructions to collect your sample and prepare it for mailing.
Step 3: Mail in your sample: Send your prepared sample to the address provided in the kit. Once received, our lab will conduct the analysis and provide you with the results.

When should I expect to receive the results?

The GAN Lab is dedicated to delivering prompt results to our clients because we understand how crucial it is to receive the results in time for management decisions. Usually, you can expect to receive results within 2-4 business days after the lab receives the sample. However, this timeframe may vary depending on factors such as sample volume, lab workload, and shipping logistics.

Can the NIRS/NUTBAL System be applied to different types of animals and grazing environments?

Yes, the NIRS/NUTBAL System can be applied to ruminants like cattle, sheep, goats, and wildlife, as well as non-ruminants like horses. It is also applicable for different grazing environments, ranging from pasture-based systems to more intensive production systems.

Can the NIRS/NUTBAL System contribute to identifying nutritional challenges and optimizing feeding programs?

Yes, the NIRS/NUTBAL System is a tool for producers, managers, and consultants to make informed feeding and grazing decisions. Whether you’re dealing with inadequate weight gain, poor body condition, or other performance challenges, the insights provided by this system can help identify nutritional imbalances and recommend interventions to address them effectively.

How frequently should clients send fecal samples to be analyzed?

The frequency of fecal sample analysis depends on various factors, including the specific needs of your management program, seasonal changes in forage quality over the year, and any observed changes in animal performance. Our team can work with you to develop a strategy that aligns with your goals and circumstances.

Can the NIRS/NUTBAL System be used for long-term monitoring of grazing management practices?

Yes, by regularly analyzing fecal samples and tracking changes in the diet composition and nutritional status of the animals over time, managers can access the effectiveness of their grazing management strategies and make informed adjustments as needed to optimize animal health and performance.

How can I get in touch with the GAN Lab for more information or to inquire about services?

For more information about the services offered by the GAN Lab, or to inquire about submitting samples for analysis, clients can contact the lab directly via phone or email.
Phone: (254) 774-6134
Email: ganlab@agnet.tamu.edu

 

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