“One acre composted is worth acres three.

At harvest thy barns shall declare it to thee”

-- Thomas Tusser, 1557

Composting is an integral part of the total management of the solid waste stream. It has the potential to greatly reduce the amount of organic wastes headed to landfills for disposal. Composting is a natural and beneficial process that converts organic matter into a soil-like material that is excellent for use as a amendment or organic fertilizer. Compost is good soil conditioner and can be used in landscape applications to improve crop production and to control erosion. The benefits of compost are derived from its high organic matter content, which increases water holding capacity and improves soil structure.  The balanced microbial communities found in compost help suppress disease organisms and increases the availability of nutrients to plants. Using compost decreases the need for watering and application of fungicide and fertilizer. It is also effective at limiting erosion, and as a reused resource creates a value added product to enhance plant growth.

Annual Master Composter Class
This is a great course for residents interested in effectively composting on their own property. The program is usually held on five consecutive Tuesday evenings starting in May and running through June, at the Fenner Nature Center in Lansing. The cost for the class and all materials is $15. Registrations are handled by the Ingham County MSU Extension office in Mason. Contact them at 517-676-7207 or by email cvernon@ingham.org