Agronomic Characteristics of the Compost-Bedded Pack Made with Forest Biomass or Sawdust

To ascertain the agronomic value of material resulting from compost-bedded pack (CBP) in dairy barns, a cross-over experiment was designed with eight dry non-pregnant Holstein cows. The study performed two 11-week periods. Bedding materials used were: (1) CBP sawdust (S) and (2) forest biomass (FB). Samples were taken raw bedding across experiment. We conducted an additional preparing piles, one each material, to accomplish composting process 3 months, where samples also taken. Granulometry some chemical composition characteristics FB made it suitable be as CBP, but its high moisture content limited ability absorb liquid manure. Both degree stability organic matter temperature evolution suggest that real did not occur. Finally, piles lead any relevant change materials. From point view, S present potentially valuable regards amendment soil, thanks their low nutrient content.