Participants in the Master Composter Recycler training course learn how to build a lasagna garden out of compost in their backyard.
People interested in composting and recycling have an opportunity to become a Master Composter Recycler by attending a free 10-week training session.
Although 38 people have already signed up for 2019 MCR training, program coordinator Pete DuBois said applications are still being accepted as of Dec. 19.
“Over the years, our Master Composter Recycler volunteers have provided extraordinary service to the community,” DuBois said. “They exemplify environment stewardship in diverse and remarkable ways.”
These courses teach people about backyard composting, vermicomposting, recycling, sustainable living, green cleaning and more. Participants then share what they learn with the Clark County community. According to DuBois, Master Composter Recyclers “pay back” their training with at least 30 community service hours. They represent the program at community events such as fairs and farmers markets; teach and host workshops and lectures; grow red worms for worm shops; maintain compost demonstration sites and share their knowledge with neighbors and community groups.
“These people are not coming, putting in their 30 hours and just walking away. They’re getting to know their classmates. There’s a lot of knowledge transferring,” DuBois said. “We’re all about creating a community. If the community knew how to compost, we’d be a lot more resilient by turning our trash into treasure.”
Participants who complete the course receive a certificate. DuBois encourages those graduates to attend the program’s monthly meetings to continue to gain knowledge and tools for the future.
“We are hopefully giving folks those starter tools and how to use them,” he said. “I hope people graduate and continue to learn and get better tools.”
