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Abstract

One lawful method to dispose of animal carcasses is composting. Mortality composting is a “green” method that provides the producer with valuable soil amendments. Composting sites should be away from water sources and public areas. Some states require a facility and/or permit for carcass composting so producers should contact their State Veterinarian. Animal composting generates little to no odor and generates temperatures high enough to kill pathogens. Mortality composting is an aerobic process and requires a proper C:N ratio achieved by using a high carbon source to envelop the carcass, moisture content of roughly 50%, and available oxygen. Common composting materials are sawdust, ground hay or straw, rice hulls, and stable waste. It can be done using permanent structures or low-cost alternatives. About half of the resulting compost can be used to establish a new pile. Compost from mortality composting can be used on pastures, in landscaping, and elsewhere.

Keywords: Mortality, Composting, Goat

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