Evaluation of In-Vessel Composting for Poultry Mortality

Finding a cost-effective alternative to rendering for the biosecure and environmentally sound disposal of poultry daily mortality was the focus of research conducted by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) in cooperation with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), Cargill Turkey Products, Pilgrim's Pride, and George's Foods. Gary Flory and Dan King of DEQ's Valley Regional Office, Agricultural Program, led the research. After reviewing the available alternatives, DEQ chose to pilot in-vessel composting because it appears to be a cost-effective and practical solution to daily mortality disposal. In addition, the process produces immature compost that may be further processed depending on its intended use. Within Virginia, in-vessel composting was largely untested as a disposal method for daily mortality. Currently, bin composting and incineration are the primary alternatives to rendering for mortality disposal.