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In addition to the sessions, trainees do a "practical internship" that provides many opportunities to gain outreach experience by working alongside veteran volunteers. Training is capped off by our annual compost fair in May. Graduates then go on to work on projects of their choosing.
Master composters are an enthusiastic group of volunteers trained to educate the public about composting. Thanks to their efforts and the support of the Tompkins County Solid Waste Management Division, our county boasts some of the highest composting rates in this part of the country. This, along with other county programs and financial incentives to reduce, reuse, and recycle, results in less "trash" being sent to our landfills. In the end, we all save money while doing our part to lessen our impact on the environment.
The flip side of reducing waste is that we have more compostable material on our hands. Despite what you may hear, backyard composting -- when practiced correctly -- does not produce odors or attract unwanted pests. There are even ways to compost indoors. The finished compost, when added to the land, improves the quality of our soil and ultimately helps our plants, gardens, and lawns thrive -- without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Master composters work on many levels to promote responsible composting practices. They conduct workshops, write educational articles, help manage demonstration sites, and speak to others interested in composting. Volunteers also gather informally to share meals, ideas, and friendship. One of our goals is to have fun while promoting sound ecological practices.
If you are interested in protecting the environment, improving gardens, reducing waste, and having fun with a lively group, then consider joining us!
For additional information and applications visit our website -- Compost Education Program, visit our office -- Tompkins County Cooperative Extension, 615 Willow Avenue, or contact our "Rotline" by phone (607-272-2292) or email (acm1@cornell.edu).
The deadline for applications for this year's training is Friday, February 4.
Details:
This deposit is returned to volunteers once they give 40 hours back to the community. In that way, the program is free. (Note: no one will be turned away for financial constraints. Please speak with the program manager if the deposit would be a financial burden.)
The Compost Education Program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Tompkins County is funded by Tompkins County Solid Waste Management Division.
Adam Michaelides
Program Manager, Compost Education
Cornell Cooperative Extension
Contributed by Mark Darling
https://www.ithaca.edu/intercom/article.php/20050127083747516