Why spend money on potting soil, fertilizers and other items for your garden when you can make your own for free, by composting waste you already have?

Turn your scraps into rich soil for planting. This is a great way to recycle fruit and vegetables scraps, coffee grounds, eggshells, grass clippings, leaves and much more. Composting food waste will reduce waste, cost for disposal and also save valuable landfill space.The Monroe County Municipal Waste Management Authoritywill be holding free composting classes Sept. 9 and Oct. 14. The classes will start at 9 a.m. and last approximately one hour. The classes are free and compost bins will be available to purchase at cost.One winner will receive a free backyard composter. All classes will be held at the facility in Blakeslee, and a certified Master Gardener will be teaching the classes. To participate, you must register with the Monroe County Waste Authority. Classes are limited to 20 people.For more information or to register, visit

www.thewasteauthority.com, email

cparks@thewasteauthority.com or call 570-643-6100.