Objective
Compare measurable environmental gas levels and environmental conditions in three GF barns located on one site using a control barn and two barns treated with Healthy Farms remediation products (AgraSphere and AgraSlat).
Site Selection
The farm site has three barns of similar design GF facility owned and operated by the same entity. The barns have curtain walls that are controlled electronically. The site has a long-term lease on the facility with a large swine integrator. The facility is 8 years old, structurally sound, with good interior production equipment. The swine flow is of similar genetics, constant nutritional inputs, and under the same management.
Environmental Notions Results
Numbers were given to environmental notations on each visit. The number system was 1 through 10 with 1 being no concerns, 3 better than expected, 5 being normal expected barn conditions, 7 being some concerns, and 10 being extreme conditions detrimental to health.
ENVIRONMENTAL GAS LEVELS RESULTS SUMMARY
| Environmental Gases | AgraSlat | Control | AgraSphere |
| Ammonia NH3 Levels | Decreased 58.1% | Increased 22% | Decreased 52% |
| Hydrogen Sulfide Internal Levels | NS | NS | NS |
| Hydrogen Sulfide External Levels | NS | NS | NS |
Conclusion
While the barn was had no extraordinary odor, ammonia was significantly reduced. Crusting and insect levels were also measured and improved significantly. Hydrogen sulfide did not change in either barn but due to it being soluble in water until physically agitated, it’s unlikely to be able to measure differences until agitation.