Poultry Litter

Poultry litter is an important source of nutrients for pastures, hayfields, and cropland in Georgia. It is a source of nutrients and micronutrients that plants need, and can also add organic matter to the soil. Poultry litter is usually applied to meet the nitrogen needs of a crop. Over a long period of time this can cause an excess of phosphorus to build up in the soil. Although excess phosphorus does not cause problems with plants, it can cause water quality problems when it moves from the fields into surface waters.

The land application program has worked with the Georgia AWARE Team to promote the wise use of poultry litter. This includes following recommended application rates for a crop, calibrating litter speaders to make sure the correct amount is being applied, developing nutrient management plans, and developing off-farm uses such as composting.

The program has also worked with county extension agents in Northwest Georgia to evaluate poultry litter use in bermudagrass hayfieds. This work looks at forage production, forage quality, changes in soil chemistry, and changes in surface runoff. The goal of this work is to help farmers better understand the effectiveness of poultry litter as a fertilizer and its environmental effects. Further information on this project can be found in our Resources section.