Always wanted to compost but never knew exactly how it worked? Wish you could compost but think your home doesn't have space for it? Ever hear about worm composting and wondered how you could do that? You are in luck; the County of Santa Barbara offers free backyard composting workshops to answer these questions and more.

Workshops have been completed in the Santa Barbara, Santa Maria Valley and Santa Ynez Valley.

What is taught?

Get introduced to what composting is and how it happens. Find out about the different methods of composting, including hot aerobic composting and worm composting. Learn what materials to compost, which to avoid, and how to use your finished compost. Bring your questions, stories and experiences, and the County’s composting specialist will help you with your concerns.

“Compostable materials are up to 40% of what is thrown away at home every day” says Jeff Simeon, backyard composting specialist at the County. “Composting is a natural process that breaks down organic waste and transforms it into a valuable nutrient-rich soil amendment, perfect for gardens, lawns and house plants. It’s nature’s way of recycling.”

The County of Santa Barbara’s Public Works Department, Resource Recovery and Waste Management Division holds this event and sells backyard composting bins at a discount to encourage this cost-effective, environmentally beneficially way to manage organic waste.

More details about the workshops, discounted composting bins and other ways to reduce your waste are available at LessIsMore.org/compost or call (805) 882-3618.