Backyard Composting. A Do-It-Yourself Guide. 70 Pine St. Bracebridge, ON P1L 1N3 Phone: (705) Fax: (705)

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1 Backyard Composting A Do-It-Yourself Guide 70 Pine St. Bracebridge, ON P1L 1N3 Phone: (705) Fax: (705) publicworks@muskoka.on.ca

2 What is composting? Composting is a natural biological process, which converts organic material into a stable humus-like product called compost. During the composting process, various microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, break down organic material into simpler substances. Composting is an aerobic process, meaning that the microorganisms require oxygen to do their work. What can be composted? Composting has the potential to manage all of the organic material in the waste stream which cannot otherwise be recycled. Examples of organic material that can be composted include most food scraps, leaf and yard waste and paper products. For a full list of acceptable compost materials, see the rear panel of this pamphlet. How long does the composting process take? A number of factors are important in controlling the time that the process takes. These factors include: temperature, moisture, oxygen, particle size, the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio of the waste, and the degree of mixing or turning involved. In general, the more actively these factors are controlled, the faster the process. Typically, an immature compost can be produced in about a month, while a mature compost may be allowed to cure for six months to a year.

3 What is the best location for a backyard compost bin? The compost bin should be placed in a well-drained area and where it is convenient to use. It should be placed where it can get as much sun as possible as the microbiological activity will be high. If the unit is placed in the shade, the activity is reduced. Won t the compost attract animals or pests? Properly maintained composts should not attract animals. For the best chance of success, place your compost bin in a sunny area and be sure to turn it frequently. A wellaerated compost pile should have no unpleasant odours. It is also important never to include meat, dairy products or oils in your backyard compost; these can attract unwanted animals. Where can I purchase a compost bin? At-home compost bins can be purchased from most hardware or agricultural supply stores. At-home bins can also be constructed using wood and chicken wire. For instructions on how to build your own bin at home, visit: mplan.html With information from

4 Please Print Clearly Applicant Information Applicant Name BACKYARD COMPOST BIN REBATE PROGRAM APPLICATION FORM This program is available to Muskoka residents only and limited to available funds Mailing Address Town Postal Code Telephone Number Address Name of Property Owner (if different from above) Address where backyard compost bin is being installed (if different from above) Compost Bin Installation Information Installation Date (Month, Day, Year) Quantity 1 Manufacturer/Make Model Name/Number Purchased From Signature of Applicant Date (MM/DD/YY) Personal information on this form is collected by The District Municipality of Muskoka under the authority of The Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended and any b-laws passed pursuant to it and for the purpose of administering the Backyard Compost Bin Rebate Program and for no other purpose. Applicants are advised that Muskoka may be required to disclose information in this form under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. Questions should be directed to the Freedom of Information Coordinator, 70 Pine Street, Bracebridge, ON. P1L 1N3 For Office Use Only Application Number Date Received (MM/DD/YY) Approval Date (MM/DD/YY) Eligible Rebate 1 x $25.00 Total Rebate $25.00 Approved By (Signature)

5 Steps for applying for rebate: 1. Purchase and install backyard compost bin. 2. Return this form, properly completed, with a copy of the original, legible sales receipt for the backyard compost bin. 3. Provide proof of Muskoka residency (e.g. photocopy of tax receipt). Please note: This is a limited time offer. Detach the rebate form and mail it with your receipt to: The District of Muskoka Public Works Department Attn: Compost Bin Rebate 70 Pine St. Bracebridge, ON P1L 1N3

6 What to include in your backyard compost Leaves (chopped) Fruit & Vegetable scraps Grass (dry) Plants & Weeds (without ripe seeds) Egg shells (crushed) Old potting soil Tea bags and coffee grounds/filters Soft plant stems Shredded paper What NOT to include in your backyard compost Meat, fish and bones Dairy products Invasive weeds Plastics/Recyclables Pet waste Metals Cheese, meat or other sauces Fats and oils For more information about backyard composting, visit or contact Meghan Hoult, Public Awareness Representative for Waste Management at ext. 322, or