more... > Livestock > Poultry > Environmental Concerns > Environmental Issues Facing the Louisiana Poultry Industry Most of us involved in agriculture are aware of environmental concerns related to production agriculture. Regulatory proposals involving animal agriculture, such as poultry production, have caused concerns throughout the poultry-producing area of Louisiana. Sampling Poultry Litter and Soil for Nutrient Analysis [Image: Sampling Poultry Litter and Soil for Nutrient Analysis] Poultry litter and soil testing are the foundation of a sound nutrient management program. Poultry litter testing and soil testing are important best management practices (BMPs), and they are essential components of a comprehensive nutrient management plan (CNMP). This publication includes information on the correct procedures of poultry sampling. Making Poultry Litter Safe for Re-Use [Image: Litter Culvation] The poultry industry is the largest animal agricultural industry in Louisiana and is second only to forestry in total income produced by all agricultural commodities. Louisiana poultry growers produce almost 1 billion pounds of broiler meat each year. The size of the poultry industry in Louisiana has raised concerns about the management of large quantities of litter (mixture of poultry manure and bedding material). Poultry Production Best Management Practices [Image: Poultry Production] Poultry production is the largest animal industry in Louisiana. In poultry production, there are issues of special concern to the environment. Best Management Practices (BMPs) focus on three main areas: Nutrient Management, Pesticide Management and Mortality Management.  more articles... Confined Animal Feeding Operations [Image: Confined Animal Feeding Operations] Louisiana livestock and poultry producers must be aware of certain regulatory issues concerning federal environmental laws. What is Nutrient Management? To understand nutrient management, you must first understand what nutrients are. Nutrients are substances that are essential for plant growth such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (potash). Dead Bird Disposal [Image: Dead Bird Disposal] All commercial poultry producers are required by Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, Livestock Sanitary Board regulation (Lac 7:1171) to obtain a certificate of approval for disposal of dead poultry. Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans [Image: Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plans] A CNMP is a plan that helps you make the best use of manure, fertilizers and other nutrient sources while protecting water resources.