Abstract: The apparatus for tilling soil provides a significant reduction in energy consumption. The apparatus includes one or more sweeps which are effective for subtilling the soil as it is moved therethrough. One or more tillers are provided ahead of the sweeps, sufficiently near the path of travel of the outermost ends or tips of the sweep blades so as to disturb or loosen the soil directly in the path of the ends of the blades. By positioning the tillers relative to the sweep tips in this manner, energy consumption may be significantly reduced in comparison to subtilling devices having coulters or other tillers positioned ahead of the center of the sweeps.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the disposal of biodegradable solid waste material such as as cellulosic material and paper. The apparatus includes a trench cutter for both cutting a trench in the soil and maintaining the trench open to facilitate subsequent deposit of both waste material and soil therein. Waste material to be disposed of is held in a receptacle, and is delivered into the open trench through a dispenser positioned rearward of the trench cutter. A backfiller is also provided on the apparatus for directing borrow soil removed by the trench cutter back into the trench together with the waste material. A mixer is provided rearward of the dispenser and backfiller for mixing the backfilled soil with the waste material within the trench, increasing contact of the waste material with soil microorganisms and moisture and thereby speeding decomposition.