Frequently Asked Questions: Organic Soils Section

Composting

• Is composting of manure a required practice in organic farming?
• Why is composting a recommended practice in organic farming?
• Are there drawbacks to on-farm composting?
• What regulations apply to on-farm composting?
• What are the standards for compost in organic farming?
• What standards, regulations, or other quality control mechanisms determine whether off-farm produced composts (municipal or commercial) are acceptable for use in organic production?
• What composting methods are appropriate for on-farm composting?
• Which is better in terms of improving soil fertility - compost or green manures?

Note: The National Standard of Canada - Organic Agriculture (CAN/CGSB-32.310-99) (hereon referred to as the "Canadian organic standard") is currently under revision, in order to harmonize the standard with standards and regulations required by Codex, the United States, the European Union, and Japan. While the Canadian organic standard is at present voluntary, the current review includes a consideration of provisions to be made in the event it becomes mandatory. Click here to read the Draft documents of the standard, which are available for public review.