Arenac Conservation District
(989) 846-4565 ext. 5
Arenac Conservation District
(989) 846-4565 ext. 5

Organic materials (yard scraps, food waste, animal manure, etc.) make up more than 50% of municipal waste in Michigan. That's approximately 8 MILLION TONS of garbage taking up space in landfills. Composting is an easy, cost-effective way to take those organics out of landfills and put them into the soil.
Composting yard waste and kitchen scraps saves space in landfills and creates nutrient-rich amendments that improve the health of your soil. Mixing compost into your soil adds vital nutrients to your lawn or garden, decreases the need for fertilizers, filters water, and even decreases the risk of flooding!

The Michigan Master Composter is an educational educational course designed for individuals, community gardens, school gardens, urban farms, small restaraunts, and anyone interested in learning about the composting methods and the science of decomposition. This course , which was designed by the Michigan Recycling Colaition, provides participants with the tools, manuals, hands-on activities, and confidence to become local champions of composting. Our goal is to help you understand the composting process and reduce the organic waste burden in landfills.
The Master Composter course takes a deep dive into soil science, troubleshooting backyard composting problems, setting up a new system, the benefits of diversion of organics from landfills, healthy ecosystems and more. Master Composters are encouraged to contribute to community composting outreach programs. Engaged Master Composter course away as lifelong community advocates of composting.

Master Composter students must attend all 5 instructional sessions and pass a final certification exam to receive cetification through the Michigan Recycling Coalition.
Certified Master Composters are also required to fullfill at least 10 hours of volunteer work in the year folowing certification.
We encourage Master Composters to share their knowledge of composting with the world. Volunteering is a great way to apply what you learned, and spread your passion for compost to your local community.
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI
Outlines the history of composting, the benefits of composting, and waste management laws in Michigan. Learn about the science and methods o...
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
Learn the basic methods for composting including hot and cold composting techniques, aerobic vs. anaerobic decomposition, and how to choose ...
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
5 Hearts Earthworm Farm 10161 S. Beyer Rd. Birch Run MI 48415
Field Trip to 5 Hearts Earthworm Farm. Learn methods, maintanece and troubleshooting for your worm bin.
Cost to Attend: $5
5 Hearts Earthworm Farm 10161 S. Beyer Rd. Birch Run MI 48415
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
Explore how compost can be used to help your soil and the many benefits of compost. Build your knowledge of soil, nutrients, fertilization, ...
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
The final step to becoming a certified Master Composter!
Students will take their final exams and receive a brief overview of volunteer requ...
WELL Outreach Center 4215 Airpark Drive Standish MI 48658
Some Useful Plants to add (pdf)
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