Master Composter Training

"Most people don't realize that we are facing a crisis with capacity at our state landfill - we are literally running out of room." said Sejal Lanterman, coordinator of the URI Master Composter training.. "We can all take action to address this problem. About 25-30 percent of the waste created in the home and garden is compostable material. Backyard composting is cheaper for society, better for the environment and great for the garden. So we're looking to train interested individuals to help us spread the word and get the job done."

Training

The Master Composter program trains volunteers to compost and to become advocates for composting and recycling within their local community and around the state. To earn the title " URI Master Composter," participants in the program attend a 16 hour course and fulfill a volunteer commitment of at least 30 hours.

The program offers a number of opportunities for individuals to become more active in their community, to tour various composting facilities within the state (including the Rhode Island Central Landfill), and to learn practical composting skills through hands-on activities and listening to the experiences of knowledgeable composters.

Class topics include:

Introduction to the Master Composter Program
Fundamentals of Composting
What's Now, What's Next in RI Recycling
Vermicomposting
Microbes: The Power Behind Compost and Biogas
The Science & History of Composting

Field trips include:

Earth Care Farm, Charlestown, RI
RI Resource Recovery Corp., Johnston, RI
Southside Community Landtrust, Providence, RI
The Worm Ladies of Charlestown, RI

Who should become involved?

Any individual, from a beginner to an experienced composter, who has an interest in learning more about composting or recycling and is passionate about spreading this knowledge to the public.

What do you gain?

Practical composting skills from URI faculty and staff, experienced composters and hands-on activities
The knowledge and resources to create a valuable soil amendment
Admission to impressive composting & recycling facilities
Connections with other interesting and passionate individuals
The ability to make a difference in your community!

The URI Master Composter training normally takes place in the spring and fall. Sign up for our emails, join the conversation on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to stay connected to the next training session or year-round compost workshops.