Golf Course ConsultantCALTRANS Compost Specification & Utilization Project

William Baker serves as project manager and golf course consultant, overseeing a multi-agency and industry effort. This effort promotes additional compost use on California Department of Transportation projects.  The California Integrated Waste Management Board is providing the funding. The contract is being managed by University of California Extension. Technical and logistical assistance being provided by the Association of Compost Producers.

The goal of the project is:

  • Developing of a compost classification system.
  • Revisiting compost application specifications.
  • Writing a compost training manual.
  • Holding nine (9) workshops across the State of California.

This project has been highly successful and serves as a template for subsequent projects with similar goals.

 

 

Compost is Beneficial!
Compost contains macro and micronutrients usually missing in synthetic fertilizers. Unlike synthetic fertilizer, compost releases nutrients gradually — over months or years. Compost enriched soil absorbs fertilizers better, as such fertilizer runs off to pollute waterways.
Compost brings & supports diverse life in the soil. Bacteria, fungi, insects, worms and more support healthy plant growth. Compost can curb diseases and harmful pests that could overwhelm poor, lifeless soil.
Compost boosts healthy root systems. This decreases runoff. Compost can reduce or erase the use of synthetic fertilizers. A 5% increase in organic material quadruples the water holding capacity of soil.