What is it?
Composting is the process of recycling organic matter into a usable product that can return nutrients to the environment.
The composting process involves microorganisms breaking down the material and consuming oxygen, which creates water vapour, carbon dioxide, and heat [1]. This heat, which can cause the compost to reach temperatures of over 65°C, can kill microbes, aiding in on-farm biosecurity. Other important considerations for compositing include aeration, moisture levels, and the carbon to nitrogen ratio. Composting on a farm can include either manure or deadstock (animal mortalities on site).
Composting consists of placing either the manure or the animal carcass in a composting bin or windrow and surrounding it with organic material such as straw [1], [2]. After a certain period, the compost pile will be regularly turned to introduce air and mix the contents up. Composting can take several months to complete, after which the compost can be spread on crops as a fertilizer.
Challenges
- Composting requires months to complete, as well as enough space and organic material for the process to occur.
How Does it Prevent AMR?
As mentioned above, the composting process naturally generates high heat environments that can kill the susceptible microbes that are present. This process prevents any AMR microbes from spreading on the farm.
Further Reading
Research Gaps
Product/Service Gaps
References
[1] Beef Cattle Research Council, ‘Manure & Nutrient Management’, Beef Research, Aug. 08, 2022. https://www.beefresearch.ca/topics/manure-nutrient-management/ (accessed Aug. 22, 2022).
[2] Government of Saskatchewan, ‘Composting Animal Mortalities: A Producer’s Guide’. Accessed: Aug. 22, 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/agriculture-natural-resources-and-industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-ranchers/livestock/livestock-and-the-environment/animal-mortality-procedures
