One Man's Garbage is Another Man's Garden

Think twice before you throw your food in the trash. You have an alternative, composting. For those who live on campus and have a meal plan composting is easy. The dining hall has an area to put food scraps and napkins into for composting. For the students who live off campus composting seems to be more difficult—especially for those living in apartments. But it is not as difficult as it seems. Composting bins are available for $40.00 from the City of Durango and San Juan Resource Conservation and Development. Contact information is available at the official city website, http://www.durangogov.org/. There are many types of composting bins. Holding bins are highly recommended for apartments. They can be placed on apartment balconies. You can use your compost for a balcony garden or for houseplants. If you are interested in constructing your own composting bin and have limited space here is how. The following materials are needed: a power drill or a hammer and a nail, a plastic storage bin, an extra lid for the storage bin, green composting matter such as: grass, vegetable peels, fruits, coffee grounds, and teabags, and brown composting matter such as: cardboard, newspaper, and wood shavings. Don’t compost meat, dairy, or starchy food. First, drill or hammer small holes in the plastic storage bin. Place a lid on the bottom of the storage bin. Then add alternating layers of green and brown matter into the bin. Add water for moisture. If the mixture becomes too moist or begins to smell add additional brown matter. Turn your mixture at least twice a week. Harvest your compost by running it through a sifter. Creating a compost bin is not only a great way to reduce your waste, but great for your plants as well. You can use your compost for a balcony garden or for houseplants—reduce, reuse and enjoy.

Cordia Perez