Composting is a process that naturally decomposes (breaks down) organic materials, such as yard waste, fruits, vegetables, and paper towels. Once your food scraps and yard trimming are finished decomposing, the material created is called "compost."
Not only does compost help to decrease the amount of food that you throw in your trash; completed compost can be used to improve soil quality and support plant growth without the use of chemical fertilizers.
Provides basic information on what backyard composting is, why it is important, and provides instructions on how to build and maintain your backyard compost pile.
Ramsey County Video on Composting: This video from Ramsey County shows how to build and maintain your backyard compost pile.
Food Scraps (Organics) Drop Off Sites: If you are unable to set up backyard composting at your property, the city has drop off sites for organics (food scrap). Click on the link to view the list of drop off sites.
Citywide Yard Waste Collection: The citywide garbage collection also offers yard waste collection at an additional cost. This is a great option if you are unable to compost these materials at home. Click on the link to learn more about this service.
Last Edited: December 2, 2023