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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
References: