Help the earth with compost

The McHenry County Defenders office has composters for sale, but they're going fast.

The cost is $40 for members and $45 for others. They are available at the office, 124 Cass St., Woodstock. Call (815) 338-0393 to arrange pick up.

Why should you compost? Along with fuel efficiency, water conservation and reduction in meat consumption, home composting is one of the most environmentally beneficial activities of modern society.

Yard and food wastes make up approximately 30 percent of the waste stream in the US. Not only does composting successfully divert a significant portion of your family's waste stream from landfill and water treatment facilities, it is a natural method of recycling organic materials into valuable humus.

Finished compost is nutritious enough to use as a soil amendment, buffering the pH and helping to retain water in the soil. It also can cool the soil's surface and help mitigate erosion. Why buy topsoil when you create your own endless supply?

Home composting also serves as an invaluable educational tool by teaching youngsters about conservation and the cycle of life. If it gets your child thinking about science or biology, or voluntarily participating in gardening and yard work, isn't it worth the effort?

The McHenry County Defenders is a citizen's group dedicated to improving and preserving the environment.

For information, call the office at (815) 338-0393 or e-mail mcdef@owc.net.