In an effort to enhance Pennsylvania’s recycling efforts the Department of Environmental Protection in partnership with Penn State Extension County offices are offering backyard compost bins to Pennsylvania residents. Residents that attend a training session conducted by their participating Penn State county extension office will be eligible for a backyard compost bin.

According to EPA, a person generates an average of approximately 1.35 pounds of organic or compostable waste per day. That equals almost 500 pounds per person every year! This waste can be composted at home and made into a compost or humus material that can be used in your gardens and flowerbeds. Using compost on your gardens returns organic material back into the natural cycle and promotes a healthy soil ecosystem.

Backyard composting is an effective way of recycling organic wastes such as leaves, grass and food scraps that are generated at home and usually put out to the curb for disposal. Composting at home is easy and helps to keep waste out of our landfills. Penn State Extension has developed a training program for the homeowner that will help you understand the composting process, troubleshoot problems and successfully compost at home. You can also learn how to make your own compost bin using wooden pallets or scrap wire.

You can find additional information at Compost - It's Mulch Better