For soybean producers, broiler litter is an attractive fertilizer source due to its abundance in SC and its inexpensiveness compared to synthetic fertilizers. The use of broiler litter is also attractive because of its positive impact on soil health and various functions. However, the characteristics of broiler litter are variable and its potential nutrient availability for crop production depends on litter quality and soil factors, necessitating local studies in SC. Our hypothesis is that the use of broiler litter will have a positive effect on soil health and improve soybean productivity and profitability.

1. Evaluate the response of soybean yield to broiler litter application rates (0, 1.5, 3, 4.5, and 6 tons per acre).
2. Determine the effect of broiler litter on soil health parameters.

Outputs will be a better understanding of broiler litter and its fertilizer use values in soybean-corn rotation. The results from this study will be presented to extension agents and producers in field days and winter meetings. This will be the third and last year of the study. At the end of 2023, results will be compiled into an extension article made available for stakeholders and a short (< 5 minutes) YouTube video.
Key Performance Indicators: The ability of the broiler litter to enhance growth and soybean yield will be quantified and analyzed at the end of the field trial. Economic cost/return sheets can be developed to determine how profitable the treatments are.

Soybean yields have increased substantially in recent decades due to better management of improved varieties. In order to sustain high yields, we need to test, find, and use sustainable nutrient management practices. In 2021, fertilizer prices sky-rocketed, and that made producers even more concerned about having profitable crop production. When fertilizer prices are so high, many producers want to rely on animal manure to satisfy crop demands. However, we don’t have proper guidelines for producers to use broiler litter, a commonly available animal manure in SC, to raise productive and profitable crops. In 2022 we continued on-farm broiler litter studies to understand the impact of broiler litter on soybean-corn productivity, profitability, and soil health. The proposed research will generate new information that will make Soybean production more sustainable in South Carolina.