Residents can learn how to reduce the amount of waste they produce by attending Pierce County’s free composting classes this fall. Classes will be offered on yard waste and food waste.
In the yard waste class, participants will learn how to choose a bin, where to put it and how to maintain a healthy compost pile. Using compost in gardens and landscaping can help improve soil quality and eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers.
In Pierce County, food makes up a third of the waste going to the landfill. The food waste class will show how composting with red worms reduces the amount of kitchen waste a family sends to the landfill. Compost produced by worms can be added to potted plants and small landscaped areas.
Food waste class attendees have the option of purchasing a starter bin and worms for $30.
Yard Waste classes
- Nov. 2: 10 a.m. to noon, Washington State University – Puyallup, Victoria Room, 2606 W Pioneer Ave. in Puyallup
- Nov. 12: 6 to 8 p.m., Gig Harbor Civic Center, Room A, 3510 Grandview Street in Gig Harbor
Food Waste classes
- Oct. 29: 6 to 8 p.m., East Pierce Fire and Rescue, 18421 Veterans Memorial Drive E in Bonney Lake
- Nov. 16: 10 a.m. to noon, Lakewood Community Center, 9112 Lakewood Drive SW No. 121 in Lakewood
The classes are designed for teenagers and adults. Children ages 6 to 11 must be accompanied by an adult. Youth ages 12 to 17 must have parental permission. Pre-registration is required.
To register for a workshop, visit www.piercecountywa.org/compost or call (253) 798-4133. The classes are taught by environmental educators from Pierce County Public Works and Utilities.
