The land immediately surrounding the landfill belongs to Freeport-McMoRan; the land is not currently being mined. It is therefore recommended to consult with FreeportMcMoRan to expand the landfill to accommodate space for delivering organic materials. It is difficult to determine the size of the windrows or the plot of land needed to support a composting operation in Ajo, but such specifics can be calculated by using a worksheet from the Highfields Center for Composting in Hardwick, Vermont, attached in Appendix F.
Worms can also be used to engage children in learning about soils, biology, and gardening. It also provides an avenue for people without a lot of space to become involved in an agricultural activity (and reduce their waste). Summary Composting would build desert soil naturally lacking in organic matter. The cultivation of desert-adapted crops are recommended to increase Ajo’s food production without increasing artificial inputs.
Vermicomposting raised beds Photo Credit: Wikimedia commons
Worm Composting Vermicomposting (composting with worms) can process organic waste, and can be done on a small scale at home, in schools, or in restaurants. In apartments or places lacking in space, something as simple as a five-gallon bucket can be used to house worms. As with other types of composting, maintaining the proper aeration and moisture level prevents odors. Materials high in carbon are required for worm bedding: shredded newspaper, cardboard or straw work well. Making sure the worms are kept out of the hot sun is another important consideration in caring for worms—especially important in the desert.
A Sonoran Oasis soil & Vegetation
37