To achieve extreme soil fertility I use what I call a nutrient reservoir. This involves digging a hole 2 to 3 feet deep. The only other things needed are an insulated cover and a ring to keep the soil around the perimeter from slumping into the hole. The top third of a metal garbage can is a nice size. The lid can be used to cast multiple concrete covers if one cares to make more rings with the remainder of the can. Otherwise, the bottom two thirds can be used to store the topsoil and ashes that go back into the hole as it gets filled with organic refuse.

To set up the reservoir, dig the hole so that the ring fits neatly into it with the top at or slightly above grade. Glue 2 inches of polystyrene foam onto the bottom of the concrete lid with foam and panel adhesive. Foam should fit inside the can, of course.

After set up, one can insert all manner of organic waste generated by a household into the reservoir. This includes kitchen waste (including spoiled leftovers, chicken bones, egg shells), yard waste (including leaves, twigs, weeds, pine cones, etc.), crop residue, animal and human feces, human urine, fish guts, road kill, paper, cardboard – whatever soil microbes can feed on. Add a few cups of topsoil and (if available) ashes each day. When the hole gets full, cover with a few inches of topsoil and wait a year before planting anything on that spot.

The mixture of organic material will subside as the earthworms, beetles, and soil microbiota feed. In the country, this system can eliminate the need for a drain field. In a municipality, it reduces water usage. In fact, water from showering, washing dishes, preparing food, and washing clothes can be diverted to irrigate the yard and garden.

Over the years, I’ve cone to realize that being wasteful of organic resources, by disposing of them in the customary ways, adds nothing to the quality of our lives except perhaps convenience. But the price of convenience, in terms of environmental degradation, is beyond comprehension. So rather than drive to the gym to get some exercise, dig a few holes, chop up some tree limbs, collect waste material, make some compost. Try extreme gardening.