This study was carried out on two beef farms in southwestern Ontario. Beef mortalities were composted using the current recommended practices for Ontario. Three substrate materials were evaluated: bedded cattle manure, wood shavings and corn silage. Small compost piles, each holding 2 or 3 mortalities, were created on an earth base. Large square bales were used for at least 3 walls of each pile. Temperatures inside the piles were recorded throughout the cycle. At the 6 month period, the piles

more »

... re opened up and samples collected for analysis. This was repeated at the one-year period, when the composting process was assumed to be complete. Results will be presented on the labour inputs, costs, chemical and microbial analysis results, management challenges, visual indicators and general practicality of using this disposal method for large carcasses on cattle farms.