Problem / Symptom

Probable Cause

Suggestions

Failure to Decompose

• Too dry

• Too wet

• Improper C:N ratio or bulking agent used is too porous.

• Adverse environment

• Improper C:N ratio

• Carcasses layered too thickly

• Carcasses placed on the outside edge of the pile

• Add water

• Add bulking agent and turn pile

• Evaluate bulking agent and adjust amount as necessary

• Ensure adequate cover with bulking agent to provide insulation

• Turn pile and adjust amount of bulking agent

• Single layer the carcasses

• Maintain one foot of space between carcasses and outside edge of bins

Odour

• Too wet 

• Too low C:N ratio

• Air flow restricted

• Inadequate cover over carcasses

• Extended periods of low temperature

• Add bulking agent and turn pile

• Evaluate type of bulking agent used. Add bulking agent

• Maintain one foot of bulking agent near outside of bin. Turn pile

• Cover carcasses with one foot of bulking agent

• Follow steps in temperature section

Flies

• Inadequate cover over carcasses

• Poor sanitation conditions

• Failure to achieve proper temperature

• Too wet

• Cover carcasses with one foot of bulking agent

• Avoid leaching from pile. Maintain a clean, debris free area near the pile

• Follow steps in temperature section

• Open/remove pile contents and add additional bulking agent

Scavenging Animals

• Inadequate cover over carcasses

• Maintain at least two foot of cover

• Avoid initial entry by establishing a fence or barrier

Click here to return to

Table of Contents

Click here to Continue

Carcass Composting Links