Benefits of
Cured Compost
- Increase the soil’s structure and ability to hold water and nutrients.
- Can reduce the need for pesticides by increasing the soil’s biological activity.
- Offsets use of natural resources (e.g., peat moss) for mulch. Diverts valuable organic materials from landfills.
- Adds organic matter and nutrients to the soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Encourages the slow release of nitrogen and lowers the carbon to nitrogen ration, making nitrogen available to plants.
- Kills pathogens and weed seeds.
- Prevents soil erosion.
BIO-SECURE
Composting allows immediate year-round disposal of carcasses so that disease is not spread. There is no entry of off-farm vehicles that can bring disease onto the farm from other operations, and the high temperatures in the compost pile kill pathogens.
EASY TO ACCOMPLISH
Composting requires only good management and minimal training. It utilizes readily available organic materials.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND
A properly functioning compost pile gives off little odor and does not harm or affect groundwater. Composting turns waste into a beneficial fertilizer and soil amendment, resulting in on-farm nutrient recycling.
COST-EFFECTIVE
Composting has low to moderate startup costs and minimal operating costs.