The Heisler family, poultry farmers, have found that composting their chicken manure with a Brown Bear aerator has significantly improved their operation.
- Originally, the manure had to be removed weekly. Now, with composting, material handling is reduced to three times a year: July, October, and April.
- The aerator turns and mixes the compost in windrows, which are long piles of organic material.
- Initially, the windrows are smaller and require a single pass with the aerator. As the windrows grow to their maximum size (3 feet high and 6-7 feet wide at the base), two passes are needed: one to mix and one to consolidate and clean up.
- Even with two passes, an aeration cycle takes less than 45 minutes for the farm’s largest henhouse.
- The loader works at a speed of 2-3 miles per hour, which is efficient for turning the compost while minimizing dust.
The Heislers have experienced several benefits from this composting system:
- Reduced labor: The single skid loader used for the Brown Bear aerator can also be used for other tasks, such as handling a light-material bucket, an excavating bucket, and a set of forks. This versatility reduces capital costs and means one operator can handle the entire process.
- Durability and low maintenance: In three seasons of use, the only expense on the Brown Bear aerator has been the initial purchase price. The family does plan to change paddles, rotor teeth, and wear plates eventually, but the machine has proven reliable.
- Improved public relations: Composting has greatly reduced the fly problem that is common with poultry farming. This has made the farm a better neighbor, particularly for the family living nearby. While it’s difficult to completely eliminate flies, they are no more of a problem for the Heislers than for the average homeowner.
Overall, the Brown Bear aerator has proven to be a valuable investment for the Heisler farm, providing practical and environmental benefits.
