Backyard Composting
Research has shown that compost and composted products can help reduce water pollution ( Source : US Composting Council 2008 ). Compost products can be used directly and indirectly to prevent pollution or remediate polluted water and by replacing polluting activities with less polluting alternatives .
Organic wastes , such as leaves , branches , grass clippings and other yard waste products , are a major source of nonpoint source ( or stormwater ) pollution . The process of composting takes these raw materials and stabilizes them under controlled conditions . Stabilizing the material takes the nutrients , such as nitrogen , and ties them up in the compost ’ s organic matter . The nutrients are slowly released over time , increasing the opportunity for up-take by plants and reducing downstream water pollution problems .
What is Backyard Composting ?
Backyard composting refers to a variety of practices individuals can use to manage organic materials at home . All backyard composting techniques use the natural activity of bacteria , fungi , and other soil organisms to decompose organic materials and return them to the soil . Decomposed organic material — compost — is essential to healthy gardens and landscapes .
Benefits of Backyard Composting
Using compost has several positive benefits as related to Stormwater Pollution Prevention . Backyard composting can be the most economical and environmental way to manage organic materials produced at home . The benefits include :
�� Reduces the need for chemical pesticides because it contains beneficial microorganisms that protect your plants from diseases and pests .
�� Reduces or eliminates your use of synthetic fertilizers used in gardens and other yard areas .
�� Reduces herbicide use from using composted mulches for weed suppression .
�� Reduces soil loss from erosion because of improved soil structure .
�� Use of compost improves any soil . Compost makes soil better able to absorb and retain moisture reducing runoff , erosion , and irrigation needs .
�� Diverts organic material from landfills – Keeping these materials at home prolongs the life of landfills and reduces the expenses and environmental impacts associated with them .
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