Livestock Mortality Composting

Natural rendering can be a practical and economical alternative for disposing whole animal carcasses. In partnership with the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment Solid Waste Program, we have some resources for livestock owners needing options in the event of livestock mortality.

Livestock mortality composting should be done with input from a certified professional. In Johnson County, Craig Wood has been trained to guide residents through the process.

In addition to a certified composting facilitator, avoiding sensitive environment areas, maintaining a buffer to protect water sources, access to materials, and following set backs and buffer parameters are essential to livestock mortality composting.

For more information on the process, please contact Craig Wood, Craig.Wood@jocogov.org, Solid Waste Management Coordinator.

Resources

Cornell Waste Management Institute

Missouri Department of Natural Resources Animal Emergency Procedures

Missouri Extension Animal Mortality Management Options

USDA Composting Livestock

Contact Us

Juju Wellemeyer
Natural Resources and Mid/Small Scale Agriculture Agent juju.Wellemeyer@jocogov.org