Session 2: Fundamentals of the Composting Process. Gary Felton University of Maryland

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Session 2: Fundamentals of the Composting Process. Gary Felton University of Maryland"

Transcription

1 Session 2: Fundamentals of the Composting Process Gary Felton University of Maryland

2 Learning Objectives Part 1: Understand BIOLOGY of compost pile Part 2: Learn factors used to control composting process: 6 KEY PROCESS VARIABLES

3 Why Biology? Because composting is a biologically driven and mediated process

4 The Composting Process Feedstocks Water CO 2 Heat Odors? Microorganisms Oxygen Water Compost Pile Compost

5 Why Does Composting Happen? Microbes consume feedstocks to obtain energy & nutrients Their activity creates heat Heat gets trapped in pile Accelerates process

6 The needs of composting organisms are the same as those of all living things: Food (energy) Oxygen (something to respire) Nutrients Water A hospitable environment -Temperature -Neutral chemical (ph) conditions

7 Types of Organic Carbon Sugars, starches (1 st to break down) Proteins, fats (readily decomposable) Cellulose, hemicellulose, chitin (slower to degrade) Lignin and lignocellulose (most resistant to decay)

8 Microorganisms Involved in the Composting Process Bacteria Fungi Actinomycetes

9 Bacteria Smallest living organisms 250, ,000 fit inside % of microbes in compost pile Responsible for most of decomposition and heat generation in compost

10 Fungi Molds, yeasts, mushrooms Numerous during mesophilic phases When temperatures are high, most fungi live in outer layer of compost Break down tough organic debris cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin Can decompose materials too dry, acidic, or low in nitrogen for bacterial activity

11 Actinomycetes Cause earthy smell Bacteria with filiments (resemble fungi) Look like gray spider webs Degrade cellulose, lignin, chitin, proteins Bark, woody stems, paper Live in wider range of ph than other bacteria Some species in thermophilic phase, others in curing phase

12 How Many Microbes? ~3 trillion!

13 Three Temperature Phases of Composting First: Mesophilic ( F; C) Second: Thermophilic ( F; C) Third: Mesophilic (<105 F; <40.6 C)

14 Temperature F 158 Stages of Composting C Thermophilic Curing & Maturation Mesophilic Time 10 0

15 Typical Compost Pile Temperature Profile Good bugs killed off Weed seeds killed off Most pathogens killed

16 Temperature ( F) Daily Temperature Variance in a Composter Turned Day

17 Phase 1 Microbe Activity Bacteria break down cellulose into glucose Sugars, protein, starch Makes temperatures in pile rise Produce endospores as pile heats up

18 Endospores Bacteria develop tough coating Resists heat, drying, UV radiation, chemicals Can survive next, hotter phase then return to active state when cool again

19 Phase 2 Activity Thermophilic bacteria, fungi take over Heat-intolerant microbes go dormant Pathogens (human, plant) destroyed Complex carbohydrates fully broken down Some proteins are decomposed Hemicelluloses (more resistant) decay All this activity makes temperature continue to rise!

20 Phase 3 Activity Mesophilic microbes return to active state Proteins and carbs diminish Metabolic activity decreases Temperatures in pile drop Lignin (most resistant plant component) decayed by actinomycetes, fungi

21 Phase 3 cont. Physical decomposers support microbes Matter gets exposed to bacteria as arthropods forage Allows microbial populations to increase Arthropods: earthworms, mites, spiders, ants, snails, sow bugs, slugs, nematodes, springtails, centipedes, etc.

22 Log # CFU's/g (# microbes) Temperature 14 Generalized Microbial Population Dynamics During Composting C 70 F Bacteria Temperature Actinomycetes x Fungi Time 0 32 A simulation by Phil Leege based on: Personal observations, Beffa, Blanc, Marilley, Fischer, Lyon and Aragno Taxonomic and Metabolic Diversity during Composting 1995; Jeong and Shin Cellulosic Degradation in Bench-Scale Composting of Food Waste and Paper Mixture 1997; Whitney and Lynch The Importance of Lignocellulosic Compound in Composting 1995, and others. 23

23 Summary: Succession of Microbial Communities During Composting Mesophilic bacteria break down soluble, readily degradable compounds (sugars and starches) Thermophilic bacteria break down proteins, fats; work with actinomycetes to begin breaking down cellulose and hemicellulose Actinomycetes and fungi are important during curing phase in attacking most resistant compounds

24 Session 2 Fundamentals of Composting Part 2: Key Process Variables

25 How Do We Control the Composting Process? Feedstocks Water CO 2 Heat Odors? Microorganisms Oxygen Water Compost Pile Compost

26 The Key Process Variables for Control of the Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

27 The Key Process Variables for Control of the Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

28 1. Feedstocks: Your Raw Materials Chemical composition Organic Matter, Nutrients, Degradability Physical characteristics Moisture, Bulk density, Heterogeneity Other Contamination, Cost, Availability, Regulations

29 What is Organic Matter? Derived from living organisms Always contains carbon Source of energy for decomposers Contains various amounts of other elements Nitrogen Phosphorous Oxygen, Hydrogen Sulfur K, Mg, Cu, Cl, etc.

30 Types of Organic Carbon Sugars, starches (1 st to break down) Proteins, fats (readily decomposable) Cellulose, hemicellulose, chitin (slower to degrade) Lignin and lignocellulose (most resistant to decay) Do you remember which microbes break them down?

31 Nitrogen Second most important element Found in Amino acids Proteins Sources include Fresh plant tissue (grass clippings, green leaves, fruits and vegetables) Animals wastes (manure, meat, feathers, hair, blood, etc)

32 Carbon to Nitrogen Ratio (C:N) Ratio of total mass of elemental carbon to total mass of elemental nitrogen Expressed as how much more carbon than nitrogen, with N = 1 Does NOT account for availability, which is affected by: Degradability Surface area Particle size C:N

33 C:N Ratio Ideal starting range: 25:1-35:1 High C:N > 40:1 slows composting process (N limited) Low C:N < 20:1 results in net N release (as ammonia)

34 Example of Feedstock C-N Ratios Carbon Sources (est.) Bark :1 Cardboard :1 Leaves 30-80:1 Mixed paper :1 Newspaper 560:1 Peanut shells 35:1 Peat moss 30-65:1 Pine needles 250:1 Sawdust :1 Triticale, oat, rye straw 70-90:1 Wood chips :1 Wheat straw :1 Nitrogen Sources (est.) Alfalfa 13:1 Clover 23:1 Coffee grounds 20:1 Food scraps 15-25:1 Garden debris 20-60:1 Grass clippings 15-25:1 Alfalfa, timothy hay 15-25:1 Cow manure 20:1 Pig manure 5-7:1 Poultry manure 5-10:1 Horse, llama, donkey, alpaca manure 15-25:1 Blood or bone meal 3-4:1 Ideal Starting Range is 25:1-35:1

35 Physical Factors Affecting Decomposition Particle Size Structure Porosity Free Air Space Permeability Bulk Density

36 Particle Size and Shape Decomposition happens on surface Smaller particles = more surface area Very fine particles prevent air flow Rigid particles provide structure & help aerate

37 Particle Size Source: Mid-Scale Composting Manual

38 Particle Size and Porosity Effects on Aeration Adapted from T. Richard Loosely packed, well structured Loosely packed, uniform particle size Tightly packed, uniform particle size Tightly packed, mixed particle sizes

39 Porosity and Free Air Space Porosity = non-solid portion of pile Determined by size and type of particles, and height of pile Free Air Space (FAS) = portion of pore space not occupied by liquid May vary in pile Start > 50% porosity

40 Relationship of FAS to Pile Depth FAS 40% Water Solids 30% 30% FAS 20% Free air space changes in pile due to compaction Water Solids 40% 40%

41 Pile Structure/Porosity liquid film free air space compost particles Pore space airflow

42 Bulk Density Highly correlated with Free Air Space (FAS) Measure of mass (weight) per unit volume pounds/cubic foot, tons/cubic yard, kg/l Examples Water: 62 lb/ft 3, 1.44 ton/yd 3 Topsoil (dry): ~75 lb/ft 3, ~1.73 ton/yd 3 Compost : ~44 lb/ft 3, ~1200 lb/yd 3 Lower bulk density usually means greater porosity and free air space

43 Non-Compacted Low Bulk Density Compacted High Bulk Density Lost pore volume

44 Initial Bulk Density & FAS Rule of thumb for starting mix: Below 800 lbs/cubic yard (475 kg/m 3 ) May not hold heat Above 1000 lbs/cy (600 kg/m 3 ) increasingly difficult to aerate Above 1200 lbs/cy (700 kg/m 3 ) Too dense Starting FAS: above 50% will assure good airflow

45 Feedstock Summary Each feedstock has certain attributes: Carbon, nitrogen, moisture, bulk density, rigidity, ph, homogeneity, consistency, putrescibility, pathogenicity, tip fee The RECIPE is how feedstocks are combined Composting system & site are designed and managed based on types, amounts of feedstocks Regulations are always partly based on feedstock

46 The Key Process Variables for Control of the Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

47 2. Pile Moisture Required by microbes for life processes, heating and cooling, place to live Optimum is 45-60% moisture > 65% means pore spaces filled anaerobic conditions < 40% fungus dominates difficult to re-wet < 35% dust problems

48 Moisture Composting consumes water Better to start on high end Adding water is difficult 25 gallons per ton raises moisture content ~10% Example: 3,000 yards of leaves = 1,000 tons If they are at 40% moisture, need 25,000 gallons to raise them to 50% moisture 25 trips with a 1,000 gallon water truck!

49 The Key Process Variables for Control of the Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

50 3. Pile Aeration Aeration supplies oxygen Ambient air is 21% oxygen O 2 consumption increases with temperature Compost organisms can survive 5% oxygen Below 10% oxygen in pile, bacteria can start switching to anaerobic respiration Produces hydrogen sulfide (rotten egg smell) Maintaining adequate oxygen will reduce odor complaints!

51 Aeration Controlled by Porosity (particle size) Compaction (pile height and density) Moisture Without blowers, rely on diffusion and convection

52 Convective Aeration Warm Air Cooler Ambient air Cooler Ambient air

53 Forced Aeration: Positive

54 Forced Aeration: Negative

55 Variables are Related Question: As Bulk density goes up, what happens to Porosity? Bulk Density =? Porosity

56 Variables are Related Answer: As Bulk Density goes up, Porosity goes down Bulk Density = Porosity

57 Variables are Related Question: As Moisture goes up, what happens to Aeration? Moisture =? Aeration

58 Variables are Related Answer: As Moisture goes up, Aeration goes down Moisture = Aeration

59 Variables are Related Question: As Free Air Space goes up, what happens to Aeration? Free Air Space =? Aeration

60 Variables are Related Answer: As Free Air Space goes up, Aeration goes up Free Air Space = Aeration

61 Turning Compost Piles: Myths and Facts Turning = Aeration MYTH! Oxygen introduced by turning may be consumed within minutes in active pile Passive or forced aeration is needed to sustain oxygen levels after turning

62 Turning Compost Piles: Myths and Facts Turning increases porosity MYTH! Depending on feedstocks and type of turning equipment, turning may reduce particle size and pore space Pore space can increase after turning but it gradually decreases as materials resettle and compact

63 Turning Compost Piles: Myths and Facts Turning cools the pile MYTH! Cools it temporarily, followed by increase in temperature beyond pre-turning point Exposes fresh surfaces for decomposition Breaks up anaerobic pockets Turning can have permanent cooling effect during later phase of composting

64 Turning Compost Piles: Myths and Facts Turning speeds decomposition FACT! Releases trapped gases Exposes fresh surfaces Breaks apart anaerobic lumps Redistributes moisture, nutrients, microbes

65 The Key Process Variables for Control of The Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

66 4. Pile Shape and Size Smaller piles allow for greater air flow, especially to center of pile Larger piles retain temperatures Too large compacts bottom of pile You can have a Bigger pile if: Have good structure (sticks) Higher C:N Lower Bulk Density Equipment should match pile size

67 Can Use Shape to Capture or Shed Water

68 The Key Process Variables for Control of The Composting Process 1. Initial feedstock mix 2. Pile moisture 3. Pile aeration 4. Pile shape and size 5. Pile temperature 6. Composting retention time

69 5. Temperature Higher temps result in faster breakdown > 160 o F (71 C) lose microbial diversity, composting actually slows Most weeds and pathogens killed at temps 131 o F (55 o C) or higher

70 PFRP Process to Further Reduce Pathogens Time and Temperature requirements to assure pathogen reduction Aerated Static Pile and In-vessel: 131 F (55 C) or higher for 3 days Turned windrow: 131F (55 C) or higher for 15 days or more with 5 turnings

71 Temperature F 158 PFRP C o F Thermophilic Curing & Maturation Mesophilic Time 10 0

72 6. Time Mesophilic a few days to 2 weeks Thermophilic 3 weeks to several months Curing and maturation 1 to several months eliminates inhibitors to seed germination and crop growth

73 When Is Pile Done? Temperature of pile is <10 warmer than ambient temperature About 1/3 of its original volume Can t recognize the original materials It is a dark color Smells earthy (not like ammonia or rotten eggs) Stability (activity diminished) vs maturity (will grow plants) Testing for doneness (lab and facility tests)

74 Summary Key Initial Parameters for Thermophilic Composting Condition Reasonable range Preferred range Moisture % C:N 20:1 60:1 25:1 40:1 Oxygen % Greater than 5 Greater than 10 Temperature o F o C ph Particle size Porosity: Bulk density lbs/ yd 3 (kg/l) Free Air Space % 1/8 to 2 inches.3-5 cm Less than 1200 (.7) Depends on feedstocks and use for compost (.45-.6) 50-60

Developing a Recipe for Composting Livestock Manure

Developing a Recipe for Composting Livestock Manure 112 Developing a Recipe for Composting Livestock Manure Petra Loro, Livestock Environment Specialist, Animal Industry Branch, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 5S6. E-mail:

More information

COMPOSTING 101 to 450 Paul Walker Illinois State University - Normal

COMPOSTING 101 to 450 Paul Walker Illinois State University - Normal COMPOSTING 101 to 450 Paul Walker Illinois State University - Normal COMPOST DEVELOPMENT COMPOST QUALITY ON-SIGHT QUALITY DETERMINATION POLLUTANT REMOVAL EROSION / SEDIMENT CONTROL COMPOST PROCESS FLOW

More information

Composting in Your Backyard

Composting in Your Backyard Composting in Your Backyard Mark King, Sustainability Division MAINE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Protecting Maine s Air, Land and Water Why Do People Want Compost? Benefits of compost Add organic

More information

On-Farm ASP Composting

On-Farm ASP Composting On-Farm ASP Composting User Manual for Small-Scale Aerated Static Pile Composting Aerated Static Pile (ASP) System Compost systems using forced aeration or Aerated Static Pile (ASP) are in use throughout

More information

Participant Identification. Compost for the Small and Midsize Farm. Motivations: Why use Compost?

Participant Identification. Compost for the Small and Midsize Farm. Motivations: Why use Compost? Participant Identification Compost for the Small and Midsize Farm John Biernbaum Michigan State University Compost producers or suppliers? Vegetable and fruit farmers? Field crop, forage, and grain farmers?

More information

Backyard Composting. Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University

Backyard Composting. Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University Backyard Composting Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University Adriane.Elliott@ColoState.edu Whether you have one horse... many cows, a few goats, or kitchen waste Organic

More information

The Biology of Composting

The Biology of Composting The Biology of Composting Mark King, Sustainability Division mark.a.king@maine.gov MAINE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Protecting Maine s Air, Land and Water Systems Covered First We ll Discuss

More information

Composting. What is Composting? Environmental benefits. Crop production benefits. Sanitation benefits. Outline 3/4/2016

Composting. What is Composting? Environmental benefits. Crop production benefits. Sanitation benefits. Outline 3/4/2016 Composting Heartland Wine Conference What is Composting? the controlled biological decomposition of organic materials. primarily by the action of microorganisms and, to a lesser extent, worms and insects.

More information

Compost Production and Utilization. Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University

Compost Production and Utilization. Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University Compost Production and Utilization Addy Elliott Department of Soil and Crop Sciences Colorado State University Adriane.Elliott@ColoState.edu Whether you own one horse... Or many cows Manure is a resource!!

More information

Composting Composting principles

Composting Composting principles Composting is essentially the same process as natural decomposition except that it is enhanced and accelerated by mixing organic waste with other ingredients in a manner that optimizes microbial growth.

More information

Composting Principals

Composting Principals Composting Principals Southern New England Chapter of the Soil & Water Conservation Society Friday August 5 th, 2016 Bear Path Farm (Whately, MA) and UMass Amherst Geoff Kuter, Ph.D. Agresource Inc. www.agresourceinc.com

More information

jf, FiBL, CH-Frick 1

jf, FiBL, CH-Frick 1 Research Institute of Organic Agriculture Forschungsinstitut für biologischen Landbau Institut de recherche de l agriculture biologique to composting and anaerobic digestion How does composting work? Conclusions

More information

Compost: Quality Considerations. DeAnn Presley, KSU Agronomy, RESEARCH & EXTENSION

Compost: Quality Considerations. DeAnn Presley, KSU Agronomy, RESEARCH & EXTENSION Compost: Quality Considerations DeAnn Presley, KSU Agronomy, deann@ksu.edu Outline Parameters we can easily measure ourselves During Done-ness After Where to send samples for nutrient analysis and/or pesticide

More information

Municipal Solid Waste Composting

Municipal Solid Waste Composting JICA Ex Participants Association of Solid Waste Management One day workshop, Colombo, 18 th February 2016 Municipal Solid Waste Composting Dr Anurudda Karunarathna Senior Lecturer in Environmental Engineering

More information

Basics of Composting Poultry Litter and Swine Bedding. Sanjay Shah North Carolina State University 16 November 2010

Basics of Composting Poultry Litter and Swine Bedding. Sanjay Shah North Carolina State University 16 November 2010 Basics of Composting Poultry Litter and Swine Bedding Sanjay Shah North Carolina State University 16 November 2010 Composting Facts Compost: stable organic material with earthy smell Microorganisms convert

More information

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) Important component in soil fertility The higher the SOM soil more fertile

Soil Organic Matter (SOM) Important component in soil fertility The higher the SOM soil more fertile Soil Organic Matter (SOM) Important component in soil fertility The higher the SOM soil more fertile Advantages of OM Supply nutrients (especially N, P, S) Increase CEC Improve physical properties( soil

More information

COMPOSTING C:N Ratios of Various Compost Materials

COMPOSTING C:N Ratios of Various Compost Materials COMPOSTING Composting is the active process of converting organic material to more stabilized forms of C through the action of microorganisms. Specifically, composting is the biological decomposition of

More information

Basics of Composting Penn State Mushroom Conference David M. Beyer Professor-Extension Specialist

Basics of Composting Penn State Mushroom Conference David M. Beyer Professor-Extension Specialist Basics of Composting 2009 Penn State Mushroom Conference David M. Beyer Professor-Extension Specialist Mushroom substrate has developed from a hodge-podge of ingredients mixed with water, fed through a

More information

A simplified guide on compost making

A simplified guide on compost making A simplified guide on compost making FANGSOTO FARMER FEDERATION. Mandinaba Village, Kombo East District, West Coast Region, The Gambia. Tel: (220) 7246168 / 6563678 Email: 3158285@gmail.com This guide

More information

DECOMPOSITION OF ORGANIC MATTER IN SOIL

DECOMPOSITION OF ORGANIC MATTER IN SOIL DECOMPOSITION OF ORGANIC MATTER IN SOIL The rapidity with which a given organic amendment is decomposed depends on temperature, the supply of oxygen, moisture, and available minerals, the C/N ratio of

More information

On-Farm Mortality Composting Practices

On-Farm Mortality Composting Practices On-Farm Mortality Composting Practices Dale W. Rozeboom Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University Animal Mortality Composting Workshop, August 27, 2015 28950 Penrose Road, Sterling, Illinois

More information

Microbe Nutrition. Optimal Moisture Conditions

Microbe Nutrition. Optimal Moisture Conditions A Few Surprises: What Are the Best Recipes for ing Large Bovine Carcasses in the Southern High Plains? Making the Microbes Unhappy Imbalanced diet Not enough insulation Too much water (or not enough) Not

More information

On-Farm Mortality Composting Research and Education Project

On-Farm Mortality Composting Research and Education Project On-Farm Mortality Composting Research and Education Project Organic BIOAg Caitlin Price Sustainable For commercial livestock producers, sustainable options for routine mortality disposal are limited by

More information

Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Biological Manipulation of Manure: Getting What You Want from Animal Manure

Agricultural and Biological Engineering. Biological Manipulation of Manure: Getting What You Want from Animal Manure College of Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Agricultural and Biological Engineering Biological Manipulation of Manure: Getting What You Want from Animal Manure G 87 Jeannie A. Leggett, Extension

More information

What Now? How to Manage Your Manure. Mike McMillin Benton SWCD

What Now? How to Manage Your Manure. Mike McMillin Benton SWCD What Now? How to Manage Your Manure Mike McMillin Benton SWCD Manure Storage Area Areas where animal manure is stored or processed Manure Pit Stockpile Short-Term Less than 1 year Long-Term Greater than

More information

Composting Animals. Materials Needed

Composting Animals. Materials Needed Composting Animals With the increasing cost of whole animal removal, and the prohibited use of animal meat and bone meal as a feed source, producers are looking at different techniques for whole carcass

More information

COMPOSTING GOWANUS. A Guide to Building a Compost Windrow.

COMPOSTING GOWANUS. A Guide to Building a Compost Windrow. [ COMPOSTING! GOWANUS A Guide to Building a Compost Windrow! [ www.gowanuscanalconservancy.org info@gowanuscanalconservancy.org (718)-541-4378 COMPOSTING GOWANUS! New York City generates more than 2,300,000

More information

Good Housekeeping Pollution Prevention

Good Housekeeping Pollution Prevention Good Housekeeping Pollution Prevention Oak Meadow Golf and Banquet September 12, 2008 Richard Hentschel Extension Specialist Green Industry Programming University of Illinois Sensible turf management limits

More information

FACT SHEET. Understanding Soil Microbes and Nutrient Recycling. Agriculture and Natural Resources SAG-16-10

FACT SHEET. Understanding Soil Microbes and Nutrient Recycling. Agriculture and Natural Resources SAG-16-10 FACT SHEET Agriculture and Natural Resources Understanding Soil Microbes and Nutrient Recycling James J. Hoorman Cover Crops and Water Quality Extension Educator Ohio State University Extension Rafiq Islam

More information

Composting Manure Certified Livestock Manager Training Workshops

Composting Manure Certified Livestock Manager Training Workshops Composting Manure 2006-2007 Certified Livestock Manager Training Workshops Jim Morrison Extension Educator, Crop Systems University of Illinois Extension Outline What is composting? Pros and cons Conditions

More information

UNDERSTANDING SOIL MICROBES AND NUTRIENT RECYCLING

UNDERSTANDING SOIL MICROBES AND NUTRIENT RECYCLING O H I O S T A T E U N I V E R S I T Y E X T E N S I O N extension.osu.edu agnr.osu.edu UNDERSTANDING SOIL MICROBES AND NUTRIENT RECYCLING SAG 16 Agriculture and Natural Resources Date: 09/07/2010 James

More information

Collecting Compost (modified for ADEED)

Collecting Compost (modified for ADEED) (modified for ADEED) Overview: Soil is composed of tiny rocks, and plant and animal debris. In this lesson, students explore soil formation by starting a composting box. Objectives: The student will: observe

More information

Managing the CCS Compost Shed and Beyond: Year 3

Managing the CCS Compost Shed and Beyond: Year 3 Managing the CCS Compost Shed and Beyond: Year 3 Student Goals: By helping to manage the CCS compost operation, you will all Learn about the benefits of composting Learn about how to compost Be able to

More information

Soil is composed of tiny rocks, and plant and animal debris. In this lesson, students explore soil formation by starting a composting box.

Soil is composed of tiny rocks, and plant and animal debris. In this lesson, students explore soil formation by starting a composting box. Collecting Compost Overview: Soil is composed of tiny rocks, and plant and animal debris. In this lesson, students explore soil formation by starting a composting box. Levels III-IV Objectives: Grades

More information

Organic Growing. Michael Bomford Kentucky State University

Organic Growing. Michael Bomford Kentucky State University Organic Growing Michael Bomford Kentucky State University Certified Organic Producers, 2006 16 U.S. organic food sales have grown between 17 and 21% each year since 1997 (total U.S. food sales over this

More information

COMPOSTING ORGANIC MATERIALS TO MAKE ORGANIC SOIL AMENDMENTS

COMPOSTING ORGANIC MATERIALS TO MAKE ORGANIC SOIL AMENDMENTS COMPOSTING ORGANIC MATERIALS TO MAKE ORGANIC SOIL AMENDMENTS REFERENCE: ON-FARM COMPOSTING HANDBOOK. 1992. NORTHEAST REGIONAL AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICE. NRAES-54. NRAES 152 RILEY-ROBB HALL COOPERATIVE

More information

CARBON TO NITROGEN RATIO OF THE COMBINATION OF FEEDSTOCKS PREPARED FOR COMPOSTING OF PARTHENIUM HYSTEROPHORUS WEED

CARBON TO NITROGEN RATIO OF THE COMBINATION OF FEEDSTOCKS PREPARED FOR COMPOSTING OF PARTHENIUM HYSTEROPHORUS WEED Int. J. Chem. Sci.: 14(2), 2016, 949-954 ISSN 0972-768X www.sadgurupublications.com CARBON TO NITROGEN RATIO OF THE COMBINATION OF FEEDSTOCKS PREPARED FOR COMPOSTING OF PARTHENIUM HYSTEROPHORUS WEED SATISH

More information

Citation. Environmental Aspects of Carcass Disposal. Conclusions of Iowa Study. Air Pollution (cont d) Ground Water Quality: Burial s #1 Threat

Citation. Environmental Aspects of Carcass Disposal. Conclusions of Iowa Study. Air Pollution (cont d) Ground Water Quality: Burial s #1 Threat Citation Environmental Aspects of Carcass Disposal Brent W. Auvermann Texas A&M University System Amarillo, TX Engels, B., K. J. Lim, J. Y. Choi and L. Theller. 4. Chapter 4: Evaluating environmental impacts.

More information

Control of Odors from Composting

Control of Odors from Composting Control of Odors from Composting Matthew Cotton 15th International High Level Technical Meeting: Industrial Composting of Waste Campinas, Brazil Odors at Composting Facilities #1 reason for problems at

More information

Solid Wastes. What is Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)? The trash and garbage that comes out of our homes and businesses everyday

Solid Wastes. What is Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)? The trash and garbage that comes out of our homes and businesses everyday Solid Wastes What is Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)? The trash and garbage that comes out of our homes and businesses everyday How much solid waste do we generate? The average American generates approximately

More information

Advanced Composting for Beginners

Advanced Composting for Beginners Advanced Composting for Beginners LINDA J. BREWER DEPARTMENT OF HORTICULTURE OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY Why Compost? Manage yard debris Manage domestic waste Generate soil conditioner Organic Matter Improves

More information

(6) "Agricultural plant materials" means plant material including but not limited to stems, leaves, vines, or roots from an agricultural operation.

(6) Agricultural plant materials means plant material including but not limited to stems, leaves, vines, or roots from an agricultural operation. 3745-560-02 Composting facilities - definitions. (A) (B) (C) If a term used in this chapter is defined in rule 3745-500-02 of the Administrative Code the definition in rule 3745-500-02 of the Administrative

More information

What Can We Do With All This. C. Merritt, C&S Engineers. Food Waste?

What Can We Do With All This. C. Merritt, C&S Engineers. Food Waste? What Can We Do With All This C. Merritt, C&S Engineers Food Waste? Here s the Deal How big is this problem- Food is one of the big 4 (water, energy and climate change) Sources of food wastes What are the

More information

Nutrient Recycling with Manure and Cover Crops

Nutrient Recycling with Manure and Cover Crops Nutrient Recycling with Manure and Cover Crops James J. Hoorman and Dr. Rafiq Islam OSU Extension Center at Lima and OSU Piketon Center Ohio State University Extension Introduction Converting from conventional

More information

Composting of Poultry Offal Demonstration Project

Composting of Poultry Offal Demonstration Project Andy ary WSU Puyallup REC 7612 Pioneer Way East Puyallup, WA 98371 bary@puyallup.wsu.edu http://www.puyallup.wsu.edu/soilmgmt/ Composting of Poultry Offal Demonstration Project Andy ary and Carol iles,

More information

Bacteria, Fungi, Protozoa and Nematodes: Part of the Carbon to Nitrogen Transformation

Bacteria, Fungi, Protozoa and Nematodes: Part of the Carbon to Nitrogen Transformation 1 Nutrient Recycling with Manure and Cover Crops James J. Hoorman and Dr. Rafiq Islam OSU Extension Center at Lima and OSU Piketon Center Ohio State University Extension Introduction Converting from conventional

More information

Appropriate Storage Manure Handling Recycling or Disposing Protecting ti Water Quality

Appropriate Storage Manure Handling Recycling or Disposing Protecting ti Water Quality A Horse Keeper's Guide to Manure Management Proper Manure Management Appropriate Storage Manure Handling Recycling or Disposing Protecting ti Water Quality A 1,000 lb. Horse Can Generate: 8-10 tons of

More information

Review of composting and anaerobic digestion of MSW & a methodological proposal for a mid-size city

Review of composting and anaerobic digestion of MSW & a methodological proposal for a mid-size city Review of composting and anaerobic digestion of MSW & a methodological proposal for a mid-size city By M. R. Q. Silva & T. R. Naik UWM Center for By-Products Utilization University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

More information

APPENDIX E COMPOSTING MADE SIMPLE WITH AG-BAG ENVIRONMENTAL S ECOPOD TECHNOLOGY

APPENDIX E COMPOSTING MADE SIMPLE WITH AG-BAG ENVIRONMENTAL S ECOPOD TECHNOLOGY APPENDIX E COMPOSTING MADE SIMPLE WITH AG-BAG ENVIRONMENTAL S ECOPOD TECHNOLOGY Composting Made Simple with Ag-Bag Environmental s EcoPOD Technology A s the world s population grows along with the volume

More information

Operating & Maintaining a co-composting facility

Operating & Maintaining a co-composting facility WATER SECTOR TRUST FUND USER S GUIDE ISO 9001:2008 CERTIFIED Operating & Maintaining a co-composting facility Index Brown waste Compost Co-composting Green waste Pathogen UDDT UDDT matter Windrow Refers

More information

Compost: Truth or Consequences

Compost: Truth or Consequences User s Guide - Produced by Cornell Waste Management Institute Compost: Truth or Consequences To be used in conjunction with Compost: Truth or Consequences 15-minute video about backyard composting; for

More information

Sludge Management EENV 5--- Chapter 6 Pathogen Removal from Sludge

Sludge Management EENV 5--- Chapter 6 Pathogen Removal from Sludge Sludge Management EENV 5--- Chapter 6 Pathogen Removal from Sludge Introduction Pathogenic organisms in sludge are of concern in sludge processing and final disposal. The degree of sludge pathogenicity

More information

Composting. What is Composting?

Composting. What is Composting? Composting Vaughn Hammond Extension Technologist University of Nebraska Lincoln Kimmel Education & Research Center vhammond2@unl.edu 402-873-3166 What is Composting? Composting is the transformation of

More information

INOCULANTS MSAP CATALYST METHODOLOGY HYDROLOC E&P REMEDIATION

INOCULANTS MSAP CATALYST METHODOLOGY HYDROLOC E&P REMEDIATION COMPOSTING FROM THE OUTSIDE IN CATALYST INOCULANTS MSAP METHODOLOGY HYDROLOC E&P REMEDIATION THE ORGANIC CATALYST Harvest Quest Catalyst proprietary inoculants will produce a better quality compost, in

More information

Making compost on dairy farms

Making compost on dairy farms Making compost on dairy farms Compost production and its application to land can be used as a method of refining and improving on-farm use of organic residues. There is increasing interest in the cost

More information

Information Guide. Page 1 Ecodrum Information Guide (Revised 08/17)

Information Guide. Page 1 Ecodrum Information Guide (Revised 08/17) Information Guide Page 1 Table of Contents Section A pg. 4-7 - Definition of Composting pg. 4-5 - Composting Principles pg. 6 - In Vessel Composting Definition pg. 7 - In Vessel Composting Advantages pg.

More information

Controlling Dust and Odor From Open Lot Livestock Facilities. Livestock and Poultry Environmental Stewardship

Controlling Dust and Odor From Open Lot Livestock Facilities. Livestock and Poultry Environmental Stewardship Controlling Dust and Odor From Open Lot Livestock Facilities Introduction Dust and odor events associated with OLLFs are driven principally by the effect of short-term weather patterns on the moisture

More information

ECO Farming in the 21 st Century Recycling Soil Nutrients

ECO Farming in the 21 st Century Recycling Soil Nutrients ECO Farming in the 21 st Century Recycling Soil Nutrients James J. Hoorman hoorman.1@osu.edu www.mccc@msu.edu Healthy Soil versus Sick Soil Healthy soils have these things in common: 1) Live plants growing

More information

A compost windrow at Mundubbera, Queensland

A compost windrow at Mundubbera, Queensland Making Compost Improving soil health A compost windrow at Mundubbera, Queensland BACKGROUND SIGNIFICANCE OF COMPOST TO AGRICULTURE Compost is decomposing organic material used as a natural fertiliser for

More information

What To Do With The Poo? Distance Learning

What To Do With The Poo? Distance Learning What To Do With The Poo? Distance Learning Summary and Goals Students will understand the importance of recycling responsibly and understand the process in which a composting system transforms organic

More information

Successful Approaches to Biosolids Composting. The Compost Council of Canada September 19-21, 2011

Successful Approaches to Biosolids Composting. The Compost Council of Canada September 19-21, 2011 Successful Approaches to Biosolids Composting The Compost Council of Canada September 19-21, 2011 Outline 1. WeCare Organics 2. Wastewater Summary 3. Composting Operations Composting Processes Composting

More information

Disposal of Large Animal Carcasses

Disposal of Large Animal Carcasses Disposal of Large Animal Carcasses David R. Wolfgang, VMD, ABVP-Dairy Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity and diversity of

More information

Three main types of composting HGA-01027

Three main types of composting HGA-01027 HGA-01027 UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS Composting in Alaska Composting is a wonderful way for gardeners to convert unwanted organic waste, such as leaves, branches and

More information

Design and operation of composting plants. Federico Valentini Consorzio Italiano Compostatori

Design and operation of composting plants. Federico Valentini Consorzio Italiano Compostatori Design and operation of composting plants Federico Valentini Consorzio Italiano Compostatori Summer School: Biological and Thermal Treatment of Municipal COMPOSTING Composting is a microbial process of

More information

The Science of Composting Quality, Marketing, Compost Basics. Northeast Recycling Council, Inc. Athena Lee Bradley

The Science of Composting Quality, Marketing, Compost Basics. Northeast Recycling Council, Inc. Athena Lee Bradley The Science of Composting Quality, Marketing, Compost Basics Northeast Recycling Council, Inc. Athena Lee Bradley www.nerc.org Getting Started Market Beginnings Are you committed to manufacturing a marketable

More information

On Site Composting for Schools Planning and Implementing a Program for Success

On Site Composting for Schools Planning and Implementing a Program for Success Cultivating Sustainable Systems P.O. Box 503 (21 Mill Street, Suite #1) Hardwick, Vermont 05843 802-472-5138 www.highfieldscomposting.org On Site Composting for Schools Planning and Implementing a Program

More information

Composting Horse Stable Manure

Composting Horse Stable Manure Composting Horse Stable Manure Jeffrey Creque, Ph.D. With Acknowledgments to A Horse Keeper's Guide to Manure Management,, USDA-NRCS Management 1 Compost The product of a managed

More information

Cycling of Matter. The International Space Station has been continuously occupied since November, 2000.

Cycling of Matter. The International Space Station has been continuously occupied since November, 2000. Think about the astronauts living aboard the International Space Station. Like us, they need to breathe, eat, sleep, and use the bathroom. Yet, they are confined to a small spacecraft miles above Earth

More information

Lab today Finish Inventory work at Rest Area Site

Lab today Finish Inventory work at Rest Area Site Lubrecht Forest, Montana NREM 301 Forest Ecology & Soils Day 23 Nov 10, 2009 Nutrient Cycling (Chapters 16-18) Lab today Finish Inventory work at Rest Area Site Quiz on Thursday Also record trees & shrubs

More information

Composting on Horse Farms

Composting on Horse Farms Composting on Horse Farms H.M. Keener (keener.3@osu.edu) Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering OARDC/OSUE Ohio State University March 14, 2006 Wayne County Fairgrounds Wooster, Ohio Composting

More information

Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use

Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use National Compost Conference September 16-18, 2015 Christine Brown - OMAFRA On-Farm Anaerobic Digestion Research Project Anna Crolla Alfred College June 2015 On-Farm

More information

Compost Successes, Failures and Opportunities: Growing Better Plants

Compost Successes, Failures and Opportunities: Growing Better Plants Compost Successes, Failures and Opportunities: Growing Better Plants by Thomas R. Halbach Department of Soil, Water and Climate University of Minnesota SROC s Season Extension Day Wednesday, March 4, 2015

More information

Solvita Compost Emissions Test

Solvita Compost Emissions Test Solvita Compost Emissions Test 1. OBTAIN and PREPARE SAMPLE: Take a grab sample or prepare a composite by mixing several sub-samples representative of the entire compost. Remove by hand wood chips and

More information

Common Mistakes in Processing that Lead to Product Quality Issues

Common Mistakes in Processing that Lead to Product Quality Issues Common Mistakes in Processing that Lead to Product Quality Issues Presented by: Ron Alexander, R. Alexander Associates, Inc. 3/08/11 What are you selling? Compost pile REALLY!?!?..a product or just brown

More information

Principles of Soil Health Management

Principles of Soil Health Management Principles of Soil Health Management John Idowu Extension Agronomist, New Mexico State University April 24 th, 2014 Extension Plant Sciences Online Contact: John Idowu Email: jidowu@nmsu.edu Phone: 575-646-2571

More information

Part 637 Environmental Engineering National Engineering Handbook

Part 637 Environmental Engineering National Engineering Handbook United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service Environmental Engineering Chapter 2 Issued February 2000 The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination

More information

Unfortunately, if you own horses long enough, the time will

Unfortunately, if you own horses long enough, the time will Extension Bulletin E3168 New April 2012 Carcass Composting A Mortality Management Option for Michigan Equine Owners Tom Guthrie MSU Extension Statewide Equine Educator Dale Rozeboom Professor and Extension

More information

Composting Andy Bary WSU - Puyallup

Composting Andy Bary WSU - Puyallup The Composting Process Heat Composting Andy Bary WSU - Puyallup Organic Matter Minerals Microorganisms Compost Pile CO 2 Organic matter, minerals, water, microbes Raw Materials Finished compost O 2 Summary:

More information

Submerged Soils for Rice Production

Submerged Soils for Rice Production Submerged Soils for Rice Production What is soil composed of? If you were to divide soil into its component parts, you would have: a mineral component organic matter and pore space composed of air and

More information

Equine B.M.P. s By Kelly Riley Wayne Soil & Water Conservation District 428 W. Liberty St. Wooster, Oh Holmes SWCD

Equine B.M.P. s By Kelly Riley Wayne Soil & Water Conservation District 428 W. Liberty St. Wooster, Oh Holmes SWCD Equine B.M.P. s By Kelly Riley Wayne Soil & Water Conservation District 428 W. Liberty St. Wooster, Oh 44691 330-262-2836 Holmes SWCD 330-674-2811 August 7, 2006 What is the Wayne SWCD? The Wayne County

More information

Mitigation Strategy Menu

Mitigation Strategy Menu Mitigation Strategy Menu Mitigation Strategy Menu Detailed Explanations The Odor Mitigation Strategy Menu (OMSM) is a comprehensive listing of possible design and operating techniques that can be used

More information

Nitrogen Availability from Manipulated Manures

Nitrogen Availability from Manipulated Manures Nitrogen Availability from Manipulated Manures Chris Baxter UW-Platteville Soil and Crop Science UW-Extension Nutrient Management 2007 Area Soil, Water, and Nutrient Management Meetings Current WI Manure

More information

NCLE Composting Protocols. October 19, 2016

NCLE Composting Protocols. October 19, 2016 NCLE Composting Protocols October 19, 2016 i Table of Contents National Centre for Livestock and the Environment (NCLE) Composting Protocols... 1 Feedstock Preparation and Mixing... 1 C:N Ratio... 1 Moisture...

More information

Soil Quality, Nutrient Cycling and Soil Fertility. Ray Ward Ward Laboratories, Inc Kearney, NE

Soil Quality, Nutrient Cycling and Soil Fertility. Ray Ward Ward Laboratories, Inc Kearney, NE Soil Quality, Nutrient Cycling and Soil Fertility Ray Ward Ward Laboratories, Inc Kearney, NE www.wardlab.com Purposes of Soil Quality Employ new & modified crop management systems Increase efficiency

More information

Balancing the Nitrogen Budget

Balancing the Nitrogen Budget University of California Tulare County Cooperative Extension Balancing the Nitrogen Budget Bill Peacock Pub. NG2-96 Sources of nitrogen in the soil/water system other than fertilizer should be considered

More information

Composting of Cattle On-Farm B. Hawkins, P.Eng.

Composting of Cattle On-Farm B. Hawkins, P.Eng. Nutrient Management Act, 2002 Composting of Cattle On-Farm B. Hawkins, P.Eng. ORDER NO. 10-063 This Factsheet describes some of the requirements for on-farm composting of cattle as described in Ontario

More information

Using Compost and Animal Manure as a Florida BMP on Vegetable Production. Monica Ozores-Hampton, Ph.D.

Using Compost and Animal Manure as a Florida BMP on Vegetable Production. Monica Ozores-Hampton, Ph.D. Using Compost and Animal Manure as a Florida BMP on Vegetable Production Monica Ozores-Hampton, Ph.D. 1 Copyright 2010 by Monica Ozores-Hampton. All rights reserved WHAT IS COMPOSTING? it s a biological

More information

COMAND provides a natural, cost effective way of maintaining quality playing surfaces, while creating wear tolerant and attractive turfgrass

COMAND provides a natural, cost effective way of maintaining quality playing surfaces, while creating wear tolerant and attractive turfgrass MAXIMIZE TURF HEALTH & PERFORMANCE COMAND provides a natural, cost effective way of maintaining quality playing surfaces, while creating wear tolerant and attractive turfgrass ADVANCED NATURAL TOPDRESSING

More information

Composting for Routine Disposal of Poultry and Livestock Mortalities

Composting for Routine Disposal of Poultry and Livestock Mortalities Composting for Routine Disposal of Poultry and Livestock Mortalities 1 Learning Objectives Why Compost?. pros & cons Equipment, facilities, space and planning, cover materials Bin composting procedures

More information

Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist

Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist This checklist is intended to supply municipal staff, contractors, designers and others with an easy to read summary of the detailed information

More information

This is the 2 nd module of training course titled: Submerged Soils for Rice Production

This is the 2 nd module of training course titled: Submerged Soils for Rice Production How are soil properties affected when soil is submerged? This is the 2 nd module of training course titled: Submerged Soils for Rice Production An interactive version of this presentation can be viewed

More information

How to Mix Composting Materials: Characteristics & Equations

How to Mix Composting Materials: Characteristics & Equations Technical Bulletin Composting How to Mix Composting Materials: Characteristics & Equations Introduction This technical bulletin covers the characteristics of organic materials used in composting and the

More information

Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use

Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use Digestate - Maximizing its Value and Use Compost Matters Workshop February 4, 2016 Christine Brown - OMAFRA Digestate use for Agriculture Land Sources Farm - manure-based with other feedstocks Municipal

More information

Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist

Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist Biotreatment Soil Mix Specification Verification Checklist This checklist is intended to supply municipal staff, contractors, designers and others with an easy to read summary of the detailed information

More information

COMPOSTING POULTRY LOSSES

COMPOSTING POULTRY LOSSES Proceedings 2004 Poultry Information Exchange. Surfers Paradise, Qld., AU. April 19, 2004. pp. 39-42. COMPOSTING POULTRY LOSSES Bud Malone University of Delaware Georgetown, Delaware USA HISTORY Composting

More information

Wastewater Treatment Products

Wastewater Treatment Products Wastewater Treatment Products Treatment Systems will be more efficient Lower BOD and TSS levels Accelerate the degradation of greases, fats and wastes Eliminate Odors Now Available from BioWorld Products

More information

Organic Manures and Fertilizers for Vegetable Crops

Organic Manures and Fertilizers for Vegetable Crops Organic Manures and Fertilizers for Vegetable Crops Brent Rowell, Extension Vegetable Specialist and Robert Hadad Animal manures contribute more to the soil than just nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

More information

Soil Best Practices. Gardens on the Go Connie Kuramoto

Soil Best Practices. Gardens on the Go Connie Kuramoto Soil Best Practices Gardens on the Go Connie Kuramoto What is Good Soil? Good soil Has equal water and air holding capacity Contains organic matter Is full of microbes Nature builds soil by feeding microbes

More information

Biology and Ecology of Soilborne Organisms

Biology and Ecology of Soilborne Organisms Identification, Assessment and Management of Soilborne Plant Pathogens in Vegetable Production Systems Biology and Ecology of Soilborne Organisms Beth K. Gugino Department of Plant Pathology and Environmental

More information

Low Cost Equine Manure Composting

Low Cost Equine Manure Composting Low Cost Equine Manure Composting When done correctly, composting decreases the volume of waste, kills parasitic eggs & larvae, & destroys weed seeds. The equine industry in Massachusetts, estimated to

More information