Poultry ManureSmart workshops deliver environmental benefits
20 Oct 2016
Maximising nutrient efficiency while reducing environmental risks associated with storing, transporting and spreading poultry manure is the aim of the newly developed Department of Primary Industries’ (DPI) ManureSmart workshops.
DPI Poultry Development Officer, Byron Stein said that the increase in poultry meat production brings an increase in the amount of poultry manure generated during the rearing of chickens and turkeys.
“To address this issue DPI has teamed up with Fertcare® to deliver accredited training in the responsible use of poultry manure as fertiliser,” Mr Stein said.
“Fertcare is about promoting productivity while protecting the environment and is the key activity in meeting the inorganic fertiliser industry’s objectives to manage any environmental and food safety risks.”
Mr Stein said poultry litter is one of the most beneficial animal manures for use as a fertiliser.
“A ten year DPI research trial conducted on dairy pastures at DPI Tocal College has demonstrated impressive yield responses, even when compared to traditional fertiliser products,” Mr Stein said.
“What makes poultry manure so attractive is its relatively low cost compared to other fertilisers and its ability to increase soil fertility and carbon, soil health and water holding capacity.
“However as with normal synthetic fertilisers it is important to use animal manures responsibly and to minimise potential environmental impacts, such as dust, smell and water pollution when using these products.”
Damien Moss, owner and operator of Tamworth Ground Spreading said the most valuable he took from the workshop is a better understanding of the rules and regulations that apply to using poultry manure as a fertiliser.
“You have the risks of using manure in the back of your head, but the workshop really makes you think about these issues more clearly and brings them front of mind,” Mr Moss said.
“Now that I have attended the workshop, I can advise my clients about how to get a better return when using poultry manure and also how to manage problems by storing and using manure according to best practice.”
The new workshop recently piloted in Tamworth will be rolled out into other major poultry meat growing regions across NSW in 2017.
The project is funded by Poultry CRC, Tamworth Regional Council, Baiada, ProTen and DPI.
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Media contact: Anne Brook (02) 6763 1163 or 0477 358 305
