Compost research on Wisconsin organic farm

Composted manure is applied to Harmony Valley Farms in Wisconsin to condition the soil, provide nutrients, control weeds, and reduce foliar diseases. A study of the benefits of compost applications conducted in 1997 and 1998 varied four treatments: a control, composted goat manure, composted dairy cow manure, and a commercial feathermeal/soybean meal product. The treatments had different effects on controlling diseases, but almost always increased crop yields. The compost now used is a dairy manure compost made on the farm and mixed with agricultural wastes. Challenges with on-farm composting include maintaining appropriate moisture balances and site drainage.