Fermentation and Utilization of Broiler Litter Ensiled at Different Moisture Levels

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Abstract
The feasibility of ensiling broiler litter alone or with added moisture was evaluated by measuring fermentation characteristics, nitrogen utilization and ration digestibility. Wood shaving broiler litter was ensiled in small, laboratory silos at moisture levels of 15.6 (no water added), 20, 30, 40 and 50%. Optimum fermentation was approached at 40% moisture, as measured by pH and levels of lactic acid, acetic acid and water-soluble carbohydrates of the silages. Coliform bacteria were eliminated by ensiling at 20 to 50% moisture. In a subsequent large-scale study, litter was ensiled alone (22% moisture) or with added water to elevate the moisture to 40%. In the silage containing 40% moisture, active fermentation occurred, and coliforms were eliminated. Twenty-four wethers were used in a metabolism study to evaluate rations supplemented with: 1) dry heat processed litter (260 C at a depth of 1.3 cm for 30 min); 2) 22% moisture litter silage; 3) 40% moisture litter silage; or 4) soybean meal. Supplements supplied 50% of the nitrogen in the experimental rations. Calculated TDN was equalized among rations by varying quantities of corn cobs and corn sugar. Nitrogen retention was lower (P<.01) for the ration supplemented with processed litter. Digestion coefficients were not significantly different among the three rations supplemented with litter, but values for dry matter and crude fiber were higher (P<.05) than for the ration supplemented with soybean meal. Copyright © 1978. American Society of Animal Science . Copyright 1978 by American Society of Animal Science.

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