[USCC] Composting animal blood

[John Demaree]

As a regulator for the State of Texas I am wondering what are the
problems/dangers inherent in composting blood?  I believe that there are
concerns about the growth of pathogens, though good composting
techniques should put this in check.
The proposal is for animal blood from a slaughterhouse to be composted
with woodchips, animal manure, paunch manure and cotton burrs.
 
Should there be decontamination of windrow turning equipment?
Should this be done on an impermeable pad?
How often should this compost be turned?
Any special requirements for pathogen testing?
Extra control for vectors such as flies?
'Special' odor problems?
How do you add blood to a woodchip pile and not have some of it 'run'
right through?
 
I know that's quite a list of questions, but if you know of any other
concerns I would greatly appreciate the input!
 
Thanks in advance for any information.
 
Sincerely,
 
 
 
 
John Demaree, MS
Program Specialist II
TCEQ - MSW Permits Section
512 239-1268