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ARS Home » Northeast Area » University Park, Pennsylvania » Pasture Systems & Watershed Management Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #297736
Title: Effects of subsurface poultry litter application technology on water quality, odor, and corn yield

Author
item ALLEN, ARTHUR - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
item CHEPKETER, NANCY - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
item Kleinman, Peter
item BRANDT, ROBIN - Pennsylvania State University
item MAY, ERIC - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
item HASHEM, FAWZY - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
item KIBET, LEONARD - University Of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
item ELLIOTT, HERSCHEL - Pennsylvania State University
item Bryant, Ray

Submitted to: ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/27/2013
Publication Date: 11/1/2014
Citation: Allen, A., Chepketer, N., Kleinman, P.J., Brandt, R., May, E.B., Hashem, F.M., Kibet, L., Elliott, H., Bryant, R.B. 2014. Effects of subsurface poultry litter application technology on water quality, odor, and corn yield [Abstract]. ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meeting Abstracts. Paper No. 422-3.

Interpretive Summary: An interpretive summary is not required.

Technical Abstract: Impending rules in Maryland will require that poultry litter be incorporated into the soil upon application. For the past five years, we have tested various direct incorporation technologies for poultry litter on Maryland’s coastal plain. Most recently, the USDA-ARS “Subsurfer” has been the focus of experimental and on-farm trials in and around the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Here, we review our experience with the Subsurfer, including results of long-term agronomic and water quality trials, emissions testing, and performance concerns. On the positive front, we have documented increases in corn yields with subsurface application by as much as 25% and major reductions in ammonia and odor emissions, as well, as phosphorus in runoff. However, the effects of subsurface application on nutrient leaching have been mixed, influenced to some degree by experimental methods, and on-farm trials have not yet matched on-station results. Continued strong interest in this technology offer promise in addressing existing trade-offs.