"Organic" Compost

What is the difference between "little o" organic and "Big O" Organic.. and what does it mean for your compost?

In chemistry and biology, the term organic refers to carbon compounds associated with living organisms. In food and agriculture the term Organic is used to differentiate food and fiber products that have been produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides and are Certified Organic by the USDA.

There is no such thing as Certified Organic Compost.

Only food and fiber crops can be certified as Organic by the USDA. In order for compost to be used in the production of crops that are USDA Certified Organic, it must meet certain criteria:

• Compost is managed to ensure that all of the feedstock heats to the minimum of 131 F for a minimum of three days.

• Compost does not contain biosolids or other prohibited substances

The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a third party entity that provides an independent review of products used in certified organic production and processing. This makes it easier for farmers to determine what products are allowable and helps manufacturers and retailers. You may see the OMRI label on bagged composts or soil blends and your local garden center.

At Dirt Works Wyoming, we make compost that meets the USDA standards for use on Certified Organic crops.

Notice that all three of these products are organic using our dictionary definition of organic shared previously, however only one manufacturer has opted for the third-party OMRI certification.