Study Links Arsenic in Found in Runoff to Poultry Litter

First posted on 08-17-2010

Some farmers use chicken litter as a nutrient-rich, free means of fertilizing hay fields and crops. A group of researchers recently conducted a study that showed high levels of arsenic in the runoff from fields where litter was applied to drainage ditches, possibly even migrating into streams and rivers.

Poultry producers sometimes supplement feed with roxarsone, a parasite control substance that aids in weight gain. Roxarsone contains arsenic that is excreted by the birds, becoming part of the sawdust litter mix from poultry houses. Arsenic tends to build up in the soil over time.

The team of researchers measured arsenic levels in farm field runoff in what is known as the Delmarva Peninsula, encompassing portions of Delaware, Maryland and Virginia, and where large poultry farms have been in operation for many years. While arsenic levels varied widely, they were consistently highest in ditches closest to sheds where chicken litter was stored.

The study underscores the need to control sources of arsenic and other chemicals, suggesting that sound management practices need to be adopted to help protect regions from the migration of arsenic and other agricultural chemicals into water sources. Proper storage of litter and immediate spill cleanups would help contain seepage into field runoff.

Dispersion of chicken litter has been an ongoing issue in the Ozarks. Oklahoma has a lawsuit still in progress against a dozen Arkansas poultry producers for dumping litter in the Illinois River watershed. Missouri has also been the recipient of poultry litter from Arkansas farms and from turkey operations in it own state.

Share | |