Home Composting

To help your garden or grass to grow better and to recycle your yard waste and kitchen scraps, composting is the solution.

In 1993 Massachusetts banned yard waste from the trash in an effort to reduce garbage, save money, utilize valuable organic waste, and provide nutrient rich compost for home lawns and gardens.  Using compost on the soil adds essential nutrients, improves root growth, and helps retain moisture, which will help cut down on your water bills.   By placing kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and leaves in your compost bin instead of in the trash, you will end up with rich conditioner for your soil that will result in healthier vegetables, flowers, or grass. 

Composting benefits the environment by reducing the need for pesticides  It also reduces trash collection costs in the City.  
The DEP estimates that food waste accounts for at least 10 percent of all municipal solid waste generated in the state, or nearly 900,000 tons per year.  It is important to note that Waltham budgeted over $82,000.00 transporting yard waste.

Waltham residents can purchase an Earth Machine and Brave New Composter Bins at a discounted price at the Lexington Department of Public Works.   Residents pay for the bins at the Public Works, but go to the Minuteman Facility booth (60 Hartwell Ave) to pick up the bins.  The hours are 7:30 – 3:00 Monday – Friday.  Call 781-861-2757 to reach the Lexington DPW. 
For more information regarding composting please contact the Recycling Department at 781-314-3390.

 For more on composting information and alternative bins visit these websites:


how to compost

composting 101

 

 

© 2001 City of Waltham, MA.   All Rights Reserved.   This page was last updated March 03, 2010