Successful use of a disposal pit requires proper on-site location, appropriate design, and quality construction. Location of the pit is critical to avoid contamination of water sources. Disposal pits should be used only at locations where ground water level is well below the pit bottom and where soil type permits good infiltration of effluent from the pit area. The pit itself produces little water, but water seeping into pits can cause problems. Construction should not be on a slope or in an area where water could stand or seep into the pit site.
Larger pits require heavier construction for walls and tops, adding to initial cost.
A useful pit life of 5 years is typical. Large-Bin Composting Testing and adoption of composting as a method for the disposal of poultry carcasses began in Alabama in the late 1980s. Poultry producers have readily accepted the composting of poultry carcasses. Since 1989, Alabama poultry farmers have constructed more than 800 freestanding composters. Using composting methods for disposal has several advantages.