Ridgewood_12-002_PrelimOMP_110913

                                                                           MWA Environmental




      Spreading Method

      Given the spatial constraints of the orchard terraces, litter is expected to be
      spread using a relatively small ground-driven spreader mounted to a small
      tractor. The farm currently operates two spreader systems suitable for this
      purpose, a Marshall 800 Series Multispread - Trailed - 2.5T
      (http://www.marshallspreadersales.com.au/800-series-multispread.html)
      and      a   Vicon     SuperFlow       604     (http://ien.vicon.eu/Spreading-
      Equipment/Fertiliser-Spreaders/Rear-Mounted-Pendulum-Spreaders/Vicon-
      SuperFlow-604-1654).


      These spreader systems typically have a fairly short broadcast distances
      and low velocity which will minimise potential for excessive dust (and
      associated odorous particles) to be released to the atmosphere. The
      vegetated terrace structures will assist in reducing entrainment of litter in the
      atmosphere during periods of high wind speeds. This notwithstanding, it
      may be necessary to dampen the surface of the litter by irrigation during
      high wind conditions to minimise potential fugitive dust (and odour)
      emissions.


      Agronomist’s Analysis

      Myriad International Pty Ltd has undertaken nutrient calculations and
      prepared advice included as Attachment 45. The agronomist’s advice
      indicates that:

             “…while all the poultry manure compost produced on farm can be utilised by
             the orchard additional manufactured fertiliser nutrient will be required to
             meet the demands of your Avocado production system.”

             and

             “Phosphorus contained in compost is predominately in the Citrate form
             which is extremely stable in the soil and not water soluble. The citrate form
             of Phosphorus tightly binds to the soil and only a small percentage is
             available for crop uptake. The application of the compost will greatly reduce
             the potential movements of Phosphorus on the farm due to water runoff.
             This is compared to the standard practice of reliance on manufactured
             fertilisers which are water soluble Phosphorus based and move readily move
             with water flows unless managed.”

      The Myriad International analysis thus indicates that use of spent litter in
      preference to manufactured fertilisers will not result in an increase in
      nutrient loading that could impact on ground and surface waters. In order
      to monitor nutrient loading, farm management will undertake soil and leaf
      analysis to ensure the composted poultry litter is supplying appropriate
      ratios of nutrients and minerals to the trees.



5 Nutrient calculations proposed Broiler production system (Myriad International, August 2013)




Ridgewood 12-002                               16                          11 September 2013