2019 South Coastal BC Compost Guide -SPEC

Posted by Michalina Hunter on April 16, 2019

South Coastal BC Compost Guide

Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC) has released a fantastic compost guide, updated for 2019. It contains information on identifying quality compost, how much to apply, and where to buy in the Lower Mainland.

We hope this is helpful resource as you plan your farm amendments this season!

Download the Compost Guide here: 2019-SPEC-Compost-Guide.pdf

What is this Compost Guide about?

This publication is an updated version of the 2018 ‘Composts for Farm Use Survey’ SPEC document created with the purpose of pursuing the issues relevant to the evaluation of local composts for farm use. For more in-depth discussions of the selection and use of composts.

Why are local composts important?

Soils on small farms and gardens in south coastal BC are often in need of supplemental organic matter and nutrients, especially nitrogen. When sourcing agricultural inputs to add organic matter and nutrients to the soil, it is vital to consider the options that are available locally. Using composts derived from local feedstocks (e.g. livestock manures, food wastes and yard trimmings), instead of imported conventional or organic nutrient sources, reduces the environmental impact in the region and can be more economical. This guide was created to help agriculture become more locally nutrient self-sufficient, as there is an overabundance of nutrients in this region, that left unused, can cause environmental problems.

Why should I apply compost to my farm?

There are many benefits!

  • Source of nutrients
  • Increased nutrient retention
  • Increased water retention
  • Improves soil structure and aeration
  • Increased soil organism abundance and diversity = increased nutrient cycling

Download the Compost Guide here: 2019-SPEC-Compost-Guide.pdf