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Re: help composting manure



Composting is simple to do, and the materials you are talking about will 
compost just like any other organic material (e.g. grass, kitchen 
scraps).  However, as manure is usually wet and not very porous, you will 
probably need to add a "bulking agent" (straw, wood chips) to the manure 
so that enough air can get into the piles, and to increase the 
carbon/nitrogen ratio (manure is very high in nitrogen).

Here are a few excellent books that would be a good place for you to 
start:

1) The Rodale Book of Composting, Rodale Press, 1992.  Although its focus 
is backyard composting, it is an excellent introduction to the composting 
process and all that is involved.  Should be available in your local 
bookstore, or mail order directly from Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA (sorry 
no phone number or email).

2) On-Farm Composting Handbook, Northeast Regional Agricultural 
Engineering Service, 1992.  This book spells out the practical sdtuff on 
how to set up piles, turning, equipment requirements, etc.  An excellent 
resource to have!  Call them at (607)255-7654.

You might also call your state agricultural agency or department of the 
environment.  In most locations, they have someone who can provide 
guidance and general assistance.  

If you have a large amount of manure (several tons), you might need more 
of a helping hand by hiring a composting consultant.  The Composting 
Council in Virginia  can help you find a suitable consultant in your area 
(703-739-2401).  The Council should be able to provide some general 
background information as well.

Hope this is useful.  Repost or email me if you have any other questions.

Regards,
Scott Gamble
Lone Pine Research & Consulting Corp.
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada



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