Project Overview
The Dairy Compost Utilization Project officially began in July 2002 and ended in April 2006. Significant changes and impacts have occurred as a result of the project.
Provided assistance to compost producers in production practices and achieved product consistency.
- Dairy compost producer knowledge of sound production practices, record keeping and testing has vastly increased.
- At project onset, many compost producers had little knowledge concerning compost production; through workshops, site visits and personal communication, compost facility operators gained considerable knowledge on compost production.
Assessed compost quality and worked to improve the material produced.
- The quality and consistency of composted material improved substantially through the life of the project.
- Five of the six dairy compost producers in the watershed have joined the Seal of Testing Assurance Program and have established standard protocols for material sampling and assessment.
Expanded public knowledge of composted dairy manure through educational programs, publications and demonstrations.
- TCE agents and specialists gained considerable knowledge on the use and application of dairy manure compost.
- Knowledge of dairy compost use was conveyed to the public through demonstrations, fact sheets, news articles, presentations, and other communications.
- Information will continue to be utilized by compost producers, agency personnel and end users as valuable guidance in proper use and management of this resource.
Expanded local governmental purchase and use of dairy manure compost in an effort to create a sustainable dairy manure composting program.
- Dairy manure compost use increased in several markets.
- TxDOT applies compost as an erosion control material and as a manufactured topsoil.
- Agricultural applications are common
- Cities use the material for their own landscaping or to distribute to citizens
- Small nursery operators and landscape farms purchase and sell the composted material for bulk distribution or as a bagged product.
- School districts utilize the material as a topdress for athletic fields.