County of Marin - News Releases - Backyard Composting Workshops

For Immediate Release
March 17, 2016

Backyard Composting Classes Start in April

Hands-on sessions being offered for Marin residents this spring in Novato

San Rafael, CA Zero Waste Marin is offering another series of backyard composting classes for Marin County residents who are considering a soil amendment system at their home.

Hands holding dirt with compost ingredients beneath themComposting classes are April 9, May 7, and June 4.
The classes are April 9, May 7, and June 4 in Novato and cost $10. From 10 a.m. to noon, participants will be taught several composting methods to create a system that helps divert waste from disposal sites.

“These classes offer the opportunity to not only reduce your garbage service and save money on your bill,” said Steve Devine, Zero Waste Program Manager, “but promote fertile soil in your garden for a healthier environment.”

The classroom portion of the course will cover the basic science behind composting and the soil food web, and the hands-on element will apply that knowledge to the participants’ needs. After completing the course, there will be an option to purchase a SoilSaver Composting Bin or Wriggly Ranch Worm Bin for $25.

Zero Waste Marin, also known as the Marin County Hazardous and Solid Waste Management Joint Powers Authority, was created in 2006 when community members began to wonder if a 100 percent sustainable lifestyle was possible. That led to the creation of the Zero Waste Marin by 2025 initiative. Residents are challenged to single out items that generate the most waste in our landfills and help Marin advance a step closer to eliminating waste by 2025. The County of Marin is a member of Zero Waste Marin, and the Waste Management Division of the County Department of Public Works provides staff to the joint powers authority.

The classes will be at the Green Gage Farm, 489 Gage Lane, Novato. Register and learn more at www.zerowastemarin.org/compost.

Contact:

Steve Devine
Program Manager
Department of Public Works

3501 Civic Center Drive
Suite 304
San Rafael, CA 94913
(415) 473-2711
CRS Dial 711
Email: Steve Devine
DPW Website