On The Edges--Nixa

by Diane Rarick

The Nixa Recycling Center is now making compost from yard waste and sludge from the wastewater treatment plant. Using the sludge to make garden compost will greatly reduce the need to spread wastewater sludge on farm fields and reduces the amount of phosphorus entering the area's waterways.

Phosphorus causes excessive algae growth, producing water that is murky and smelly.

City residents will be able to get free compost in several months, according to City Manager Mike MacPherson.