Commercial Operations - Waste Management
Commercial Operations - Waste Management
Litter Management
Proper handling and storage of poultry litter are needed to preserve its nutrient value and prevent contamination of surface and groundwater, particularly when litter cannot be directly applied to land. Improper handling and storage of poultry litter can result in:
- Loss of nutrients
- Contamination of surface and/or groundwater
- Potential for the spread of disease
- Odor and aesthetic problems
With a little advance planning and minimal investment, these problems can be reduced or eliminated. It is important to follow any and all national, state, county, and city regulations with regard to the disposal of waste material.
Laws and regulations impacting livestock wastes in Kentucky
Generation and legal regulation of odors from animal manures
Solid livestock waste regulatory requirements
Agricultural water quality act: Your responsibilities as a landowner
The most efficient method of handling poultry litter is to directly apply it to fields as it is being removed from the house. This reduces labor, expense, and potential environmental problems. This requires cleanout when weather and crop conditions are favorable for applying the litter. For cropland, this time will be in the spring before the crop is planted, or in the fall after the crop has been harvested if a small grain or cover crop is to be planted. Application of litter to cropland during the winter should be avoided because the efficient use of nutrients will be low and the potential for water contamination is increased. Apply poultry litter only in amounts needed to supply the nutrient needs of the crop to be grown. Have the litter as well as soil samples from the fields that are to have litter applied tested to determine how much should be applied.
Resources:
Broiler litter production in Kentucky and potential use as a nutrient source
The agronomics of manure use for crop production
Using animal manures as nutrient sources
Livestock waste sampling and testing
Nutrient management in Kentucky
Riparian buffers: A livestock best management practice for protecting water quality
Nutrient management planning guidelines to comply with the Kentucky Agricultural Water Quality Act
Dead Bird Disposal
Mortality and morbidity are, unfortunately, a 'fact of life' in poultry production. It is important to be aware of how to safely (and perhaps profitably) dispose of any dead birds from your flock. Rules regarding carcass disposal may vary from area to area so it is important to verify the regulations in your area.
