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Agricultural Composting Program

Compost Directory [PDF] - This directory includes sites that have finished compost for sale or will receive organic waste or manure(s) from the public.

Agricultural Compost Site Registration Application [PDF] - 330 CMR 25.03

The Department may register agricultural composting operations if the Department determines that:
1) the compost operation is located on agricultural unit;
2) the applicant has submitted a completed application;
3) the applicant agrees to a site visit;
4) the applicant demonstrates knowledge and capability to conduct the agricultural composting operation to produce a stabalized compost product.

If the department finds that any portion of the Agricultraul Composting Registration application includes false or misleading information, or the operation of a registered composting facility is in violation of the regulations or guidlines, or is acting not in the best interest of Massachusetts agriculture, the Department may suspend or revoke the registartion which will also revoke the exemption status and thereby the operatior must comply with DEP Regulations for Determination of Need for Site Assignment as set forth in 310 CMR 16.05(4).

310 CMR 16.05(4)(c)   Agricultural Waste Composting. A composting operation for agricultural wastes, when located on a farm engaged in "agriculture" or "farming" as defined in M.G.L. c. 128, § 1A. Such composting operation may, in addition to agricultural wastes, utilize the following compostable materials, provided the operation is registered and complies with policies of the Department of Food and Agriculture:
1.   leaf and yard waste;
2.   wood wastes;
3.   clean newspaper or cardboard;
4.   clean, compostable (i.e. thin) shells, and clean bones;
5.   non-agricultural sources of manures and animal bedding materials.
6.   less than 20 cubic yards or less than ten tons per day of vegetative material; and
7.   less than ten cubic yards or less than five tons per day of food material.

For more information, contact William Blanchard, 617-626-1709, William.Blanchard@state.ma.us.

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