In early Spring 2002, the University of Delaware conducted a demonstration of alternative methods of poultry mortality disposal. This study was the result of a request by the Delaware Nutrient Management Commission (DNMC). The DNMC was concerned that historical methods of mortality disposal, primarily landfill and burial, were inappropriate given current environmental concerns regarding the spread of disease and groundwater contamination, respectively. The demonstration was conducted at the University of Delaware Research and Education Center and consisted of two replications of five treatments buried in a 4 x 8ft, 18-inch deep holes; control, compost (1/3 carcass and 2/3 poultry litter), carbon-base (2/3 carcass and 1/3 sawdust base), hydrated lime base (1.4kg), and acidified clay base (1.4kg). Mortality was excavated after three months to determine decomposition. Lysimeters were installed to monitor movement of nitrogen from the treatments. Results showed no difference in carcass decomposition between the various treatments. However, there were important differences in nitrogen leaching that will be discussed.