Small Scale or Backyard Composting

This page provides links to educational resources aimed at both people interested in composting at their homes, schools, or business and others who want to promote small scale composting.

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A significant fraction of the solid waste generated in the United States is organic materialthat can be recycled through small scale composting. There are many advantages to this strategy of waste management. Households, businesses and institutions may save money by composting items such as food scraps and yard trimmings while sending less waste to landfills and incinerators. In addition, small scale composting is often the most environmentally sound way of recycling organic materials. The finished compost is a good soil amendment for a variety of gardening and landscape uses.

Health Considerations. Health concerns relating to compost are dependent both on the individual and on the material being composted. Dog and cat manures can contain harmful pathogens and should be avoided. While few human pathogenic organisms are found in vegetative wastes, normal sanitary measures (i.e., washing hands before touching food, eyes, etc.) are important. Although most people are unlikely to have any problems, there are a few concerns which place some individuals at risk.

Just as individuals vary in their resistance to disease, a few individuals may be particularly sensitive to some of the organisms in compost. The high populations of many different species of molds and fungi in an active compost process can cause allergic responses in some people, though most experience no adverse reaction. One of these fungal species, Aspergillus fumigatus, can infect the respiratory system of a sensitive person who is heavily exposed. Conditions that may predispose individuals to infection or an allergic response include: a weakened immune system, allergies, asthma, some medications such as antibiotics and adrenal cortical hormones, or a punctured eardrum. People with these conditions should avoid turning compost piles or take precautions to minimize exposure.

To minimize these potential risks, common OSHA approved dust masks can be worn under dry and dusty conditions, especially when the compost is being turned. If, following these precautions, individuals still develop an infection or have an allergic reaction to compost, they should consult a medical professional.

Home Garden Use of Milorganite®. A two-page fact sheet addressing questions and answers about the use of dried sewage sludge material in the home garden. 2006

Health & Safety Guidance for Small Scale Composting. A two-page fact sheet resulting from a study conducted by CWMI to explore the presence and distribution of bacterial pathogens in small scale compost bins and piles. The full report is also available at: Hygienic Implications of Small-Scale Composting in New York State.  

Health & Safety Guidance for Composting in the School Setting. A two-page fact sheet providing guidance for those concerned about exposure to compost.

Preventing Animal Nuisances in Small Scale Composting. A two-page fact sheet describing how to "nuisance proof" your compost.

 

For more information, contact your local Cooperative Extension Office.