Using STA Certified Compost – Directions for Use and Specifications: State Department of Transportation (DOT) Specifications
Specifying STA Certified Compost
DOTs across the country have shown their confidence in the efficacy of the Seal of Testing Assurance program’s STA Certified Compost products by requiring its use on projects under their jurisdiction.
The US Composting Council’s Seal of Testing Assurance Program "STA" is a compost testing, labeling and information disclosure program designed to give you the information you need to get the maximum benefit from the use of compost.
The program was created in 2000 and its method of testing and certifying compost is considered a gold standard by compost research scientists. It is the only compost testing program currently available that gives this level of labeling and information disclosure.
Landscape architect, engineer, and Department of Transportation's shared specifications will help you get started in specifying STA Certified Compost for your project. For ease of assuring compliance, many Department of Transportations have customized lab Compost Technical Data Sheets (CTDS) through the STA Certified Compost program that show whether each parameter tested meets the specifications for that state DOT's compost use.
Using STA Certified Compost
Quality is in the eye of the consumer: Compost use and selection decisions consider many factors, and therefore are not one-size-fits-all. The Seal of Testing Assurance (STA) Program helps you make the best decision for your application by providing the 3 C’s:
Clarity –
Similar to a nutrition label, the STA Program’s Compost Technical Data Sheet (CTDS) includes test results, a list of ingredients, and recommended directions for use.
Consistency –
The STA Program provides checks and balances within the STA Lab and Participant network to ensure proficiency and consistency with testing procedures and compliance, providing apples to apples comparisons of compost properties.
Confidence –
Similar to trusting a vehicle history report when purchasing a vehicle, the STA’s CTDS report provides consumers with confidence and knowledge of what is in the compost and how it was produced.