Influence of pine and miscanthus biochar on the water activity and moisture sorption isotherms of used broiler litter.

The effect of various inclusion rates of pine biochar (PBC), miscanthus biochar (MCB) and starting moisture contents on the water activity (A) of broiler litter/biochar mixtures was examined. Suitable models for the resulting moisture sorption isotherms were also evaluated. For poultry mixed with PBC and MBC, higher starting moisture contents led to increased A.

Evaluating the Effects of Pine and Miscanthus Biochar on , Total Aerobic Bacteria, and Bacterial Communities in Commercial Broiler Litter.

() is a commensal bacteria found in the gastrointestinal tract of poultry; however, some strains are pathogenic and can cause a wide range of diseases. In addition, some strains of pathogenic can survive in the litter between flocks, making litter management critical for reducing -associated infections. Biochar (BC) is a porous, carbonaceous material that may be a beneficial litter amendment to reduce moisture and microbial loads.

Assessing Class 1 Integron Presence in Poultry Litter Amended with Wood Biochar and Wood Vinegar.

Class 1 integrons are mobile genetic elements that facilitate the spread of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria. The use of prophylactic antibiotics has resulted in the rise of antibiotic resistance genes accumulating in a wide range of settings, including poultry houses and the agricultural fields where poultry litter is applied as a fertilizer. Biochar and wood vinegar are forest products wastes that have generated increasing attention as additives to agricultural soils.

Effects of Loblolly Pine Biochar and Wood Vinegar on Poultry Litter Nutrients and Microbial Abundance.

Biochar, wood vinegar, and poultry litter are waste streams that can be utilized as soil amendments and fertilizers. However, poultry litter releases several pollutants through nutrient leaching and carries heavy microbial loads, including potential human pathogens. Improving nutrient retention and reducing microbial load in poultry litter may help protect environmental and human health and improve its value as a soil amendment.