In this 7-minute video you’ll learn the basics of composting, common challenges and solutions, and how to put your compost to use once it’s finished. This video features Snohomish Conservation District Resource Planners Caitlin Price-Youngquist and the late Alan Shank.
Composting is a biological process: microorganisms (bacteria and fungi) convert raw organic waste like manure into stable, nutrient-rich organic matter. In large numbers, these microorganisms produce enough metabolic heat to increase temperatures inside the compost pile and kill weed seeds and pathogenic bacteria and viruses.
The basic requirements for composting are:
- Organic waste materials (manure, grass clippings, sawdust, food waste, etc.)
- A dedicated area
- Careful management
The same principles apply regardless of scale or materials. With a basic understanding of the biology of a compost pile, you are well on your way to being a master composter!
Composting is a very effective way to manage livestock manure and convert a waste product into a valuable soil amendment. The final product is a wonderful soil amendment that can be used on pastures and gardens to improve soil quality.
Compost has many advantages over raw manure:
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The high temperatures reached during the compost process kill weed seeds, parasites, and pathogens that might be present in the raw materials.
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Composting reduces the initial volume of raw materials by 30 – 50%.
- Unlike raw manure, compost is not a source of unpleasant odors or water pollution; does not attract pests or flies; and looks good around your rose bushes or tomato plants.
Additional Resources
- Backyard Composting – Washington State University Extension
- Dairy Waste Composting – Washington State University Extension
- Horse Manure Composting – WSU Whatcom County Extension
- Manure Compost Marketing Guide – WSU Whatcom County Extension
- On-farm Composting of Large Animal Mortalities – Caitlin Price, Washington State University, Pullman
- Animal Mortality Composting – Tip Hudson, WSU Extension – Kittitas County
- Composting Dog Waste – Alaska NRCS
- Persistent Herbicides in Compost – WSU Whatcom County Extension
- Small-Farm Composting Guide
- Benefits of Bedding Reuse for the Equine Industry
- Agricultural Composting and Water Quality
- The Financial Benefits of Composting Stable Waste for the Equine Industry
- Horse Stable Manure Management – Penn State University Extension