The primary difference between a cage layer manure and broiler and turkey manure is that the broiler and turkey manure is diluted with litter material. Under most circumstances this results in a manure containing mixture that is easier to handle because it is usually drier and has fewer problems with odor and insect control than pure manure. When this material is used as a fertilizer and soil conditioner, the dilution of the manure with the litter material should be considered. An analysis of the used litter for nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium should be used as the basis for the application rate to soils. In most cases, the dilution of the manure with litter means that substantially higher rates of application of the used litter can be used than those previously suggested for cage layer manure. However, these application rates should not exceed those that would contribute significantly to nitrate levels in ground or surface water supplies or those that relate to sound agronomic practices.
Reasonably dry poultry litter can also be used as a fuel with other fuel sources for combustion to provide heat for broiler or turkey brooding. The composting or ensiling of used poultry litter for feeding to ruminants may be an option where drugs used in broiler and turkey growing diets do not pose a problem for function of the rumen or result in tissue residues in the ruminant animal. Proper composting of used poultry litter can also yield a stable product for use as a fertilizer, soil amendment and mulch in gardens, greenhouses and production of specialty crops.
Good ventilation in the poultry house and stirring of the litter on the floor will help control moisture levels and release of ammonia from the accumulating manure-litter mixture. Water spillage or runoff drainage should be avoided.
The guidelines offered here are general. They are not regulations or standards and therefore must be adapted for use under specific conditions to meet specific concerns. Clearly, the rate of manure application to land depends on the level of concern being expressed as well as many other factors that apply to the specific farm operations and location. The farm manager has an important responsibility for the management of poultry manure in the poultry house and for its disposal or utilization.