So it's getting toward the end of summer and I have a couple Hardy Chicago plants left to plant.  I'm experimenting with planting locations and tonight saw a potential location in my parent's compost bin (in one of the corners).  It's a bit shielded from the north/northwest winds and I'm thinking the heat generated by the compost (even during winter) might provide a few degrees of cold protection.

The only thing I can see as a problem is when you plant them in that rich compost they will probably put on some heavy growth late in the season.

I read an article last month, and for the life of cannot remember where I read it, but it tells the story of a boy who grew up with figs on the family property. One of the fig trees was at the center of the family compost heap.  People had said a fig would NEVER grow there, never put out fruit.  Well, it was the best producing tree on the property. 
   So, I say go for it, but perhaps wait until the Spring to plant it so that you do not risk the flush of growth that Jim mentions.

Keep us posted on how it goes!

What might work is to wait untill they are dorment but before the ground freezes plant them in the compost bin and cover them.
Then in spring they should be rooted in and they will take off.
Good luck with them

I found this article because I heard that active compost piles can reach high temperatures so that might be a problem.  http://whatcom.wsu.edu/ag/compost/fundamentals/needs_temperature.htm

Lets see a picture Tim. Are you planning on planting it in manure and leaves and scraps or is it close to finished compost with soil underneath?