‘Burp and Fart’ Study Could Help Greeley Smell Better Someday

Thanks to a new study designed to decrease animal flatulence, someday it may be possible to drive through Greeley, Colorado, without holding your breath.

Scientists in New Zealand recently unveiled a new breeding program for livestock that they hope will limit greenhouse emissions. Researchers separated three generations of sheep based on their output of methane from burping and farting. They are now selectively breeding the animals who emit lower levels of methane.

Along with reducing emissions, the study projects that energy saved by animals who generate less gas will increase production for ranchers.

"Research indicates that up to 40 percent or more of the feed energy lost in methane from livestock can be captured and put to productive purposes," the report said.

Similar projects are underway in the United States. If selective breeding programs can keep cattle from burping and farting, the sweet smell of success might be a little less pungent in towns like Greeley.