Nutrient Management

Nutrient management issues associated with the poultry industry are important for many reasons. Foremost is the collective desire of the public and poultry industry to maintain environmental quality. Secondarily, these impinge on the perception of the industry by the public and the sustainability of poultry farms in America. Enclosed in this site are some references and educational resources to assist the public, industry and government better understand and manage these nutrients. Contact Paul H. Patterson for more information about these programs.

Alternative Energy Solutions
Alternative energy solutions for poultry farms can include burning litter as a substitute for propane, thereby reducing litter application to fields saturated with phosphate and potash. This strategy can reduce grower expenses, improve brooding conditions, and allow for recycling litter ash nutrients instead of land application in sensitive watersheds. Litter ash minerals including calcium, phosphorus, and potash can be recycled as both plant and animal mineral supplements. See the following links for more information:

Turkey Litter as an Alternative Brooding Fuel (PowerPoint)

PSU Poultry Scientists help turkey producer to reduce energy costs while enhancing animal well-being and environmental sustainability. (youtube video)

National Poultry Waste Management Symposium
Since 1988, the National Symposia have been held biennially to communicate the latest technology and information regarding poultry production and processing waste management.

Vegetative Buffers for Poultry & Livestock Farms Field Day
June 15, 2010, Oley, Pa.
Sponsored by
PA Landscape and Nursery Association
PennAg Industries Association
The Pennsylvania State University

Pictures from the Field Day

Presentations:

Status of Animal Ag, ACRE, and the Odor Site Index - Bob Mikesell, Penn State Department of Dairy & Animal Science

Economic Value and Sustainability of Animal Ag in PA - Mike Hulet, Penn State Department of Poultry Science, and Clyde Myers, PA NRCS, Berks Co.

What Can Vegetative Buffers Do for Poultry Farms? - Paul Patterson, Penn State Department of Poultry Science

The 1, 2, 3 of Establishing Vegetative Buffers on Poultry & Livestock Farms - Ricky Bates, Penn State Department of Horticulture

Plant Materials for Vegetative Buffers - Shawn Belt, USDA NRCS, Beltsville, MD

Our Experience with Buffers on the Shore - Jim Passwaters, Delmarva Poultry Industry, Inc., Georgetown, DE