Ammonia emissions and dispersion from broiler production
Lowry A Harper1, Casey W Ritz2, Thomas K Flesch3
1Harper Consulting Co., P.O. Box 772, Watkinsville, GA, 30677, USA.
Journal of Environmental Quality
|April 9, 2021
Summary
Ammonia (NH3) emissions from broiler poultry operations vary seasonally, especially in the eastern US. Ambient humidity and litter management are key factors influencing these emissions, not just location or density.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Agricultural Science
- Animal Science
Background:
- Ammonia (NH3) emissions from poultry operations are a frequent cause of nuisance complaints, impacting rural development.
- Conflicting data exists regarding NH3 emission rates from broiler production across the United States.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare seasonal NH3 emission rates from a Georgia broiler operation.
- To compare these rates with data from other geographical areas in the US.
Main Methods:
- Field measurements of NH3 emissions from a broiler operation.
- Seasonal data collection.
- Geographical comparison with existing US data.
Main Results:
- Significant seasonal variation in NH3 emissions was observed for eastern US sites.
- Minimal seasonal variation in NH3 emissions was found in the semi-arid US region.
- Differences in management practices, temperature, or animal density did not fully explain regional emission variations.
Conclusions:
- Ambient humidity and litter management practices are critical factors influencing NH3 generation in broiler operations.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for mitigating NH3 emissions and addressing rural development conflicts.
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