Residents can learn how to reduce the amount of waste they produce by attending Pierce County’s composting classes this spring. One class focuses on yard waste, and the other on food waste.

“These classes are a great way to learn about the two kinds of composting you can do at home,” said Mary Coleman, Pierce County Public Works and Utilities environmental educator. “The classes have something to offer whether you are a beginner or have been composting for years.”

Yard waste composting

In the yard waste class, students will learn how to choose a bin, where to put it and how to maintain a healthy compost pile.

“By adding compost to your garden and landscaping, you can improve soil quality and eliminate the need for costly chemical fertilizers,” Coleman said.

Food waste composting

The food waste class shows how composting with red worms reduces the amount of kitchen waste a family sends to the landfill. Food waste composting is a great solution for people who live in apartments or have small yards. Compost produced by worms can be added to potted plants and small landscaped areas.

“Food makes up a third of the waste going to the landfill,” said Coleman. “One of the easiest and most economical ways to reduce our overall waste is for residents to compost their food waste at home.”

Food waste class attendees can purchase a $30 starter kit that includes a bin and worms.

Class information

The classes are taught by environmental educators from Pierce County Public Works and Utilities.

Two classes will be held in March at Washington State University-Puyallup, located at 2607 W Pioneer in Puyallup. Students can register at www.piercecountywa.org/compost.

•     March 13: 6 to 8 p.m., Yard Waste, Free

•     March 27: 6 to 8 p.m., Food Waste, Free or $30 for starter kit

Classes will also be offered at the Tacoma Community College (TCC)-Gig Harbor Campus as part of the college’s continuing education program. The campus is located at 3993 Hunt St. NW in Gig Harbor. Students should register through TCC by calling (253) 460-2424.

•     April 12: 10 a.m. to noon, Yard Waste, $15 TCC registration fee

•     May 10: 10 a.m. to noon, Food Waste, $15 TCC registration fee or $45 for class and starter kit