During July we have been working to produce
aerobic compost at the Willits Energy Farm. The compost project of July and
August is important because we are seeking to demonstrate a model of
sustainable farming practices that focus on soil fertility and includes an on-site
composting center. The challenge for this project is to produce 10 piles of
aerobic compost by sometime in August.

Currently, there are three piles that have reached high
temperatures of up to 150°F and are now entering their “cool down” phase where
they will sit until the fall. These piles have turned from a mixture of green
and yellow to a dark brown/black color. Three other piles are beginning to
decompose and will need to be turned a couple of more times before being
allowed to cure. We are going to let the piles sit for a couple of months so
that they can mature and allow the compost to develop a diverse set of micro
organisms including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and macro arthropods.

Quality compost is the substance and inoculum in which
a farmer can add organic matter to the soil and promote nutrient cycling. This is a natural
way in which a farmer can promote healthy plants, resist soil born
diseases, and ensure the fertility of the land for years to come. By producing
quality compost it is possible to eliminate the need for non-organic fertilizers
and pesticides because the soil will be very healthy and feed the plants in a
way that will help make them less susceptible to pests. It is useful to think
of pests as a way that nature “selects against” diseased and unhealthy plants. When
a plant is unhealthy it puts out a signal that insects tune-in to. Soon the bugs
come to eliminate the sick plant from the area, effectively selecting against
the weakest plant

Three Piles Under 50% Shade Cloth to Prevent Drying-Out

Compost Section Evolving to Accommodate More Piles