Diagnostic analysis of fecal samples

NIRS/NUTBAL Standard Report ($35): This baseline service is recommended for individuals comfortable with inputting data and interpreting animal nutrition outputs.

NIRS/NUTBAL Advisory ($45): Recommended for those new to animal nutrition analysis or seeking more information and feedback on the fecal NIRS/NUTBAL results.

Research: We have historically offered several different analysis packages for researchers based on: a) the needs of the experiment, b) the level of collaboration desired, and c) budget considerations.
Please contact us for research pricing.

Water testing and screening

E. coli and Total Coliform Analysis ($40.25): Your report will include results reported as colony-forming units (CFU) for E. coli and total coliform bacteria.

Cyanotoxin Screening ($130): Screening is performed by the Texas A&M Aquatic Diagnostics Laboratory using a qualitative assay designed to detect multiple cyanobacterial hepatotoxins.

For more information about the services offered by the Ranch Diagnostics Lab, or to inquire about submitting samples for analysis, clients can contact the lab directly via phone or email.
Phone: (254) 774-6134
Email: ranchlab@ag.tamu.edu

Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIRS) is a technique used to determine the chemical composition of materials. The Ranch Diagnostics Lab uses the NIRS to analyze fecal samples, providing information on diet quality and digestibility to help optimize management practices. More information is available here.

The FNIRS/NUTBAL System combines the outputs of the FNIRS analysis with animal and environmental descriptions to inform the NUTBAL software. This system helps optimize decisions on management by estimating weight and body condition gain/loss, helping producers to determine the timing of stocking rate, pasture rotation, or supplemental feeding strategies, and suggesting types and amounts of supplemental feed to achieve performance goals.

We offer two payment options for sample processing: online payment with a credit card or receiving an invoice after the samples have been processed for payment by check. Please do not mail payments with your submitted fecal samples.

ONLINE PAYMENT:  Purchase prepaid sampling kits online using Flywire. Each sampling kit includes one sample analysis (Standard or Advisory) and the materials needed for sample collection and submission. Once payment is received, kits will be shipped to the address provided during checkout.

Please retain your order confirmation number and include it with your sample submission paperwork, if applicable.

The process is simple:
Step 1: Request a fecal sample kit: Contact us by phone at (254) 774-6134 or email (ranchlab@ag.tamu.ed) to request a fecal sample kit. The kit includes instructions and materials for collecting and mailing your sample.
Step 2: Prepare your sample to mail: Follow the provided instructions to collect your sample and prepare it for mailing.
Step 3: Mail in your sample: Send your prepared sample to the address provided in the kit. Once received, our lab will conduct the analysis and provide you with the results.

The Ranch Diagnostics Lab is dedicated to delivering prompt results to our clients because we understand how crucial it is to receive the results in time for management decisions. Usually, you can expect to receive results within 2-4 business days after the lab receives the sample. However, this timeframe may vary depending on factors such as sample volume, lab workload, and shipping logistics.

Yes, the NIRS/NUTBAL System can be applied to ruminants like cattle, sheep, goats, and wildlife, as well as non-ruminants like horses. It is also applicable for different grazing environments, ranging from pasture-based systems to more intensive production systems.

Yes, the NIRS/NUTBAL System is a tool for producers, managers, and consultants to make informed feeding and grazing decisions. Whether you’re dealing with inadequate weight gain, poor body condition, or other performance challenges, the insights provided by this system can help identify nutritional imbalances and recommend interventions to address them effectively.

The frequency of fecal sample analysis depends on various factors, including the specific needs of your management program, seasonal changes in forage quality over the year, and any observed changes in animal performance. Our team can work with you to develop a strategy that aligns with your goals and circumstances.

Yes, by regularly analyzing fecal samples and tracking changes in the diet composition and nutritional status of the animals over time, managers can access the effectiveness of their grazing management strategies and make informed adjustments as needed to optimize animal health and performance.

We accept samples from wells, ponds, stock tanks, troughs, storage tanks, and other livestock drinking water sources.

This assay measures indicator bacteria that help evaluate the sanitary quality of livestock drinking water. Detection of E. coli indicates recent fecal contamination and suggests that other disease-causing microorganisms may also be present. It is, however, not a definitive indication as to the safety of the drinking water as there may be other pathogens such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or other livestock pathogens present that this assay does not test for. It is only one indicator of the safety of livestock drinking water and should be used as such.

No. This assay specifically measures total coliforms and E. coli. It does not detect viruses, parasites, chemical contaminants, toxins, or all bacterial species.

No. This service is designed to evaluate livestock water quality and is not intended as a regulatory certification test for human drinking water. Results should not be used to determine whether water is safe for human consumption.