Composting in Lincoln, Nebraska offers residents an eco-friendly way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for gardens and landscaping. The City of Lincoln supports composting efforts through its LinGRO Compost program, which processes yard waste and food scraps collected from residents and businesses.
Lincoln’s commitment to sustainability extends to its waste management practices, with composting playing a crucial role in diverting organic materials from landfills. Residents can participate in composting through backyard systems or by utilizing the city’s collection services. The resulting compost helps improve soil quality, conserve water, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.
For those interested in starting their own compost pile, the Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County offers resources and guidance. Additionally, local waste management companies provide food waste pickup services for both residential and commercial customers, making it easier for Lincoln residents to embrace zero waste principles and contribute to a more sustainable community.
The Basics of Composting
Composting is a natural process that transforms organic materials into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. This beneficial practice improves soil health and promotes plant growth while reducing waste.
What Is Compost?
Compost is a dark, crumbly substance created from decomposed organic materials. It forms when microorganisms break down plant matter, food scraps, and other biodegradable items. The process requires a balanced mix of:
- Green materials (nitrogen-rich): Grass clippings, fruit and vegetable scraps
- Brown materials (carbon-rich): Dry leaves, twigs, paper
- Water
- Oxygen
Proper composting maintains a ratio of about 3 parts brown to 1 part green materials. This balance ensures efficient decomposition and prevents unpleasant odors.
Benefits of Composting for Soil
Compost acts as a powerful soil amendment, offering numerous advantages for plant growth and soil health:
- Improved soil structure: Compost enhances soil’s ability to retain water and nutrients.
- Nutrient boost: It provides essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Increased microbial activity: Beneficial organisms thrive in compost-enriched soil.
- pH balance: Compost helps neutralize soil acidity or alkalinity.
Gardeners can apply a 2-4 inch layer of compost to garden beds in spring or fall. This practice enriches the soil, leading to healthier plants and improved crop yields.
Understanding the Composting Process
Composting transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich soil through natural decomposition. This process involves specific stages, a balance of materials, and the activity of microorganisms.
Stages of Composting
The composting process consists of four main stages. In the mesophilic stage, microorganisms multiply rapidly, breaking down easily degradable compounds. As their activity increases, temperatures rise, leading to the thermophilic stage. Here, temperatures reach 104-149°F, killing pathogens and weed seeds.
As the easily digestible materials are consumed, the cooling phase begins. Temperatures drop, and fungi become more prominent in breaking down tougher materials. Finally, the curing stage allows the compost to mature, becoming stable and ready for use.
Balancing Greens and Browns
A successful compost pile requires a proper balance of “green” and “brown” materials. Greens are nitrogen-rich materials like food scraps, grass clippings, and fresh plant matter. Browns are carbon-rich materials such as dry leaves, straw, and wood chips.
The ideal ratio is about 3 parts brown to 1 part green by volume. This balance provides the right nutrients for microorganisms and helps control moisture and odor. Too much green can lead to a smelly, wet pile, while too much brown can slow decomposition.
Role of Microorganisms
Microorganisms are the workhorses of composting. Bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes break down organic materials, releasing heat, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. These microbes thrive in warm, moist conditions with adequate oxygen.
Bacteria are the most numerous and play a crucial role in initial decomposition. Fungi and actinomycetes become more important in later stages, breaking down tougher materials like cellulose and lignin. Their activity helps reduce the volume of organic waste and creates a nutrient-rich end product.
Composting Methods
Lincoln residents have several effective options for turning organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. Each method offers unique benefits and can be adapted to different living situations and waste volumes.
Backyard Composting
Backyard composting is a popular method for homeowners in Lincoln. It requires a designated outdoor space and a mix of green and brown materials. Green materials include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings. Brown materials consist of dry leaves, twigs, and shredded paper.
To start, create a pile or use a bin in a sunny spot. Layer green and brown materials, maintaining a ratio of about 3 parts brown to 1 part green. Turn the pile regularly to aerate it and add water as needed to keep it moist but not soggy.
The compost is ready when it’s dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling, typically in 3-6 months. Use it to enrich garden soil or as a natural fertilizer for plants.
Vermicomposting
Vermicomposting uses worms to break down organic matter, making it ideal for apartments or homes with limited outdoor space. Red wigglers are the most common worms used for this method.
To begin, obtain a bin with drainage holes and fill it with bedding material like shredded newspaper. Add the worms and feed them fruit and vegetable scraps, avoiding meat, dairy, and oily foods.
Maintain proper moisture levels and temperature (55-77°F) for optimal worm activity. Harvest the compost every 3-4 months by moving the contents to one side and adding fresh bedding to the other. The worms will migrate, leaving behind nutrient-rich castings.
Commercial Composting
For those unable to compost at home, Lincoln offers commercial composting services. Uribe Refuse Services provides residential and commercial food waste pickup.
This method allows for a wider range of compostable materials, including meat and dairy products. Customers receive a bin to collect food scraps and other organic waste. The bin is picked up regularly and taken to a commercial facility for processing.
Commercial composting uses controlled conditions to break down materials faster than home methods. The resulting compost is often used in large-scale landscaping projects or sold to gardeners.
Selecting Your Composting Setup
Choosing the right composting setup is crucial for successful composting in Lincoln, NE. The location and system you select will impact the efficiency and convenience of your composting efforts.
Finding the Right Location
When selecting a location for your compost pile or bin in Lincoln, consider accessibility and sunlight exposure. Choose a spot that’s easy to reach from your kitchen and garden. Aim for partial shade to maintain moisture levels.
Ensure the area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Keep the compost at least 2 feet away from buildings to avoid potential structural issues. If space is limited, look into indoor composting options like vermicomposting.
Consider your neighbors when placing outdoor compost bins. Position them away from property lines to minimize any potential odor concerns.
Choosing a Composting System
Lincoln residents have several composting system options to choose from. Backyard compost bins are popular for those with yard space. These can be purchased or built using wood or wire mesh.
For smaller spaces or apartments, consider compact tumbling composters or indoor worm bins. These systems are efficient and can process kitchen scraps quickly.
Lincoln also offers community composting options. Residents can participate in compost pickup services, where food scraps are collected and processed at a larger composting facility.
For those with large volumes of yard waste, open compost piles work well. These require more space but can handle significant amounts of leaves and grass clippings.
Choose a system that fits your space, lifestyle, and the amount of organic waste you generate. Consider factors like ease of use, maintenance requirements, and processing speed when making your decision.
Material Management
Proper material selection is crucial for successful composting in Lincoln, NE. Knowing which items to include and avoid ensures a healthy, nutrient-rich compost pile.
Acceptable Compostable Materials
Yard waste forms the foundation of most compost piles in Lincoln. Grass clippings, leaves, and small twigs are excellent carbon-rich materials. Food waste also plays a vital role, contributing nitrogen. Fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells are ideal additions.
Non-recyclable paper products can be composted as well. These include paper towels, napkins, and cardboard egg cartons. Shredded newspaper acts as a good carbon source.
Lincoln residents can add the following to their compost:
- Fruit and vegetable peels
- Tea bags and coffee filters
- Nut shells
- Sawdust from untreated wood
- Hair and fur
Items to Avoid in Your Compost Pile
Certain materials can harm your compost or attract pests. Meat, dairy, and oily foods should be kept out of home compost piles. These items can create odors and draw unwanted animals.
Avoid adding the following to your compost:
- Diseased plants
- Weeds with seeds
- Pet waste
- Chemically treated yard waste
- Glossy or colored paper
Plastic bags and other non-biodegradable items must never be included. These materials won’t break down and can contaminate the compost. Yard waste treated with pesticides should also be excluded to maintain a safe, chemical-free compost.
Composting Guidelines and Best Practices
Proper composting techniques ensure efficient decomposition and high-quality compost. Following key guidelines helps maintain a healthy pile and resolve common issues.
Maintaining the Pile
Mix “green” and “brown” materials in a 1:3 ratio. Greens include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and grass clippings. Browns encompass dry leaves, straw, and shredded paper. Keep the pile moist, similar to a wrung-out sponge. Turn the compost every 1-2 weeks to aerate it.
Monitor the temperature. A well-functioning pile should reach 130-150°F in its core. Use a compost thermometer to check. If the pile is too cool, add more green materials and turn it. In winter, insulate the pile with straw or leaves to maintain heat.
The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy recommends avoiding meat, dairy, and oily foods in home compost piles to prevent odors and pests.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Foul odors often indicate excess moisture or lack of oxygen. Add dry brown materials and turn the pile more frequently. If the pile is too dry and decomposition slows, add water and green materials.
Pests can be deterred by burying food scraps in the center of the pile and covering with brown materials. Use a rodent-proof bin if needed. For fruit flies, cover fresh scraps with a layer of finished compost or soil.
If the pile isn’t heating up, check the size. A pile should be at least 3 feet cubed to generate sufficient heat. Add more materials or combine multiple small piles if necessary. Ensure a good balance of greens and browns.
Using Finished Compost
Finished compost offers numerous benefits as a soil amendment and fertilizer substitute. Its proper use can significantly enhance plant growth and soil health in gardens and landscapes.
Determining Compost Maturity
Quality compost should have a dark, crumbly texture and earthy smell. Mature compost no longer heats up and contains no recognizable original materials. To test maturity, place a handful in a sealed plastic bag for 24 hours. If it develops an ammonia smell, it needs more time to decompose.
A simple germination test can also assess compost readiness. Mix equal parts compost and potting soil, then plant fast-growing seeds like radishes or lettuce. If most seeds sprout within a week, the compost is likely mature.
Applications of Compost
Compost serves as an excellent soil amendment, improving structure and fertility. For new garden beds, mix 2-3 inches of compost into the top 6-8 inches of soil before planting. In established beds, apply a 1/2 inch layer around plants annually.
As a mulch, spread 1-2 inches of compost around trees, shrubs, and perennials. This helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. For potted plants, blend compost into potting mix at a 1:3 ratio.
Compost tea, made by steeping compost in water, provides a nutrient boost for plants. Apply it as a foliar spray or soil drench every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Community and City Involvement
Lincoln, Nebraska actively promotes composting through city programs and partnerships with local producers. These initiatives aim to reduce organic waste and create nutrient-rich soil for gardening and agriculture.
City of Lincoln Composting Programs
The City of Lincoln offers various composting resources and services. Residents can attend composting demonstrations led by Master Gardeners to learn proper techniques. The city also provides information on backyard composting through Nebraska Extension’s resources and the EPA’s guidelines for home composting.
Lincoln Public Schools initiated an organic waste composting program in 2015, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainable practices. This program helps divert food scraps and yard waste from landfills.
The city encourages businesses and institutions to participate in organic waste collection. Several firms offer these services, contributing to Lincoln’s overall waste reduction efforts.
Local Compost Producers
Prairieland Dairy is a prominent local compost producer in the Lincoln area. They process organic waste into high-quality compost for agricultural and gardening use.
Uribe Refuse Services, through its Waste to Energy Lincoln division, converts food and yard waste into renewable natural gas. This innovative approach not only produces compost but also fuels their natural gas-powered collection vehicles.
These local producers play a crucial role in Lincoln’s composting ecosystem. They help close the loop on organic waste management, creating valuable products from materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Environmental Impact and Advancements
Composting in Lincoln, NE plays a crucial role in waste reduction and environmental sustainability. It diverts organic materials from landfills and contributes to mitigating climate change impacts.
Reduction of Waste to Landfills
Lincoln’s composting efforts significantly decrease the amount of waste sent to landfills. During the growing season, yard waste can account for nearly 10% of Lincoln’s total waste stream. The city bans yard waste from the landfill from April 1 through November 30.
This ban encourages residents to compost leaves, grass clippings, and branches. Local initiatives like Big Red Worms convert over 390 tons of food and 800 tons of animal waste into rich living compost annually. By diverting these materials, Lincoln extends the life of its landfills and reduces the need for new disposal sites.
Composting also creates a valuable resource for gardening and agriculture. The nutrient-rich soil produced enhances plant growth and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
Composting and Climate Change
Composting helps combat climate change by reducing methane emissions from landfills. When organic materials decompose in landfills, they produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
By composting instead, Lincoln residents minimize these emissions. The process of composting releases primarily carbon dioxide, which has a lower global warming potential than methane.
Additionally, compost-enriched soil can sequester carbon, further aiding climate change mitigation efforts. It improves soil structure, enhances water retention, and promotes healthier plant growth. These factors contribute to increased carbon storage in both soil and vegetation.
Lincoln’s composting initiatives align with broader Nebraska efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices. The city’s commitment to composting demonstrates a proactive approach to environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
Compost Collection and Recycling Initiatives
Lincoln offers several options for residents and businesses to participate in composting and recycling programs. These initiatives aim to reduce waste and promote sustainability throughout the city.
Compost Pickup Services
Uribe Refuse Services provides compost pickup for Lincoln residents. As of July 2021, standalone composting service costs $15 per month, while bundled with recycling or garbage pickup, it’s $8 monthly. This service accepts a wide range of organic materials, including food scraps, yard waste, and certified compostable plastics.
Lincoln Public Schools started an organic waste composting program in 2015, demonstrating the city’s commitment to sustainable practices in educational institutions. Several local companies offer organic waste collection for businesses and organizations in Lincoln, expanding composting opportunities beyond residential areas.
Partnering with Waste to Energy Programs
Waste to Energy Lincoln, a division of Uribe Refuse Services, converts food and yard waste into renewable natural gas. This innovative program fuels Uribe’s natural gas-powered collection vehicles, creating a circular economy for waste management in the city.
The city’s Solid Waste Management department produces EarthFuel compost from collected leaves, grass, and woodchips. This compost is available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, encouraging residents to use locally-produced, sustainable soil amendments in their gardens and landscaping projects.
Lincoln’s Biochar Initiative focuses on regenerating wood waste into a reusable product for creating healthy soil. This program showcases the city’s efforts to find creative solutions for various types of organic waste.