An understanding of composting, the biological decomposition of organic matter, is necessary for both the backyard and municipal system composter. Time, volume, type, use and end product quality are considerations in the composting process. Such a project can result in a high-quality compost that has value both as a product for home use and commercial market demand for landscapers, golf courses, nurseries, etc.

Composting Links

• Backyard Composting (PDF: 446 KB / 8 pages) - New Mexico State University
• Composting and Mulching: A Guide to Managing Organic Yard Waste - University of Minnesota
• Composting: Nature's Way to Recycle (PDF: 645 KB / 7 pages) - California Integrated Waste Management Board
• Cornell Composting - Cornell University
• Farm-Scale Composting Resource List - ATTRA
• Making and Using Compost at Home (PDF: 82 KB / 4 pages) - Kansas State University
• Notes on Compost Teas - ATTRA
• On Farm Composting Handbook - Cornell University
• Structures for Backyard Composting - University of Minnesota
• Understanding the Composting Process (PDF: 165 KB / 4 pages) - University of Arkansas
• Vermicomposting - New Mexico State University
• Worms for Composting - ATTRA

Associations and Other Resources

• Biocycle: Journal of Composting and Recycling
• Composting Publications - US EPA

MDA Contact

Meg Moynihan
Minnesota Farm Opportunities
651-201-6616
Ag Marketing & Development Division