DEPARTMENT OF A,i:iTi.Tri:K. 



Another very serious loss of fertility takes place where manure-piles are left 



sed to leaching and fermentation. Over half the fertilizing value may be lost 

 in a few months. Fermentation causes the escape of nitrogen as ammonia and 

 rains wash out much fertility into the soil. 



Manure should be"taken away from the barn immediately, either into a separate 

 shed or pit. or direct to the field. On flat laud, spreading immediately on the land 

 has much to recommend it. It saves labour and there is little loss of fertility. 

 If the manure is kept in a pile it should be stored in a shallow concrete pit to hold 

 the liquids from escaping. Some authorities say that, as long as the liquids are 

 prevented from escaping, rain is beneficial" rather than otherwise, in making the 

 pile moist, thus holding the ammonia. 



The overhead track carrier for manure and feed should be installed wherever 

 -'.Vle. It is one of the conveniences of the modern dairy-barn. The track will 

 ]-ad <>nt of the barn to the pit or to the manure-spreader. 



Where other bedding is not available, sawdust or shavings makes a very good 

 litter. Shavings will absorb as much liquid as straw, but sawdust does not a 

 half as much, weight for weight. Sawdust and shavings manure is not as beneficial 

 aw manure, and should be kept moist in the pile to prevent fire-fang. 



