Abstract: A method for removing contaminants from water involves filtering the water through a filtering apparatus which includes a porous media container having an inner chamber which is suitably configured so that water can pass through the chamber and processed straw retained within and suitably within the chamber such that when water passes through the chamber, it also passes through the straw. A method is provided for enhancing the composting (470) of organic matter, e.g., sludge, including the steps of adding processed straw to a compost mixture and digesting said mixture.