[USCC] typical compost density

Fri Jun 22 12:42:09 CDT 2007

Karen, I know this does not answer your specific question, but hopefully
it will give you some ballpark numbers.  I recently received lab
analysis for composted dairy manure from northern Colorado.  The wet
bulk density was 1200 pounds/CY (44 pounds/CF).  The moisture content
(TMECC 03.09-A) was 32%. Note that TMECC reports moisture content on a
wet weight basis.  Using typical SSSA (dry weight) method, this
correlates to 47%. The C:N ratio was 13:1.  

Note that this is finished compost.  I don't know how much, if any
bedding material was included.  

At 35:1, I expect that your compost will have more straw and a lower
density.

Michael W. Bellitto
Restoration Ecologist

Golder Associates Inc.
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-----Original Message-----
From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com
[mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of Hoffman,
Karen - Bozeman, MT
Sent: Tuesday, June 19, 2007 2:30 PM
To: compost at mailman.cloudnet.com
Subject: [USCC] typical compost density

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I am planning a bin system for composting cattle manure with a chopped
straw amendment.  We planning a mix that will achieve a C:N ratio of 35
and moisture content of 60%.  I am wondering if anyone has data
regarding what the density of this mix of material will be the first
bin?  The bins are 12 ft wide by 8 ft high.  

The bin system we plan to use involves aerating with forced air and
moving the material from one bin to the next every 2 weeks.  The
material will be held in the bin system a total of 12 weeks (est. 1
month active composting and 2 months curing).  What would I expect the
density to be at the end of this 12 week process?

_________________________________________
Karen Hoffman, Civil Engineer
Natural Resources Conservation Service
Federal Building, Room 443
10 E. Babcock Street
Bozeman, MT  59715
karen.hoffman at mt.usda.gov
Phone: (406) 587-6824
Fax: (406) 587-6761

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