The processor can also more easily pass any increased costs on to consumers. Traditionally poultry manure is applied to the land. Manure contains valuable organic material and nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potash, all crucial to healthy soil and crops. When reapplied to the land in proper proportion, these materials benefit the land in several ways. Manure can also improve soil tilth, increase water-holding capacity, lessen wind and water erosion, improve aeration, and promote beneficial organisms.
Incineration destroys the nitrogen and organic material content of the manure.
It is unclear that land application of manure requires significant, if any, subsidies. Nevertheless, if subsidies are desirable to reduce the cost of manure handling, it would appear more appropriate for them to be offered on a per ton basis, rather than on a per kWh basis. This would level the playing field for all competing manure handling techniques. Convenience is no excuse for poor policymaking. The growing demand for manure has led to an increasing professionalism in the application industry.