Composting is the ultimate in sustainable recycling.
Composting takes organic waste and turns it into a soil additive with the help of insects, worms, bacteria and fungi. It’s one of the easiest recycling activities that can be done entirely local. This kind of composting is referred to as a closed loop recycling initiative.
The Regional District believes in a greener community. That’s why they want to use compost to improve soil health by increasing organic matter, nutrients, aeration. Composting also decreases erosion, moisture loss, and the need for chemicals and fertilizers. After using Compost your soil deserves its own place on a super hero team, because it’s become SUPER POWERED!
High Grade Compost
The Regional District produces NorGrow, a Class A compost that meets the Provincial Organic Matter Recycling Regulation.
First, yard waste is ground down, and then laid out in windrows. Once a week the windrows are turned, and for seven weeks they’re monitored for temperature and moisture. After the active compost cycle has worked its magic, samples are taken for analysis. Compost which meets the provincial criteria is then ready for sale.
Your Own Compost and Super Soil
Even more convenient for residents, the Regional District encourages backyard composting! They will help you get started through education and the sale of Compost Bins. You can cut down on the waste produced in your yard and, and have access to your own compost just outside the back door
Backyard composting can cut down on your garbage by up to 30%, by the diversion of food waste. Compost is great for gardens, mix it into the soil, or use it as a mulch for healthier soil and growth!
Where to Find Support
The Regional District supports the non-profit organization recycling and Environmental Action Planning Society (REAPS) to provide residents with education and resources on all aspects of the 3Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle!
They have tips, tools and best practices for composting and vermicomposting (worm based composting), offer demonstrations, workshops, compost bins and worms. Find it all by visiting: reaps.org
The Northern Bear Awareness program has information for residents to manage their waste and compost so that it does not attract bears and other wildlife. Keep the bears away by visiting: northernbearawareness.com
There are four locations to drop off yard waste in the Prince George area: Foothills Boulevard Regional Landfill, Vanway, Quinn Street, and Shelley. Regional transfer stations. The Regional District also collects yard and garden waste at the Valemount Regional Transfer Station and the Mackenzie Landfill.
NorGrow 101
Close to 1,900 loads of compost are sold each year. NorGrow is helping lawns and gardens grow all over the region including the City of Prince George, UNBC, the Railway and Forestry Museum, Huble Homestead, Tete Jaune Cemetery, Mackenzie Community Garden as well as a number of local community gardens.
Bringing it Home
While the Regional District does it’s best to compost and reuse as much organic waste as possible, there is always more that can be done. Getting your own compost for the backyard, and learning how to properly compost, you’ll be well set up to benefit. As a great way to improve soil you’ll be able to grow more of your own veggies, making less trips to the grocery store, and cutting back on waste in your home.
There are many resources out there to help you learn how to set up your compost and take advantage of it. Reach out to the Regional District, R.E.A.P.S, and Northern Bear Awareness for all the info to not only start composting, but make it the best compost you can! If you aren’t able to set up a compost of your own, then don’t forget about NorGrow available for purchase!
Website: http://www.rdffg.bc.ca/
Phone: 250-960-4400
Address: 155 George St., Prince George, BC V2L 1P8
