Community gardeners learn about reducing waste, creating compost

Photo credit Nolan Hull. As members of the Copeland Garden in Colby wrap up their first growing season, Sharing the Bounty Master Gardner Duane Cheney volunteered his time to teach members how to use a 3-part compost bin donated by the families of Delin Thompson and Nichole Olsen.

Master Gardner Duane Cheney of Sharing the Bounty in Colby, gave a free demonstration to Copeland Garden members Saturday, Sept. 21.

With the assistance of Copeland Garden Coordinator Nolan Hull, Cheney taught the group how to reduce household food waste for use in the garden and then how to properly layer organic materials for a healthy, balanced compost. An alternative to chemical fertilizers, Cheney talked about the importance of balancing carbon-rich material with nitrogen-rich debris such as grass clippings. Instructions were also given on how to turn the pile and maximize use of the triple compost bin that was donated to the Copeland Garden by the families of garden members Delin Thompson and Nichole Olsen.

Photo credit Christina Beringer. Copeland Garden volunteer coordinator Nolan Hull (left) takes direction from Duane Cheney of Sharing the Bounty as he sprays the compost pile with water.

The free workshop was hosted by LiveWell Northwest Kansas, a nonprofit organization located in Colby, working to improve all aspects of health and the early childhood system of northwest Kansas. To register for a garden or learn about other upcoming events, visit www.livewellnwk.org. 

Photo credit Christina Beringer. From left: Master Gardner Duane Cheney and members Delin Thompson and Nichole Olsen watch as Nolan Hull tests his compost pile to ensure it has retained the the right amount of moisture, which aids in decomposition.