[USCC] Iowa Compost use

[Nic A. Stockdale]

Hi All,
 This is the first time I've posted anything here, but I like to keep up with 
what's discussed.  I'm a recent ISU graduate; I've also done some experimenting 
with composting at a NW Iowa farm.  Our product analysis tends to be about a 60-
40-25 per ton, so N tends to be about 40-60% available.  Corn application rate 
is anywhere from 1-2 tons per acre but commercial solid or anhydrous is 
sometimes added also.  We typically apply in the fall.  We prepare the compost 
at about 50-55% moisture and about 20-25 C:N ratio.  We always try for close to 
immediate moderate incorporation.  Tom Glanville in the ABE dept at ISU has 
done the most work with composting and Mark Hanna would know the most about use 
of compost in certain cropping systems.  Also Antonio Mallarino and John Sawyer 
in agronamy ext. would be able to tell you the most about NPK availability, 
soil fertility, and BMPs.  I'm new to industry for the most part, but these 
people are some Good Resources for this application.  Good luck Eugene.