V. Stacked Broiler Litter Broiler litter may also be deep stacked . Litter should be stacked at least six feet deep and allowed to heat for at least three weeks or more. Because of the danger of spontaneous combustion, this material should be stacked in an open shed or outside. Outside stacks need not be covered if the damp outer layer is discarded before feeding . Covering stacks with plastic will reduce weather damage.
Beef cow wintering rations offer the greatest potential for the use of stacked broiler litter.
Grain is mixed with the litter to insure adequate consumption, since litter alone would meet the protein and energy needs of wintering cows if they ate enough of it. A small amount of hay or other roughage should also be fed to aid rumen function and prevent rumen compaction. The salt-vitamin supplement given on page 3 should be fed free choice with the rations suggested below for different classes of beef cattle. Feed 24 to 26 lbs. of corn silage top-dressed with or mixed with 10 to 12 lbs. Feed 28 to 30 lbs. of corn silage plus 12 to 13 lbs.