COMPOSTING WORKSHOP

Presented by Mercer Society & Keep Houston Beautiful

September 7, 2001. Tuesday 9 am to 11 am

Visitor center at

Mercer Arboretum

22306 Aldine Westfield rd

Humble, Texas 77338

281-443-8731

Talk Title: “Introduction to Composting”

COMPOSTING

This presentation is a basic introduction to composting. It explains why we compost, types of composting from backyard to larger operations, how to build a compost pile, what feedstocks or materials we can use, the equipment that can be used, and how to apply compost in the garden.

9 am to 10 am – Presentation by Mr. Ferguson

Mr. Ferguson has over 30 years of business experience. He founded and owns Natural Waste Solutions, Inc., dba Nature's Way Resources, a Houston based composting and recycling company that specialize in high quality compost, mulch, and soil mixes. He holds an MS degree in Physics and Geology and is a licensed Soil Scientist in Texas. He has won many awards in horticulture and environmental issues. He represents the composting/recycling industry on the Houston-Galveston Area Council for solid waste for over 13 years. His personal garden has been featured in several gardening books, "Better Homes and Gardens" magazine and his business has been recognized in the Wall Street Journal for the quality and value of the products. He recently won the Houston Chronicle’s Ultimate Award for the finest quality compost in the Houston region made from recycled materials. In 2007 he won a Keep Houston Beautiful - Mayors Proud Partner Award for Environmental Education.

Education: Stephen F. Austin State University, M.S., December 1982 (Major: Physics Minor: Geology)

Stephen F. Austin State University, B.S., December 1976 (Major 1: Physics, Major 2: Mathematics, Minor: Geology)

10 am to 11 am – Hands on demonstration by Mr. Jeff Heilers (Assistant Director and Green House manager at Mercer Arboretum). He has a BS from Texas A & M in urban forestry & ornamental horticulture.

He has been with the Mercer Arboretum for over 8 years. He has a great passion for gardening and cooking.

Please contact Suzanne Chapman 281-443-8731 e-mail:

to register for the workshop

before 9/1/2010

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