Composting Turkey Litter between flocks is gaining traction in the US poultry industry. This method offers several benefits, including disease control, improved flock performance, and environmental advantages.
Disease Control
First and foremost, composting litter effectively eliminates many pathogens, such as E. coli, Salmonella, and respiratory viruses. Additionally, it reduces the presence of bacteria like Clostridium perfringens and coccidial oocysts, which can impact bird health. Consequently, this technique has successfully controlled dermatitis, runting and stunting syndrome, and necrotic enteritis in flocks.
Improved Flock Performance
Farms that adopt composting have seen significant improvements in bird livability, weight gain, feed conversion, and overall cost efficiency. For instance, some farms have moved from below-average performance to the top 80th percentile. Even high-performing farms with no disease history have experienced increased production efficiency, likely due to reduced coccidial challenges.
Environmental Benefits
Moreover, composting litter helps address nutrient and waste management concerns associated with poultry production. It reduces the need for frequent bedding replacement. Notably, some poultry companies and agencies like the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) support growers financially to implement this practice.
Composting Turkey Litter Implementation Considerations
However, the effectiveness of composting depends on proper management of ammonia levels, litter moisture, and compost temperatures. Specific guidelines exist for implementing composting in regions like Delmarva, considering factors such as production practices, housing, and climate. Modifications to these guidelines may be necessary for turkey production systems and colder climates.
Conclusion
While Composting Turkey Litter requires an initial investment, the benefits—such as disease control, improved flock performance, and environmental sustainability—make it a worthwhile practice for the poultry industry. By adopting this method, producers can enhance their operations while contributing to a healthier environment.
- Composting Benefits: Learn more about the benefits of composting for poultry producers.
- Innovative Manure Management: Explore innovative manure management solutions.
- Poultry Health Management: Understand effective health management strategies for poultry.
- Composting Poultry Litter: This resource from the University of Nevada discusses the benefits of composting poultry litter, including pathogen reduction and improved soil health. Using Poultry Litter Safely in Home Gardens and Landscapes.
- Oklahoma State University Extension: This page provides guidelines on using poultry litter as fertilizer, emphasizing its nutrient content and environmental benefits. Using Poultry Litter as Fertilizer.
- Grainews – Composting as a Manure Handling Option: This article discusses the advantages of composting manure, including reducing pests and improving soil quality. Grainews – Composting is a Manure Handling Option.
- Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): This link provides information on conservation practices, including composting, that support sustainable poultry production. NRCS – Conservation Practices.
- Benefits of Chicken Litter for Your Garden: This article outlines how composted chicken litter can enhance garden soil, illustrating its benefits beyond poultry operations. Benefits of Chicken Litter for Your Garden.
