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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: