by A.B. Card and J.G. Davis1

The term static refers to a type of windrow composting that does not require mechanical turning with a bucket loader or other equipment.  That is, the windrow does not move.  It remains static instead of dynamic (referring to turning the windrow).  Static windrow composting can be divided into two types: 1) passively aerated; and 2) actively aerated.  This fact sheet describes the passively aerated windrow method.

What is Passively Aerated Windrow Composting? This technique involves the same process for setting up a windrow as described in fact sheet 1.225, Composting Horse Manure in Dynamic Windrows (i.e., mixing thoroughly, adding appropriate amounts of nitrogen if necessary, and watering). However, instead of building the windrow directly on the ground, a porous base material and perforated pipe aeration system must first be put in place.  Heat from the windrow draws air into the pile by convection, just like
heat from a fireplace flowing up a chimney pulls air from inside the house into the fireplace.

Downlaod full article:  PassiveWindrows.pdf (70.89 KB)