Large Scale Composting Operation and the Effect of Land Application of Compost On Crop Growth and Performance in Northern Guam. Mohammad H. Golabi, Dinko Endale, Sheeka Tareyama, Clancy Iyekar, and Edwin Paulino. University of Guam, Mangilao, Guam.

In an ongoing experiment at the University of Guam’s experiment station, composted organic waste is being used as an alternative to synthetic fertilizers for soil nutrient supply.  Up to date results indicate that the composted organic wastes provide an excellent soil amendment and source of fertilizers to the low fertility soils of northern Guam.  The addition of organic waste also improves the water and nutrient holding capacity of the soil due to increased soil organic content that, in turn, enhances soil productivity and helps maintain agricultural sustainability in the island.  Up to date results have shown considerable improvement in soil quality indices and productivity following the application of compost.  In addition, some of the unique soil properties such as phosphate fixing capacity or aluminum toxicity that are common in Guam and other islands of the western Pacific may be corrected by implementing management strategies that include application of organic matter to improve the fertility status of these soils without the use of commercial fertilizers.  Environmental impact of land application of compost with regards to nitrogen and other contaminants leaching and groundwater quality is being presented in another paper.

Key words: Guam, Compost, soil fertility, agricultural sustainability