Workshops and Classes

Free Composting Workshops

These workshops, open to all residents of the county, will discuss the principles of composting kitchen and yard wastes using backyard bins and vermicomposting (worm composting) techniques.   You will learn how composting will improve your soil and enhance the health of your plants and vegetables.  Composting also reduces organic waste going to the landfill, thereby cutting greenhouse gas emissions and slowing climate change. Virtual and in-person workshops are led by Master Composters and sponsored by the County of Santa Cruz Department of Community Development and Infrastructure, Public Works Division.

Upon completion of the workshop, GreenWaste Recovery customers in the unincorporated county are offered a free backyard composting bin or worm bin.  Many other jurisdictions also offer benefits to home composters.

Basic and Advanced Composting will be held on the dates, times and locations listed below:

Composting Workshop Schedule 2025-26

Space is limited at these popular workshops; advance reservation required. Call (831) 824-6484 or sign up online at goo.gl/Fw6BaK. After submitting your request, you will be notified if you are accepted in the workshop.