Test Dormant Compost Pile Temperature

What happens here

The presenter demonstrates using the compost thermometer by inserting it into the first compost pile, which has a peaked shape. He notes that the thermometer's needle rises slowly, eventually settling at around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating that this pile is not actively composting. He attributes this dormancy to the pile's shape, which causes moisture to run off, and suggests that turning the pile and adding more moisture would reactivate it.

Goal: Insert the compost thermometer into the first pile and observe its slow temperature rise to approximately 80 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating a dormant state, likely due to insufficient moisture retention from its peaked shape.