From Compost Manual – A Complete Guide to Composting

Yard and food waste make up approximately thirty percent of the waste stream in the U.S. If every household participated in composting, it would divert a significant portion of the waste stream from our landfills and water treatment facilities.

General tips for starting a backyard compost pile:

* Choose a moderately sunny, accessible area for your composter. If you are using a compost bin, turn the soil in your chosen location.
* Start your green and brown layering process, beginning with a layer of small branches at the bottom that will allow for proper circulation and drainage.
* Top off your new pile with finished compost or good garden soil to ensure an introduction of bacteria to your waste.
* Aerate regularly by mixing, checking moisture content.
* More tips.