Discover the transformative effects of PitStop Works on hog barn conditions, from ammonia reduction to improved manure quality.
The study found significant reductions in ammonia emissions in the barn treated with PitStop Works compared to the untreated barn. Ammonia emissions were measured at both the pit fans and end wall fans, and the combined values showed an overall reduction of 83% in the treated barn. Over a 60-day period, the treated barn's ammonia levels dropped by 10 ppm more than those in the untreated barn, indicating a substantial improvement in air quality.
The custom manure pumping crew observed noticeable differences between the two barns during the pumping process. The treated barn's manure was easier to stir and pump, suggesting that PitStop Works effectively broke down solids. This efficiency is expected to result in a more uniform and consistent manure application in the fields.
Nutrient values were evaluated before and two months after treatment. The treated barn showed an increase in nitrogen value by 1.6%, and the treated manure had 3.1% higher nitrogen, 6.2% higher phosphorus, and 4.2% higher potassium content than the untreated barn. These results suggest that PitStop Works not only improves air quality but also enhances the nutrient profile of the manure.
At the beginning of the study, both barns had crusting issues in the pits. However, while the untreated barn continued to have a crust, the treated barn showed no crusting when the custom manure pumping crew pumped the manure. This indicates that PitStop Works effectively eliminates crusting problems, leading to easier and more efficient manure management.
Fly populations were consistently lower in the treated barn compared to the untreated barn throughout the study period. Barn managers noted that high fly populations in the untreated barn coincided with crusting issues, which were absent in the treated barn. This finding supports the idea that effective crust management can help control fly populations.