When: Thurs. October 1, 2026
Where: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844
What: Join North Jersey RC&D for a hands-on afternoon in the pasture exploring how dung beetles can support healthier pastures, better manure breakdown, nutrient cycling, and productive grazing systems. We’ll dig into the practical questions that matter on livestock farms: What dung beetles are already working in your pastures? How do grazing and parasite-control practices affect them? And how can farmers intentionally increase dung beetle populations?
During this field day, farmers will:
- Observe and trap dung beetles actively working in the pasture
- Learn about the dung beetle species found throughout our region
- Explore the relationships among grazing management, parasite control, and dung beetle populations
- Discuss practical strategies for balancing livestock health with conservation of beneficial insects
- Learn how farmers can establish and manage their own dung beetle hatcheries, hear on USDA SARE-funded research being conducted by Sneha Haridas
- Take home ideas for using dung beetles as another tool in pasture and livestock management
Registration: Dung Beetle Field Day