Penn State Cooperative Extension, the Butler County Department of Recycling and Waste Management, and the state Department of Environmental Protection are once again teaming up to offer composting workshops and free backyard composting bins to Butler County residents.

Why compost? Composting is the natural decomposition of organic matter. The process creates a material that is, in turn, used to condition the soil. By diverting yard and other organic household wastes from landfills, we preserve landfill space, conserve natural resources, and when compost is used in gardens, flower beds, and on lawns we save money, time and effort.

These backyard composting classes are being offered to all Butler County residents with an interest in composting and gardening, recycling yard and household organic wastes, and reducing the amount of these wastes entering landfills. Our goal is to begin composting and to provide assistance to those who are already composting.

Program participants will receive one free composting bin per household after completion of the workshop. In addition, participants will receive educational materials that will help them in their composting efforts.

The scheduled workshop sessions will be held in the lower level meeting room of the Butler County Cooperative Extension Office, located in building 10 on the grounds of Sunnyview Home in Butler.

Evening sessions have been scheduled for May 17, May 21 and May 22. The sessions will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Registration is required. Space is limited to 25 participants per session. Registrants should indicate their first and second choice of dates. These will be the only opportunities for county residents to receive a composting bin as part of the current program.

Registrations are being accepted through the Butler County Extension Office. Phone 724-287-4761. Registrations will be accepted by phone by phone at 724-287-4761, Ext. 222, or e-mail ButlerExt@psu.edu with your name, address, phone, and choice of dates.

This material is submitted by Donna Zang, Extension director.