Reducing phosphorus runoff and improving poultry production with alum

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Animal Science
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Poultry litter management is crucial for environmental protection and farm profitability.
• Ammonia (NH3) volatilization and phosphorus (P) runoff are significant environmental concerns associated with poultry litter.
• Aluminum sulfate (alum) has been investigated as a potential amendment to mitigate these issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of aluminum sulfate (alum) on ammonia volatilization and phosphorus runoff from poultry litter.
• To evaluate the impact of alum on broiler performance and economic outcomes.
• To assess the long-term effects of alum on soil phosphorus levels and aluminum availability.

Main Methods:

• Laboratory studies on P solubility with Al, Ca, and Fe amendments.
• Small plot studies evaluating alum's impact on P runoff and crop yield.
• Field trials on commercial broiler farms assessing NH3 volatilization, broiler performance, and economic benefits.
• Long-term small plot studies on soil P and Al levels.

Main Results:

• Alum significantly reduced P concentrations in runoff (up to 87%) and improved crop yields.
• Alum amendments decreased NH3 volatilization by up to 97% during the initial weeks of growout.
• Broilers on alum-treated litter showed improved weight gain, lower mortality, and better feed efficiency.
• Economic analysis indicated a benefit:cost ratio of 1.96 for alum addition.
• Long-term studies showed reduced soil test P and no increased Al availability or uptake.

Conclusions:

• Aluminum sulfate is a cost-effective amendment for reducing ammonia volatilization and phosphorus runoff from poultry litter.
• Alum application offers significant environmental benefits and improves broiler farm economics.
• The use of alum in poultry litter management is sustainable, with no adverse long-term effects on soil.