Under what amount of poultry manure is a nutrient balance sheet not required?

A nutrient balance sheet is a critical component of nutrient management for agricultural operations, particularly for those utilizing poultry manure as a fertilizer. It helps to ensure that the amount of nutrients being added to the soil through manure application does not exceed the needs of the crops being grown, which can minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable farming practices.

In Pennsylvania, the regulations state that a nutrient balance sheet is not required when the amount of poultry manure applied is less than 5 tons per year. This threshold is established to streamline the management process for small operations that may not pose a significant risk of nutrient runoff or excessive application. Below this limit, the complexity and administrative burden of maintaining a nutrient balance sheet may not be justified, as the potential nutrient contributions from such a small amount are likely manageable through basic agronomic practices.

This regulation helps farmers maintain compliance while allowing for practical flexibility in their nutrient management strategies, particularly for those with smaller-scale operations.