2009 CSREES National Water Conference; St. Louis, MO On-Farm Economic and Environmental Impacts of Poultry Litter Fertilization

The shift to expanded confined animal operations has led to localized excesses of manure and wastewater by-products, which if improperly managed can contribute to environmental degradation. The purpose of the study was to determine the litter rate that maximized on-farm profit for cultivated crop production. Furthermore, to determine the litter rate that minimizes adverse environmental impact. Annual poultry liter rates of 1-3 tons/acre with supplemental N produced optimum profits. Litter rates in excess of 2-3 ton/acre caused a rapid buildup of soil phosphorus and produced runoff water quality P concentrations greater than TCEQ levels of concern.