| | Composting is receiving increased attention as an economically viable and environmentally sustainable alternative manure management strategy for livestock producers. The Technical Services Division of Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (AAFRD) has recently developed a new source of information on agricultural composting for producers in a new publication entitled the Manure Composting Manual.
“There is a lot of composting information scattered in different places, so we’ve tried to bring all this information together into one package,” explains Dr. Atta Atia, Manure Management Specialist. “This manual will help agricultural producers choose the composting system that best fits their individual operations.” The manual is useful for any size of operation, and provides options for both small and larger enterprises. Producers will find information on everything from the technical aspects of composting to regulations, site selection and links to additional information.
Composting offers a number of advantages, both economic and environmental. “For producers who may have to haul manure a long distance, composting reduces the volume of manure, lowering the hauling costs and improving the economics,” says Atia. The final composted product is stable, free of pathogens and viable plant seeds, and is a valuable soil conditioner and source of nutrients.
Manure that is properly composted using the right process and the right timing also reduces environmental risks, protecting our air, soil and water resources. Odors and other air quality concerns are reduced. Composting decreases pollutants by stabilizing the volatile nitrogen into large protein particles, reducing losses. Site selection is a very important component for both manure and compost, to buffer against sensitive land uses and protect water resources from possible contamination.
“The most important part of the manual is a calculator and a series of worksheets that producers can use for making management decisions on their farm,” says Atia. “The calculator is easy to use and helps producers select the right ingredients and the right amount of various ingredients so the final blended product is a success.” It calculates how much carbon source materials and water need to be added to the manure to have a good compost mix. AAFRD is planning to release an on-line compost calculator fairly soon. “Another useful component of the manual is a ‘Troubleshooting section’ that can help producers identify potential problems and possible solutions to help them manage the composting process.”
Producers should be aware that the manure management standards under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA) also apply to compost and composting materials. They should contact the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) at 1-866-383-6722 prior to setting up a composting facility to be advised on how the regulations will affect their individual operation.
Manure composting is a viable manure management alternative, and the Manure Composting Manual offers producers a great place to begin the process. The manual is available on-line at: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/agdex8875. Or, you can order a free copy from AAFRD Publications by calling 1-800-292-5697. (Reference Agdex # 400/27-1 when ordering)
For more information, contact Dr. Atta Atia |
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