Design and Implementation of a Searchable Database on Compost Production and Use for Internet Users

Design and Implementation of a Searchable Database on Compost Production and Use for Internet Users

Summary

Summary
This project is designed to create easy access to information on compost production, use, regulations and current projects through a network of linkages on the Internet between compost databases, bibliographies, websites, project listings, expert contacts and federal and state regulations.

Objective
Provide easy access to various types of information on compost production, use, regulations, current projects and advances by developing a network of linkages among various compost databases and the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) Home Page. Information will include: existing bibliographic databases and sources for scientific and industry journal articles; surveys; research project listings (including current international studies); extension specialist contacts; field study site annotations and current disposition; federal and state regulations and guidelines (with issuing office links) for compost production and beneficial uses; and worker/farmer/neighbor health-related issues.

Abstract
Cities and farms must find safe, economical and acceptable ways to utilize the organic by-products (animal manures, landscape trimmings, and food processing, supermarket and restaurant waste) they can no longer landfill or stockpile. Rural-urban partnerships for recycling and resource conservation can be forged to close the existing gap in the production-consumption cycle. The current one-way flow of nutrients from farms to cities can be re-directed through a critical feedback loop to sustain productivity through soil organic matter replenishment. Co-composts would provide U.S. agriculture and horticulture with safe, economical, topsoil amendments and replacements. Public acceptance of co-composts is an essential component of rural-urban ventures. This project will provide the means for interested persons to easily access various types of information on compost production, use and regulations through a network of linkages among various compost databases and the Sustainable Agriculture Network Home Page. This will be accomplished by adapting the following databases for inclusion: existing bibliographic databases and sources for scientific and industry journal articles; surveys; research project listings; extension specialist contacts; field study site annotations with current disposition; federal and state regulations (with issuing office links) and guidelines for compost production and beneficial uses; and worker/ farmer/ neighbor health-related issues.

Collaborators: