Let’s explore what we know about the relationship between winter ventilation, fuel costs and ammonia, and how together they can greatly impact bird welfare and performance.

Winter Ventilation

The primary goal of winter ventilation is to remove moisture. Increased moisture will increase ammonia generation, creating multiple welfare and performance challenges.

Condemned paws cost the industry $250-300M annually

Body weight losses of 0.50 lbs at 7 weeks have been documented

1/2 pound of weight = $430,000 weekly (based on 1M birds processed)

Ideal

Incoming cold air travels along the ceiling, mixes with warmer air and moisture is properly ventilated.

Static pressure: 0.08 – 0.12

Sidewall vent open: 1 – 2 inches

Relative humidity: 40-60%

Problematic

Cold air immediately falls when entering the house, depositing moisture along the sidewalls.

Static pressure: <0.08

Sidewall vent open: < 1 inch

Relative humidity: < 40 or > 60%

The Role of Litter Amendments

Using PLT^® allows producers to ventilate for moisture, not ammonia, which can create a $400-600 savings per flock due to fuel savings. Less ammonia, moisture and fuel use equals increased animal welfare and sustainability.

Learn more about PLT, the industry’s only leading litter amendment for more than 25 years.

Read More on Ammonia

Managing Respiratory Disease in Antibiotic-Free Operations

Measuring Animal Welfare with Paw Health

The Potentially Costly Relationship Between Ammonia and Moisture

To Control Ammonia You Must First Understand It

The Increased Importance of Ammonia Control in ABF Environments