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Become a Master Composter! Join us at the beautiful Water Conservation Garden to gain in-depth composting knowledge to expand your sustainable gardening practices. You can earn a certificate of completion after attending all 5 weeks, then go on to receive the Master Composter certification and badge after completing the additional requirements! Meet new people in this fun, hands-on course. Class size is limited. Attendees must preregister. After completing this 5-week course you will have a better understanding of how to: * Minimize your carbon footprint and reduce your methane emissions by keeping food and yard waste out of the landfill. * Create natural nutrient-rich soil amendments with your food and yard waste that help your garden grow. * Avoid using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. * Reduce water use and increase water retention. Compost increases your soil’s water-holding capacity and improves water retention. The Master Composter course provides training in the art and science of composting through lectures, demonstrations, and a field trip. The course covers the following topics: * In-depth traditional composting and the basics of composting with worms (vermicomposting) * Compost bin building and troubleshooting (in teams!) * The microbiology of composting, including the role of fungi and bacteria * Bokashi fermentation for saving food scraps to compost * Macro decomposers in your compost pile * A tour of the Water Conservation Garden’s composting exhibit * The environmental impacts of composting * … and much more! Schedule (This class will meet Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.:) * March 15th, 2025 * March 22nd, 2025 * March 29th, 2025 * April 5th, 2025 * April 12th, 2025 How to get certified: Master Composter certification requires attendance at all 5 classes, as well as 30 volunteer hours of related community service. Certification is optional. Residents of unincorporated San Diego County receive preferential registration. All others will be placed on a waitlist and apprised of space available 1-2 weeks before the start of the course. Course Fee: $25* *If this course fee presents a financial hardship, it may be waived upon request. Please contact Erin Stone at erin@solanacenter.org before registering to inquire. Made possible through generous funding by the County of San Diego. Thanks to our host, The Water Conservation Garden. Visit: Master Composter Course – El Cajon Solana Center for Environmental Innovation on Instagram and Facebook

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