Good Dirt Composting Collective

05/16/2026

05/14/2026

Consider compost when looking for more affordable fertilizer options. Good advice for farmers and home gardeners alike.

American growers are feeling the pressure of rising fertilizer prices as the war in the Middle East continues to impact global markets, demonstrating U.S. vulnerability in relying on synthetic and mineral fertilizers produced overseas.

Compost, which has long-term benefits for plant growth, is often overlooked in discussions surrounding the current fertilizer cost crisis. Compost is a locally-produced tool to improve the resiliency of American agricultural systems and mitigate the consequences of future crises such as the one currently facing American farmers and consumers.

The US Composting Council (USCC) and the Institute for Local Self-Reliance (ILSR) are urging Americans to consider compost as a solution amid rising fertilizer prices. BioCycle recently published an article that demonstrates the power of compost as an American-made tool for improving the resiliency of our food system. The article includes contributions from USCC, ILSR, and regenerative farmers across the country. You can find the article here: https://www.biocycle.net/compost-fertilizer-crisis-solution/

05/07/2026

Adding compost to soil helps retain moisture, reducing the need for irrigation and improving drought resistance. By increasing the soil’s ability to absorb and hold water, compost supports smarter water use, reduces runoff, and builds more resilient landscapes.

It’s a simple solution with a powerful impact, from conserving water to strengthening the health of our soils and communities.

05/06/2026

In other news, check out this article about compost dropoff at Goshen Market Foundation, thanks to New Earth Farm STL. The composting service has saved 3,555 pounds of food waste from the landfill so far in their cooperation with the farmer's market.

“Composting your food scraps is a simple way to live your values.”

05/05/2026

Check out Monday's meeting with reports from our own Mary Grose and Carol Frerker from Willoughby Heritage Farm and Conservation Reserve. Great job, ladies!

Did you miss the Annual Meeting yesterday? Check it out on our Youtube Channel!

https://youtu.be/DWKNnvZxiv8?si=nYHU3L7oLUhrroFT

05/02/2026

Talking to Scouts at Camp Warren Levis today about, yup, composting. Playing the composting wheel questions wins you a scout pokemon card.

05/01/2026

04/30/2026

Madison County Conservation Day was celebrated in Alhambra Township Park. More than 200 4-H kids spent time at more than a dozen stations including how to fish, learning about pollinators, and yes, composting! Looks like GDCC members Megan and Jacquie and SIUE STEM Program Director Liza had fun with these curious and enthusiastic kids.

04/30/2026

Can’t wait!

International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) begins this Sunday. Now is the time to finalize your plans, gather your materials, and get ready to share your compost story. Follow along next week as we highlight the benefits of composting and how it supports our environment and communities.