When it comes to animal housing, manure management requires thought and consideration. Much of this decision depends on the size of the operation, species of animal, and the overall goals of your farming practices. Deep bedding models have become more popular, specifically compost bedded pack barns (CBP) seen in the dairy industry.

A compost bedded pack is a style of deep bedding system that combines a dry, fine litter such as shavings, with the animal's manure, resulting in a favorable environment that slowly composts the manure (Bewley et al., 2012). This style of manure management provides a large space for dairy cattle to rest, and has been reported to reduce odor, results in fewer flies, and improved cow cleanliness to name a few (Bewley et al., 2012). For a CBP to be successful, a new carbon source (Such as shavings or nut hulls) must be added each day to the pack, and the area must be aerated to encourage the bacteria to breakdown the organic matter, resulting in a usable compost once the pack is cleaned out, which typically happens once or twice a year (Bewley et al., 2012).

Deep bedding systems similar to CBP have been used in other livestock industries as well. Poultry producers have used deep bedding systems to achieve a similar goal, as well as swine operations. Chickens consistently scratch and turn the bedding in search of tasty treats, and pigs root through the bedding for similar reasons. A deep bedding system is a favorable environment from an animal welfare perspective as well.

Curious about deep bedding systems and want more information? Watch these videos to learn more:

Compost Bedding Pack Barn	How Joel Salatin Uses Pigs and Chickens to Fertilize His Farm

References

Bewley, Jeffrey & Taraba, Joseph & Day, George & Black, Randi & Damasceno, Flavio. (2012). Compost Bedded Pack Barn Design: Features and Management Considerations. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Publication. ID.