Sustainable livestock productionManure composting
The manure produced by livestock can be composted to produce valuable humus to enrich the soil. The value of the composted manure is not only in the organic matter that adds nutrients and improves soil texture, but also in the increased microbial activity also which contributes to soil fertility. Since raw manure is high in nitrogen, it needs to be balanced with a carbon source, such as straw or sawdust in order to promote effective microbial activity. Composting manure is thus very suited to livestock systems that use straw bedding.
- Compost (Wikipedia entry)
- Manure composting on the Prairies
- Photos of manure composting process
- Agriculture Canada - Lethbridge Research Centre Report: Comparative study shows composting reduces haulage requirements
- Agriculture Canada - Lethbridge Research Centre Report: Manure improves soil water retention and reduces compaction
- Manure Composting Manual — Alberta Agriculture