Organic material makes up about 58 percent of what Denver residents send to the landfill every year. These items can be composted, which is the controlled decomposition of organic materials by microorganisms. This process results in compost, a crumbly, earthy-smelling, nutrient-rich, soil-like material.  Composting is good for your yard and garden, good for the environment, easy to do and fun!  Compost can retain 100% of its weight in water and is an important component of gardening in a drought. 

The City and County of Denver’s compost collection pilot program was so successful that it will continue in 2011 as a fee-based service program. The base payment for this service is $29.25 per quarter (3 months). Paying participants in the Denver Composts program receive a 65-gallon green composting cart and weekly collection. Organic material such as yard debris, food and soiled paper are all accepted in the program.

To Sign up for a free “Learn to Compost” class go online to  www.dug.org/compost or call 720-865-6810