USCC STA Compost Text plus TX Dot Compost Test
STA Certified Compost Plus TxDOT Testing
Our STA Certified Compost Plus TxDOT Testing package is specifically designed for compost manufacturers seeking compliance with both the US Composting Council (USCC) STA Program and Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) specifications. This package provides the rigorous testing required to meet these industry standards, ensuring your compost meets the needs of a wide range of applications, from soil amendments to erosion control.
What is STA Certified Compost?
Compost is defined as the product of controlled aerobic, biological decomposition of biodegradable materials. This process reduces pathogens and weed seed viability (per EPA 40 CFR 503 standards) and stabilizes carbon to benefit plant growth. STA Certified Compost is screened for optimal particle size, making it ideal for soil incorporation and plant health improvement.
TxDOT-Specific Testing
TxDOT has additional specifications for compost used in state-approved projects. This package ensures compliance with their unique requirements by including all STA tests and additional parameters specific to TxDOT guidelines. Beside each test result, TxDOT specifications are provided to verify compliance.
Related and Allowable Products:
The STA Program supports various compost-related products, including:
- Vermicompost/Worm Castings: Pre-composted feedstocks meeting EPA 40 CFR 503 standards.
- Digested Solids: Anaerobically digested materials composted post-digestion.
- Composted Mulch: Coarser compost for surface applications.
- Erosion Control Compost: Specialized compost for erosion control blankets, berms, and socks.
- Soil Remediation/Stormwater Management Compost: Used in environmental and stormwater applications.
For more details, visit the STA Program Requirements page.
Why Frequent Testing Matters:
Regular testing is critical to ensure product quality and compliance:
- Monthly Testing: For manufacturers producing over 17,501 wet tons/year.
- Bi-Monthly Testing: For manufacturers producing 6,201 to 17,500 wet tons/year.
- Quarterly Testing: For manufacturers producing under 6,200 wet tons/year.
Parameters Tested:
Our testing package includes:
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|---|---|---|---|
| Moisture | % Organic Matter | Total Nitrogen | Nitrate Nitrogen |
| Total Phosphorus | Total Potassium | Total Calcium | Total Magnesium |
| Total Sodium | Total Iron | Total Copper, | Total Manganese |
| Total Zinc | Sulfate as SO4 | Boron | Chloride |
| Ammonia (NH4-N) | pH | C:N | Germination |
| Carbon Dioxide Evolution | Particle Size | Fecal Coliform | Total Coliform |
| Conductivity |
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| Heavy Metals: | Lead | Molybdenum | Zinc |
| Cadmium | Copper | Selenium | Arsenic |
| Mercury | Nickel | Chromium |
Pathogen Testing:
- Fecal Coliform:< 1000 MPN/gram of dry compost.
- Salmonella:< 3 MPN/4 grams of dry compost (both tests required in California).
Sample Submission Guidelines:
- Sample Size Required: Two 1-gallon Ziploc bags.
- Shipping Instructions: Ship samples overnight in an insulated container with ice packs.
Additional Information:
- Turnaround Time: 14 business days.
- Comprehensive Results: Includes detailed analysis and compliance data for both STA and TxDOT standards.
Why Choose This Test?
This testing package ensures that your compost meets the highest industry standards, providing confidence in its quality and suitability for both STA certification and TxDOT-approved projects. Whether you're targeting soil amendments, erosion control, or storm water management applications, this test provides the data you need to market your compost effectively.
Order your STA Certified Compost Plus TxDOT Testing package today and set your product apart in the marketplace!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are your business hours?
Our office is open Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. We do close for major holidays, so we recommend ordering your testing and sending your sample early if a holiday is coming up. You can always reach us by email. Just send us a message at info@tpslab.com
- When will I get my results?
We understand that you need your results as soon as possible. That is why we make sure to begin processing your samples as soon as they arrive at our laboratory. When the results are ready, we will email them to the email address you provided on your submittal form. The list below will give you an idea of our usual turnaround times.
Soil Tests: 5-7 Business days
Water Tests: 5 - 7 Business days
Plants Tests: 24 - 48 Hours
Compost Tests: 7 - 14 Business days
Fertilizer Tests: 3 - 5 Business days
Heavy Metals Test: 7 - 14 Business days
We offer a rush option for an additional 50% of the testing cost, but we would encourage you to give yourself time to test before you get to a point where a rush is needed.
