Poultry litter can be utilized as a fertilizer for pastureland and cropland and is recognized as an excellent source of the plant nutrients nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). In addition, litter returns organic matter and other nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and sulphur to the soil, building soil fertility and quality.
Any financial valuation of poultry litter would be dependent on the market value of the N, P, K, and other plant nutrients that the litter is replacing, organic matter as a soil amendment, and the nutrient needs of the crops and fields receiving the litter.
Josh Payne, PhD, Oklahoma State University
