Danger of Jumping Worms

This week the team learned about the dangers of jumping worms.  Whereas earthworms are 'nature's little recyclers' and are of great benefit to the composting process, jumping worms pose a threat.  They consume organic matter degrading the compost.  While avoiding the introduction of jumping worms to our site may prove tricky, the team learned that hot composting can help us get rid of the threat.  Compost kept at 105 degrees or higher for 3+ days will kill off any jumping worms.  The need for a compost thermometer is growing!  Furthermore, according to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, making ones own compost helps in preventing the introduction of these invasive worms.