Anonymous
Source: Santa Barbara County Public Works Department
The Santa Barbara County Public Works Department can help residents save money and improve the environment through the Backyard Composting Program. The County offers resources to help residents learn how to compost where they live. The County partners with the City of Santa Barbara, Solvang, and City of Goleta to provide educational resources free of charge. Compost Program Specialist Sam Dickinson says, “When you compost leftover food scraps and plant materials in your own residence, you will create your own nutrient-rich soil amendment for your garden and practice sustainability.”
For composting content, please visit www.LessIsMore.org/Compost
The County also offers composting bins at wholesale prices at three locations:
1. South Coast Recycling and Transfer Station at 4430 Calle Real in Santa Barbara
2. North County Public Works Building at 620 West Foster Road in Orcutt
3. Santa Ynez Valley Recycling and Transfer Station at 4004 Foxen Canyon Road in Los Olivos
Using a green waste recycling bin is another great way to help complete the organics loop. This loop starts when grass, leaves, flowers, and other yard materials are discarded into this bin.
These materials are collected and chipped into mulch, which is then distributed to local residents and farmers. Mulch Program Coordinator Joey Costa says, “The main benefit of mulching is water conservation and nutrient input. Returning this mulch to the soil completes the organics loop, with many positive impacts for any garden.” Residents can get “load your own” mulch for free at the South Coast Recycling and Transfer Station and the Santa Ynez Valley Recycling and Transfer Station. For details visit www.LessIsMore.org/Mulch or call (805) 681-4981 in South County and (805) 686-5084 in North County.
For more information about the Backyard Composting Program, visit the County’s recycling website,www.LessIsMore.org/Compost, or email sdickinson@cosbpw.net.
