[USCC] Methods of moisture application at compost facilities

[Paul Gamble]

Listserve--

Like many of you, I am constantly trying to make the composting operation and process more efficient.  I am writing to solicit anecdotes, experiences, and general wisdom on the application of water to compost facilities.  For the sake of narrowing the scope of this discussion so that I can "mine" the information that pertains to our geographic region and operation, here are a few details of our operations: outdoors, improved surfaces, decent buffer between our sites and neighbors, green (windrow) and food waste (Poly-flex (previously Ag-Bag vessels)) feedstock, combination of static and mechanically aerated windrows/piles, hot summers, mild winters with (lately) 25" of rain.  We currently use a water truck to apply water to our piles.

Based on my observations during the last 5 years, it seems that maintaining optimum moisture (the value of which changes during the life of the composting process) is the variable in California that most catalyzes the decomposition process.  I realize that water is far from the limiting factor in many region of the US and the world, but in most parts of California during most seasons, organic waste piles can't get enough of it.  If possible, I'd prefer to avoid discussion on moisture retention through covering piles with textiles, and focus mainly on effective moisture application to piles.

Here are the current methods that come to mind:

1) Water truck side spray and/ or boom application

2) Windrow turner fit with internal spray bar hooked up to either water truck or plumbed to water (Midwest Biosystems approach)

3) Irrigated site
	a) Oscillating sprinkler system
	b) Overhead sprinkler system
	c) Drip irrigation

Thanks for your input.

Paul Gamble
Compost Specialist
Norcal Waste Systems, Inc.
707.693.2107 (desk)
707.249.1821 (cell)
707.678.5148 (fax)
www.jepsonprairieorganics.com