The Organic Degradation Research and Analytical Laboratory (ODRAL)

Increased national and state focus in recent years has been placed on water quality, loss of soil fertility and increased sedimentation and and loss of wetlands and aquatic ecosystems.  Improper management of manure and other organic residues have been identified as non-point sources of pollution requiring development of alternative uses, and loss of soil organic matter has been shown to increase soil erodability.  Thus, a growing interest in using organic byproducts for crop and ornamental production, organic gardening, erosion control, and landscaping have increased the demand for materials suitable for the various end uses.  Suitability is determined through interpretation of the proper quality analytical results.   

The ODRAL has been serving the organic waste generators and composting industry nationwide for six years, and is the only laboratory in Louisiana dedicated to analysis of composts and organic byproducts used as soil amendments using the standardized TMECCs.  The emphasis of our analytical methods and expertise is on beneficial use of organic wastes for the betterment of our environment.