Step 4 - Manure solids fall from the conveyor into static aerated compost piles. Air is forced through channels and holes in the floor to provide oxygen to the decomposing materials.

Step 5 - Manure solids are left on the aerated floor for 30 to 50 days reaching temperatures of 120 to 150 degrees F for 21 days or more. This thermophilic process kills all weed seeds and harmful pathogens. At this point we have immature compost. As the material begins to cool, a portion is applied to beds of earthworms known as red wigglers (Eisenia foetida). The remainder is moved outside to windrows to finish its curing process.