Trins: Recently we had a goat...

...poop out deliver (spouse edit) two more goats.

Thanks Trins, that’s a great segue into another recent challenge. I almost decided against posting this but concluded that it may be useful info if others find themselves in a similar situation.

Wastewater was backing up into the toilets.  Assuming the worst, I searched for alternative solutions until we could identify the problem.  Digging holes in the woods (especially in the cold) didn’t seem reasonable so I researched composting options and discovered that most are expensive (~1k +) and some required power. Eventually I learned that the problem is not difficult to resolve.

The solution is access to lots of carbon, or sawdust.  Sawdust is placed in the bottom and added after every use (enough so that only sawdust is ever seen inside the bucket on the right). The carbon binds with nitrogen and reduces or eliminates odors. Over time there is additional bacterial breakdown of solids and possibly noticeable evaporation but eventually the bucket fills and can be emptied into a compost pile. As long as one isn’t on synthetic medications the waste turns into excellent odorless and nutrient rich topsoil after one year. Sounds strange but I learned that this isn’t that unusual of a practice.

Eventually I found the problem. A filter that is located before the drain field was clogged. I showed Trins how to remove, clean and re-install the filter so she can fix this problem the next time it happens.

Back to the goats, if you would like to "be there" right after new goats show up watch this video. As a bonus it includes a cameo appearance by Alfalfa from the Little Rascals.