Holy Shit: Managing Manure to Save Mankind

Holy Shit: Managing Manure to Save Mankind examines humanity's relationship with animal and human waste throughout history. The book explores traditional agricultural practices and modern waste management systems, detailing how different cultures have handled manure. Author Gene Logsdon draws from his farming background and research to present methods for composting, storage, and application of manure in both small and large-scale operations. The text includes practical guidance on managing various types of animal waste, from chicken droppings to cow patties, while addressing environmental and health considerations. The book investigates the economic potential of manure as a resource, exploring its uses as fertilizer and fuel. Logsdon makes connections between waste management practices and broader issues of sustainability, soil health, and food production. This work challenges readers to reconsider common attitudes toward waste and recognize manure's vital role in ecological cycles. The book presents a compelling argument for integrating traditional knowledge with modern agricultural needs to address environmental challenges.

Readers describe this as an informative and often humorous take on manure management, written in an accessible style. Many note that Logsdon balances technical content with practical advice for both farmers and gardeners. Liked: - Clear explanations of composting methods - Personal anecdotes from Logsdon's farming experience - Historical context and cultural perspectives on manure - Practical applications for small-scale operations Disliked: - Some found the tone too casual for a serious subject - Several readers wanted more detailed scientific content - A few noted redundant information across chapters Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (165 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (89 reviews) Reader Quote: "Finally, someone talking sense about waste management without getting too technical or too preachy." - Amazon reviewer "The title catches attention but the content delivers real value for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture." - Goodreads reviewer

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🌱 Author Gene Logsdon was known as "The Contrary Farmer" and wrote over 25 books about sustainable agriculture, earning him a reputation as one of America's most influential advocates for small-scale farming. 💡 The book reveals that before chemical fertilizers became widespread in the 1950s, human waste was commonly collected and sold as fertilizer in many major cities, including London and Paris. 🌍 Japanese farmers historically paid more for human manure than for any other type of fertilizer, leading to a complex urban collection system that continued into the 20th century. 🚽 Modern flush toilets waste approximately 1.6 gallons of water per flush, with the average person flushing about 5 times per day—adding up to nearly 3,000 gallons per person annually. 🌿 One human produces enough waste annually to fertilize 4,000-5,000 square feet of cropland, roughly the size needed to grow a year's worth of food for one person.