New PE short course targets swine design engineers

COLUMBIA, Mo.–The University of Missouri Extension Commercial Agriculture (CA) Program is offering a new three-day seminar for swine producers and design engineers this fall, titled “PE Short Course – Design and Construction of Livestock Manure Systems to Meet MDNR Regulations.”

The PE short course runs Nov. 14-16 at the MU Bradford Research and Extension Center near Columbia.

The seminar will help producers understand new regulations regarding design and mechanics of manure storage structures. Joe Zulovich, CA swine focus team leader, has developed a short course to incorporate the new confined animal feeding operation (CAFO) regulations from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources that became effective April 30, 2012.

The PE short course targets design engineers who will be designing and overseeing construction of livestock manure systems in Missouri. The course offers up to 21 PDH credits that can be earned by registered professional engineers. Of the 21 PDH credits, 17 PDH credits are taught by registered professional engineers.

The Nov. 14 program will begin with a presentation on the evolution of manure management in Missouri by John Hoehne, P.E., MU agricultural engineer, and an overview of animal manure systems by Zulovich.

Wednesday’s agenda continues with sessions covering familiarity with rules and regulations, site selection concerns, and initial feasibility analysis of new or expanding operations. On Thursday, Nov. 15, the mechanics of sizing manure storage structures will be covered in the morning session. The afternoon session will focus on operational feasibility of proposed designs. The Nov. 16 agenda will cover designing manure storage structures and completing the required application.

The course begins at 9:25 a.m. on Nov. 14 and adjourns at 3:05 p.m. on Nov. 16. Pre-registration is requested by Nov. 5. To pre-register or obtain additional information, contact Sandy Zaring at [email protected] or 573-882-2731. The $295 fee includes lunches, break refreshments and course materials. The fee must be paid by check.