Learn How to Compost in Free Class Offered by Waste Resources Department
October 2, 2024
The Riverside County Department of Waste Resources will be hosting a free Backyard Composting, Vermicomposting, and Make Your Own Worm Bin workshop on Saturday, October 5 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Interested residents will learn how to transform organic materials, like yard trimming and produce waste, into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner.
The free Backyard Composting class and demonstration begins at 9 a.m. at the Moreno Valley department headquarters (14310 Frederick Street, 92553). Master Composters with years of experience will explain how millions of microbes digest organic material to produce compost, which promotes healthy gardens, lawns, and house plants, while reducing the amount of green material that goes to the landfill.
The Vermicomposting and Make Your Own Worm Bin workshop will begin at 10:00 a.m., immediately following the composting class. Vermicomposting is the process of using worms to break down food waste. The worms produce worm castings and worm “tea,” both of which are very beneficial for plants.
Adult county residents can purchase a worm bin kit or make their own. Staff and volunteer master composters will teach participants how to build their own worm bin, harvest castings, and care for worms. Tools will be provided, but participants must bring their own materials (click here for a list of required materials). Aspiring vermicomposters who build a bin will receive worms for free to jumpstart their bin.
Pre-assembled worm bins will be available for purchase for $35 (limit one per household). Low-cost compost bins are available for $18 (limit three per household). Bins can be pre-purchased using Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or by calling the department at (951) 486-3200 during normal business hours. Bins can also be purchased at the class using cash or credit card.
The workshop will be held outdoors in the Resource Garden and includes hands-on exercises – make sure to dress appropriately.
The Waste Resources Department offers a variety of FREE environmental education classes related to waste reduction and sustainability. These programs are offered to increase awareness of waste reduction and advantages of recycling to help preserve valuable space in county landfills.
For more information, call (951) 486-3200, visit www.rcwaste.org/composting/how or email [email protected].
