Sustainable Solutions

Compost Consulting

Expert guidance on establishing composting operations, equipment design, and process optimization.

Start Composting

Let us help you establish an on-farm composting operation that improves your soil.

What We Offer

Complete support for your composting journey

Program Benefits

We show you how compost can benefit your existing fertility programs and improve soil health.

Operation Setup

We assist in establishing composting operations on your property from start to finish.

Equipment Design

We help design systems and obtain the right equipment for your scale and needs.

Process Training

We instruct your team on the composting process to ensure quality results.

Benefits of Quality Compost

Why growers are adding compost to their fertility programs

Improves soil structure and water-holding capacity
Adds beneficial microorganisms to your soil
Provides slow-release nutrients throughout the season
Increases organic matter content
Reduces need for synthetic fertilizers over time
Helps suppress soil-borne diseases
Improves soil aeration and drainage
Recycles on-farm organic waste productively

Our Consulting Process

1

Assessment

We evaluate your operation, available materials, and goals for composting.

2

Design

We design a composting system appropriate for your scale and materials.

3

Equipment

We help source the right equipment—turners, screens, thermometers, etc.

4

Training

Your team learns proper composting techniques for consistent quality.

5

Integration

We help integrate finished compost into your overall fertility program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials can I compost on my farm?

Common farm feedstocks include grape pomace, vegetable culls, cover crop residue, manure, and green waste. The key is balancing carbon-rich (browns) and nitrogen-rich (greens) materials. We help you evaluate available materials and design recipes that produce quality finished compost.

What permits do I need for on-farm composting in California?

California regulations depend on scale and materials. Small on-farm operations using only agricultural materials may qualify for exemptions. Larger operations or those accepting off-farm materials may need permits from Regional Water Quality Control Boards. We help navigate these requirements.

How long does it take to produce finished compost?

Active composting typically takes 3-6 months, followed by a curing period. Windrow systems with regular turning can finish faster than static piles. Temperature and moisture management are critical—proper technique produces stable, mature compost ready for field application.

What equipment do I need to start composting?

Minimum equipment includes a thermometer and moisture meter. Most operations benefit from a loader or tractor with bucket for pile management. Larger operations may need windrow turners, screens for sizing, and irrigation for moisture control. We help right-size equipment to your scale.

How much compost should I apply per acre?

Application rates typically range from 2-10 tons per acre depending on soil conditions and crop needs. Low organic matter soils benefit from higher initial rates. Established programs often apply 2-4 tons annually for maintenance. We recommend rates based on your soil tests and goals.

Ready to Start Composting?

Contact us to discuss how we can help you establish a successful composting operation.