During the past several years, considerable attention has been directed at the potential environmental impacts of agriculture in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. A primary focus has been on the potential nutrient loadings to surface and groundwater resulting from animal agriculture sources. In this context, a wide array of alternative practices and uses have been suggested to reduce the effects of current manure management practices. The objectives of the Animal Nutrition Technology Exchange were to engage participants in discussions to: Assess the current science-based technology available to produce cost-effective animal feeds that minimize the nutrient content of animal manures at the point of excrement; Assess the current level of adoption of these technologies by feed producers; Identify and assess the barriers to adoption and utilization of nutrient reduction feeding strategies by farmers; and Identify the technology needs required to accelerate the adoption and utilization of appropriate reduction strategies in animal agriculture in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.

Summary of the proceedings of the conference, held Jan. 20, 2000, in Frederick, Maryland.