Available Nitrogen in Broiler and Turkey Litter

AVAILABLE nitrogen in broiler and turkey litter was determined using aerobic and anaerobic incubations and the Nitrogen-Meter. The aerobic incubation showed total nitrogen to be potentially about 50% available within a few weeks after application and potentially about 60% available within 8 to 10 months for 4 of the 5 litters. However, one litter had significantly less available nitrogen. Nitrate losses occurred in the litter treatments at about 10 to 15 weeks and could have been due to denitrification or immobilization. Compared to results of the first 8 weeks of aerobic incubation, the Nitrogen-Meter results were generally slightly lower, while the 1-week anaerobic incubation results were generally higher. The three soils used in the incubations had no significant effects.