Success StoryPoultry Litter for Tobacco



Poultry Litter for Tobacco

Author: Jordan Shockley

Planning Unit: Agr Economics

Major Program: Farm Management, Economics and Policy

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

In 2016, a spreadsheet tool was developed to help producers determine the economic value of poultry litter applied to grain crops.  The tool is customizable to reflect each individuals situation when selling, purchasing, and/or applying poultry litter.  In 2021, this tool was utilized by Woodford Co. ANR agent to assess the economic value of poultry litter on 70 acres of tobacco.  The farmer was applying 2 tons per acre of poultry litter and was wondering if it would be cheaper to just purchase commerical fertilzer where needed.  While the tool was not designed specifically for tobacco, the tool was customized to assist the farmer evaluating whether or not they should apply poultry litter or just use commercial fertilizer.  After working with the producer and with the decision tool, the grower decided NOT to apply poultry litter this year.  By not applying and using commercial fertilizer where needed, the producer saved $150 per acre on 70 acres of burley tobacco.  






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