A nearly two-decade-old lawsuit in Oklahoma is drawing attention to the use of poultry litter as fertilizer.
In 2023, a district judge found poultry companies responsible for pollution in Oklahoma’s eastern waterways. The court is now considering measures to help combat that pollution.
A soil scientist with the Oklahoma Conservation Commission took to the stand and claimed that halting the land application of poultry waste is a necessary step to address the watershed issues.
He said that runoff from chicken litter fertilizer has led to elevated phosphorus levels, ultimately depleting oxygen, clouding water, and straining utility systems.
Poultry companies argue that increased transportation of litter out of the state has limited its impact.
Officials say the tool could give Florida citrus growers another option against a disease that has devastated production for decades.
Farmdoc economist estimates 2024 colony stock losses at roughly $175 million, with rebuilding and renovation costs near $161 million.
For dairy producers, that could help support fluid milk use in cafeterias, breakfast programs, and other child nutrition settings.
ASFMRA’s Chad Hertz joins us to discuss farmland trends, economic pressures facing producers, and how outside influences are shaping today’s land market.
“Irresponsible Lending Has No Place in Government Programs,” the U.S. Department of Agriculture said in a press release.
Scouts say yields are landing close to USDA projections as they monitor drought pressure and abandonment concerns.
