Fall 2024
Research Results
The goal of this research was to inform whether roller-compacted concrete (RCC) is capable of meeting regulatory requirements for groundwater protection as a primary pen liner for use in cattle feeding operations.
Key Findings
When properly designed, installed, compacted, and cured, RCC can meet hydraulic conductivity requirements for use as a primary pen liner in feedlot pens to protect groundwater resources.
Lab results confirm that RCC performance is strongly influenced by its mix design, including aggregate gradation, cement content, and water-to-solid ratio.
Benefits
Improved cattle health, welfare, and growth performance.
Greater operational efficiency in pen management.
Why is this research important for Alberta ag?
Roller compacted concrete (RCC) is increasingly being used as pen floor material in cattle feeding operations. While the physical properties and durability of RCC is known to be comparable to conventional concrete under particular formulations and application conditions, there is uncertainty as to whether the RCC that is being applied to cattle feeding operations can maintain the structural integrity to meet regulatory standards for groundwater protection under the Agricultural Operations Practices Act (AOPA).
This research aims to evaluate the physical properties and durability of RCC installed in Alberta feedlots by optimizing and testing the mixtures in field trials at research sites across Alberta and Saskatchewan.
What benefits can producers expect from this research?
If it can be demonstrated that RCC meets the regulatory standards of AOPA, there would be several advantages realized by the industry:
Advice would be provided to the cattle industry and RCC contractors on the optimal blend, construction, and curing conditions required to maximize the physical durability of RCC in Alberta feedlots, realizing greater value out of investments into RCC as a pen liner
Technical guidelines would be prepared that establish the minimum standard for RCC design and installation to be considered as compliant with regulatory requirements.
How will these research findings reach producers on-farm?
Results will be published via an assessment report, technical guidance documents, as well as a plan to inform broader audiences of confined feeding operators and existing/potential RCC contractors. Operators wanting to use RCC as a liner under AOPA should contact the Natural Resources Conservation Board for guidance.