Stabilized Litter for Dairy Cows: Optimization of the Use of Litter Derived from the Solid Fraction Separated from Manure

The objective of the Operational Group Lettiera Stabilizzata was to evaluate the impact of stabilized litter obtained from the solid/liquid separation of dairy cow slurry subjected to a process of sanitation and stabilization in dairy farms operating in the Parmigiano-Reggiano district. The spread of the mechanical separation treatment in many dairy farms induced dairy farmers to consider the solid fraction not only as an organic fertilizer, but also a litter in cubicles for dairy cows, taking account of the relevant cost of the purchase and stocking of other litter material such as straw, wood chips or sawdust. The substrate on which the dairy cows lay down has an impact on their welfare conditions and their cleanliness, as well as on the hygiene and suitability of milk for cheese making.