The County of Santa Cruz offers free composting workshops throughout the year except during the summer, open to all residents.  Space is limited, so advance registration is required.  After you submit your request, you will be notified if you are accepted in the class.

Each Basic Composting Workshop will discuss the principles of composting kitchen and yard wastes using backyard bins and vermicomposting (worm composting) techniques.  You will learn how composting can improve your soil and enhance the health of your plants and vegetables.  Composting also reduces organic waste going to the landfill, thereby cutting greenhouse gas emissions and slowing climate change.  Workshops are led by trained Master Composters.

As social distancing guidelines, established to limit the spread of the Coronavirus, are easing, workshops through June 2025 will include in-person gatherings as well as virtual classes held by Zoom videoconference.  Masking is optional at in-person workshops, which are generally held outdoors.

Advanced workshops are offered periodically focusing on either vermicomposting or backyard composting.  These advanced workshops are open to people with at least some experience in the type of composting to be discussed.

Several of the local jurisdictions offer premiums or discounts on composting equipment to residents who complete a composting workshop.  A wealth of composting information and resources is available on the County's composting website at compostsantacruzcounty.org.