Compost is a dark, crumbly and earthy smelling form of decomposing organic matter. It improves your soil and the plants growing in it. Many experienced gardeners refer to compost as "black gold"!

Composting is a practical, convenient and inexpensive way to turn your yard trimmings and food scraps into a valuable soil amendment. By using compost you are recycling organic matter from plants back to the soil in a usable form. If you have a garden, lawn, trees or house plants -you have a use for compost!

This 4 session course is an in-depth study of backyard composting. Your instructors are UVM faculty and professionals within Vermont's compost industry. Additionally, a
workshop will be offered in the spring of 2004. Course topics covered include:

* Biology of Composting * Worm Composting
* Recipe Design * Compost for Disease Control
* Site and Container Selection * Managing the Compost Process
* Trouble Shooting * Educational Outreach Partnerships

Becoming a Master Composter

To receive certification as a "Master Composter" students who complete the training will need to contribute 20 hours of volunteer service by November 30, 2004. New graduates will receive support and guidance from the UVM Extension Home Horticulture staff.

Locations Around the State
This course will be offered statewide via Vermont Interactive Television:
· Bennington * Randolph Center
· Brattleboro * Rutland
· Colchester * Springfield
· Johnson * St. Albans
· Lyndon * Waterbury
· Middlebury * White River Jct.
Admission
Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up now to avoid disappointment! Tuition is
$75 for 4 classes plus one workshop. Students receive a course guide and additional materials.

Master Gardeners and MG Interns receive a discounted rate of $35 for tuition and all materials.
Master Composter volunteer hours can also be applied as Master Gardener volunteer hours.

The full amount will be refunded until October 15, 2003. After this date no refunds can be made.

Special Accommodations
If you require an accommodation to participate in this program, please notify our office at
(802) 656-9562 two weeks in advance of the event starting date of October 30, 2003.

Missed Classes
Students are expected to purchase a video of any missed classes and submit a written summary in
order to successfully complete the course. Videos cost $17 each.

Enrollment Confirmation
Registration is confirmed via a letter within one week of payment.

*** Enrollment Deadline is October 15, 2003 ***