The Lucas Soil and Water Conservation District (Lucas SWCD) will host a vermicomposting 101 workshop on Thursday, October 19, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at 3350 Hill Avenue, Suite K, Toledo.
Vermicomposting, otherwise known as worm composting, uses worms and other microorganisms to help accelerate the decomposition of food waste and convert organic materials into a valuable soil amendment full of nutrients to be used in the garden.
The workshop is designed for people who want to learn more and start vermicomposting at home. Participants will leave with a vermicomposting bin that they helped to make, plus a pack of starter worms and resources.
Cost is $55 and includes all materials and resources.
By putting food waste and yard waste in a compost bin instead of the garbage bin, residents are reducing the amount of material entering the landfill. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 24 percent of daily municipal waste entering landfills is food waste.
Composting also saves money because it creates valuable fertilizer for gardens that consumers might otherwise be buying from the store.
Lastly, compost, or the byproduct of this process, is high in nutrients and organic matter, both of which are important components to having a healthy, sustainable garden.
The workshop does include the use of power tools, so participants should be 18 years of age or older.
To learn more and to register, visit LucasSWCD.org/ vermicomposting. Space is limited.
