Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection Offering Compost Bins to Support Greener Yards and a Healthier Planet Composting Workshops at Wheaton and Kensington[...]

For Immediate Release: Thursday, October 2, 2025

Montgomery County's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is reminding residents and businesses that compost bins are available to help turn yard trim into nutrient-rich compost, and support the County's goal toto reduce waste, reuse, and recycle more, aiming for zero waste.

County residents and businesses can pick up a bin at no additional cost at multiple locations throughout the County. Bins must be picked up in person-delivery is not available. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability at your preferred location.

For more information on composting, visit the Montgomery County DEP website.

"Managing and recycling yard trim directly at the source is among the climate-smart actions we can all take to reduce waste," said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. "By composting at home, residents can play a vital role in helping us achieve our climate goals while reinforcing the County's commitment to diverting organic materials from the waste stream."

Composting turns yard and garden trimmings-such as grass clippings, leaves, and prunings-into a dark, crumbly material that enriches soil naturally. The process combines carbon-rich "browns," like dried leaves and wood chips, with nitrogen-rich "greens," such as grass clippings and flowers, along with water and time.

DEP is offering two in-person composting workshops on Saturday, Oct. 4:

• 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Kensington Park Library, 4201 Knowles Ave., Kensington.
• 2-3:30 p.m., Wheaton Library, 11701 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring.

"We're offering these workshops and compost bins at no additional cost because we want to make it easier for people in Montgomery County to participate in sustainable waste practices," said Jeff Seltzer, acting director of the Department of Environmental Protection. "Backyard composting is a simple, effective way to reduce waste and improve soil health, and these bins are designed to make that process accessible to everyone.

Compost Bin Features:

• 17.6-cubic-foot capacity.
• Adjustable size to fit large or small yards.
• Designed for yard trim only (grass clippings, leaves, and garden trimmings).
• Lightweight (only 8 pounds) and UV-stabilized for five to 10 years of use.
• Recyclable at the Shady Grove Processing Facility when no longer needed.
• Designed for easy turning or access.
• Tool-free assembly in minutes.

Follow DEP on Facebook and Instagram.

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