News Release template – Water conservation and composting

THINK WATER CONSERVATION, THINK COMPOSTING

[Insert town] – Composting is a great way to improve your soil’s moisture-holding capacity and also reduce water loss. It’s a creative way to conserve water but still keep your garden looking fresh and colorful.

Composting is the natural breakdown of organic materials. The product, compost, is the rich organic soil that is made as microorganisms decompose yard and kitchen wastes.

“Composting is easy and it’s a great alternative to throwing away food scraps,” says Kelley Dennings, education and outreach coordinator for the N.C. Division of Pollution Prevention and Environmental Assistance. “Between backyard composting and vermicomposting, there’s a convenient method for any household.”

The first step in composting is choosing the method that works well for your household. Backyard composting is best for those that can pick a location outside that is convenient, shaded and well-drained. Those choosing to backyard compost may want to use a compost bin: it keeps the material in a confined area, retains heat and moisture, deters pests and reduces the effects of wind and rain. You can build your own bin or purchase one from a business in your community, a local government or online.

Vermicomposting, or composting using earthworms, is an ideal substitution for those without room for a large compost pile or bin. Worm composting should be done in a wooden or plastic bin with holes to ensure oxygen flow and can be used both in and outdoors. After three to four months a worm bin’s compost can be harvested and used inside with your houseplants or outside in your garden.

So give that water hose a break and give new life to your garden. To learn more about composting, vermicomposting or to buy a compost bin in your area visit http://www.p2pays.org/compost/composting101.asp.

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Suggestions for Tailoring Compost News Release to your Community
Quote Ideas:
-[Insert Town] has a yard waste facility where you can learn more about composting
-[Insert Town] will be having a compost demonstration on [Insert Date] and will also be selling compost bins at [insert location]

Quote source ideas:
-Master Gardener
-Cooperative Extension Agent
-Soil and Water Conservation Specialist

Other news release templates can be found here.