Livingston County Michigan Solid Waste Management - Home Composting

Problem

Cause

Solution

Compost not breaking down

	Too many brown materials
	Pile too dry
	Pile too wet
	Pile too small

	Add more green materials
	Add water
	Turn the pile to aerate
	Build pile to 1 cubic yard

Rotten or ammonia odor

	Too many green materials
	Too much moisture
	Food remains on top of pile

	Mix in brown materials
	Turn the pile to aerate
	Mix in wood ash to absorb odor
	Cover pile from rain and snow

Flies and pests

Exposed food scraps

	Bury food waste
	Turn pile to increase temperature
	Do not add meat or fatty foods
	Cover pile

Solid Waste Management
East Complex - 2300 E. Grand River Ave., Suite 105 Howell, MI 48843
Phone 517.545.9609 FAX 517.545.9658

email: solidwaste@co.livingston.mi.us

Trouble Shooting Guide