This paper describes the composting process, general guidelines for pile management, siting considerations, choosing a composting method, composting regulations and permits, qualities of finished compost, and compost quality standards. From Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems (CIAS), Wisconsin.

The contribution of biodynamics to organic agriculture is significant and warrants more attention. This publication provides an overview of biodynamic farming and includes additional details and resources on the specialized practice of biodynamic composting. ATTRA Alternative Farming Systems Guide.

This paper describes soil organic matter, how it works to improve the soil, how to build it, characteristics of specific soil organic amendments, their production in Wisconsin, and guidelines for use. It covers Animal manures; Crop residues, spoiled hay and straw; Municipal yard waste; Wastes from dairy, vegetable, fish, meat and poultry processing industries; Wastes from paper mills, timber and paper products; Peat; and Compost. It also includes a short page on Biosolids (sewage sludge), a material not allowed in organic production. From UW-Madison Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems.

Demonstration trials were conducted using organic amendments (compost and rapeseed meal) on fields of organic and conventional potatoes. Results of demonstration trials showed the uses of organic amendments in organic and conventional production systems. Soil foodweb data demonstrated ecological principles that may be applied in either cropping system. Mineralization data showed one of the benefits of organic amendments-that of providing a controlled release source of N for the crop. This is important in organic systems because it is the main N source for the crop. Research from University of Idaho, Cooperative Extension; funded by SARE; SARE EW99-013.

Comparison of compost and synthetic fertilizer treatments on corn yields and soil fertility in a two-year period. No significant difference was found in yields when compost increased beyond 6 tons/acre or synthetic N went beyond 80 lb./acre. From Iowa State University.