Athens- Hocking Solid Waste District Compost Facility Tour

This compost facility uses forced air static piles to help facilitate the decomposition of organic materials. In order to efficiently break down these organic materials (food scraps, yard waste, BPI certified compostable serviceware) AHSWD uses forced air static piles to push air up into the piles to create optimal conditions for the microbes and fungi to thrive. These micro organisms break down the feedstock, creating high quality soil amendment for our gardens.

AHSWD partners with local businesses and residents to compost organic food waste. Over 3-6 months, with consistent monitoring the food waste breaks down, is cured, screened and lab tested before it is bagged/ available for bulk compost sales to farmers and gardeners.

Compost is a great way to encourage foliage and root growth in plants, water retention in the soil, and reduce methane production if the same organic material were to be placed in the landfill where these microorganisms cannot survive

Rural Action strives to promote local partnerships to educate and support our communities through connecting individuals to resources, sharing best practices and providing hands-on support. In April, Rural Action partnered with OHIO University to host another community tour of their in vessel compost facility. These different facilities utilize different techniques to create high quality soil amendment. These two facilities serve a vital role in reducing organic waste going to the landfill in our communities.

If you have questions about this tour please email: [email protected]