Home Composting

Composting is a simple process that requires little time or effort on the part of homeowners. In fact, composting yardwaste may take less time than bagging yardwaste for collection.

Contrary to common myths, properly maintained compost bins do not smell bad, but have a pleasant, earthy odor similar to freshly plowed soil.

Most homeowners that compost are able to significantly reduce the amount of waste they set out at the curb. For instance, in a survey of Fitchburg residents who use home compost bins, over 75% of survey respondents composted at least 3/4 of their kitchen wastes.

In a study of Fitchburg's waste composition, food waste accounted for nearly 25% of the refuse. If every household composted 75% of their food waste, Fitchburg would be able to reduce the amount of refuse landfilled by over 850,000 pounds per year!

Compost Dos and Don'ts

It is very important that you compost the right things to ensure the best microbial environment to break down your compost and turn it into good, usable soil. Follow these at-home composting guidelines below from the WDNR.

What you CAN compost:

  • yard waste and brush
  • vegetable and fruit scraps
  • Coffee grounds and filters
  • Teabags and tea leaves
  • Nutshells
  • Eggshells
  • Paper products (must be clean and unwaxed, such as newspaper, printer paper, or cardboard)

What you should NOT compost:

  • meat or fish scraps, bones and packaging
  • dairy products
  • fats and oils
  • pet waste
  • diseased or insect ridden plants
  • invasive plants (unless completely dry and without flowers or seeds)
  • Plastics labeled as compostable or biodegradable

Informational Brochures


Want to learn more? Check out these informational brochures:

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