This session will showcase the USDA’s Composting and Food Waste Reduction Program, highlighting successful projects like those from the City of Phoenix and Tucson Unified School District. Attendees will learn about the program’s impact on food waste diversion, challenges faced, and strategies for success, encouraging more communities to apply for funding to address food loss… Continue reading USE.121-Municipal Composting Lessons from USDA’s Composting and …-AC25.USCC
Category: Using Compost
USE.239-Advancing Scalable Food Waste and Organics Circularity Sol…-AC25.USCC
This session will highlight food waste reduction and organics circularity projects supported by NextCycle Michigan. Several alumni teams will pitch their initiatives, discussing their impact and calling for support. A panel discussion will follow, focusing on scaling challenges, collaboration, and opportunities to replicate these solutions in other communities. The session aims to engage the audience… Continue reading USE.239-Advancing Scalable Food Waste and Organics Circularity Sol…-AC25.USCC
USE.237-Can Compost Filter Socks Capture Waterborne Contaminants F…-AC25.USCC
Compost filter socks and straw wattles are both used for erosion and sediment control, but they function differently. While wattles trap sediment-laden water until it overflows, compost filter socks allow water to pass through, potentially improving pollutant filtration. This advantage is particularly relevant after wildfires, which release harmful contaminants into runoff. Following the 2018 Camp… Continue reading USE.237-Can Compost Filter Socks Capture Waterborne Contaminants F…-AC25.USCC
USE.238-The Uniqueness of and Markets for Composted Mulches-AC25.USCC
Mulching is a well-established practice that conserves moisture, reduces soil erosion, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. Carbon-based mulches, such as compost-derived mulches, offer additional benefits by enriching soil with organic matter and supporting microbial life. With climate change intensifying droughts and heavy rainfall, mulching will become even more essential in soil and plant management.… Continue reading USE.238-The Uniqueness of and Markets for Composted Mulches-AC25.USCC
USE.324-Compost Inclusion Effect on Soil PH Over Time-AC25.USCC
Naturcycle, a leading compost marketing and engineered soils firm in the northeastern U.S., is conducting research on compost pH and soil interactions. While compost typically has a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.0–8.5), its long-term effects on soil pH can vary due to biological activity and nutrient additions. The study, conducted in partnership with Penn… Continue reading USE.324-Compost Inclusion Effect on Soil PH Over Time-AC25.USCC
USE.323-Soil Water Repellency in Compost Based Substrates-AC25.CREF
With global growing media demand expected to rise 400% by 2050, Florida’s $2.3 billion horticulture industry is exploring alternatives to peat and coir. Locally sourced compost could be a viable substitute, but its soil water repellency (SWR) must be assessed to ensure consistent performance. Greenhouse trials examined SWR in compost-based media and tested surfactant applications… Continue reading USE.323-Soil Water Repellency in Compost Based Substrates-AC25.CREF
USE.322-Sustainability Assessment of Urban Agriculture and Compost…-AC25.CREF
This study assessed the environmental and economic benefits of urban microfarms (MF) in Mansfield, Ohio, compared to conventional California spinach and lettuce production. Using local compost and rainwater, MFs significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions (GHGe) by 56-74% while boosting local income and community engagement. Compost-based fertility had higher emissions than chemical fertilizers but was offset… Continue reading USE.322-Sustainability Assessment of Urban Agriculture and Compost…-AC25.CREF
USE.321-How Compost Impacts Dry Rangelands-AC25.CREF
A study in New Mexico assessed the effects of biosolid and manure composts on soil health and microbial communities in dry rangelands. While composts increased vegetation biomass, they did not significantly alter native microbial communities. Biosolid compost reduced water infiltration, aiding moisture retention, while manure compost lowered soil aggregate stability. The findings suggest compost enhances… Continue reading USE.321-How Compost Impacts Dry Rangelands-AC25.CREF
USE.320-Fertility and Water Effects of Food Waste Compost-AC25.CREF
A study evaluated six food waste composts as a fertility source and water management tool for field-grown tomatoes. Compost amendments improved soil moisture retention, reducing plant water stress. In most cases, compost alone provided sufficient nutrients, yielding results comparable to conventional fertilizers. Compost combined with organic fertilizers consistently met or exceeded conventional yields, highlighting compost’s… Continue reading USE.320-Fertility and Water Effects of Food Waste Compost-AC25.CREF
USE.319-Use of Sustainable Growing Media Components in Professiona…-AC25.CREF
A study analyzed 27 composts from across the U.S. for physical properties affecting nursery crop production. Regional differences were found in air space and container capacity. Key correlations were identified, helping growers predict compost performance for better watering and fertilization practices. The content of this course is covered by Copyright and Licensing, Privacy and Terms… Continue reading USE.319-Use of Sustainable Growing Media Components in Professiona…-AC25.CREF