Composting of Animal Carcasses Removed from Roads: A Pilot Study of Vessel Composting

About the project

Many Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) maintenance areas need viable, environmentally compliant and cost-effective strategies for managing the removal and disposal of animal carcasses found on roads. This study will evaluate two vessel composting methods to determine if they are useful and feasible carcass-management options for VDOT. The research team will work closely with select VDOT maintenance areas in constructing and operating composting sites that meet state environmental requirements; monitor and document the composting processes; and evaluate the costs and benefits of both methods. The final report for the study will include detailed guidelines for composting animal carcasses to refine the process and increase implementation prospects throughout VDOT maintenance areas.

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