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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Soil Dynamics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #416500
Research Project: Sustaining Productivity and Ecosystem Services of Agricultural and Horticultural Systems in the Southeastern United States

Location: Soil Dynamics Research

Title: Evaluating ammonia and greenhouse gas emission from poultry manure stockpiles under three storage conditions

Author
item KONETI, S - Auburn University
item PRASAD, R - Auburn University
item CHAKRABORTY, D - Auburn University
item Watts, Dexter
item Torbert, Henry - Allen

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/27/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Unites States (US) poultry industry stands as the largest producer and exporter of poultry products worldwide. Approximately 12.6 million metric tons of chicken litter is generated annually by the poultry heads produced in the US. Poultry manure such as broiler litter (BL) is a good source of nutrients (N, P2O5, K2O). However, it contributes significantly to Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions which has a greater impact on earth’s climate. Manure releases GHGs through various biological processes. Apart from GHGs, BL also releases ammonia (NH3) which affects both air and water quality. Understanding the manure storage conditions and their impact on emissions is essential as different storage methods can influence the rate of GHG and NH3 emissions. This study focused on quantifying the GHG emissions of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O) and (NH3) from the poultry manure heaps during storage under three treatment conditions a) uncovered stockpile, b) covered stockpile (covered with tarpaulin), c) and stockpile under roof. Each heap was 3.5 feet in height and replicated three times at the E.V Smith research station in shorter, Alabama. GHG samples were collected by using static chambers at weekly intervals and NH3 emissions were captured by using acidified sponge trap. We hypothesize that GHG and NH3 emissions differ between storage methods, and the findings will help us determine the best eco-friendly and cost-effective method. Results will be presented at the meeting.