We’re delighted to announce the launch of a new compost hub at our Anna T. Jeanes (ATJ) site. This project, in partnership with the Sustainable Waste Management Practices (SWaMP) Subcommittee of the Fairhope Environmental Advisory Board (FEAB), is a big step towards our goal of building a more sustainable community. The main purpose of our hub is to both educate the community on the benefits of composting and divert organic waste from our local landfill.
Why Composting Matters
Did you know that food waste is the single largest source of landfill usage in the U.S.? It accounts for 24% of all landfill space. Composting significantly cuts down on landfill waste, reduces methane emissions, and produces nutrient-rich soil.
What to Expect at the Hub
The compost hub will feature two different small-scale composting systems to demonstrate effective methods for both home and community use.
Windrow Composting: We’ve expanded our existing windrow composting system at the ATJ site. This simple, low-maintenance method is ideal for a large volume of organic material. The windrow will be a collaboration between SWaMP and Hope Community volunteers. Initial compost materials will come from local businesses like Fairhope Juice Company and The Hope Farm. As the project grows, we’ll encourage community members to contribute their food waste as well.
Vermicomposting: We will also be adding a vermicomposting system. This method uses worms to break down organic waste, producing a consistent, nutrient-rich product perfect for enhancing garden soil. We plan to build or purchase a suitable container, similar to the raised beds already on-site.
Both systems will serve as living examples of how easy and effective composting can be.
Get Involved!
We’ll be holding compost education sessions led by Sarah Bogdanovich, chair of the SWaMP Subcommittee. You can also sign up to join Hope Community’s Gardening & Composting committee. Along with our community education workshops, the committee will have regular meetings every other month. These sessions will teach you how to compost at home and how to properly contribute to the compost hub. Keep an eye on our event calendar and social media for announcements about these sessions.
We’ll have signage and educational materials on-site.
The Benefits for Our Gardens
The compost created at the hub will be used to enrich our own gardens at the ATJ site. Windrow compost is excellent for flower gardens and containers, while the highly-potent vermicompost will be used to improve the soil in our vegetable beds.
