Community Composter Training Program

Overview

For the past decade, Denver Urban Gardens (DUG)’s Community Composter Training Program has equipped hundreds of participants with the knowledge and skills to design, teach, and maintain compost systems that build healthy soil—and, in turn, healthy communities.

As our climate warms and weather patterns grow more unpredictable, soil health has become a frontline defense against environmental instability. Composting is one of the most effective and accessible ways we can restore balance: capturing carbon, reducing landfill waste, conserving moisture, and regenerating the ecosystems that sustain us.

This 13-session “train-the-trainer” course combines technical instruction, classroom learning, and hands-on practice in the soil. Participants gain deep understanding of compost biology and microbiology, vermicomposting, and organic waste diversion, while exploring how these practices connect to environmental justice and climate action. Guest experts from Denver Water, DOTI, Denver Botanic Gardens, Eco-Cycle, and other partners provide additional perspectives and resources.

Together, graduates become catalysts for climate resilience—using compost to transform waste into renewal and strengthen the living systems that support us all.

Who Should Enroll

Urban Growers
Community and home gardeners who want to establish or improve compost systems in their own gardens.

Educators & Environmental Professionals
Teachers, nonprofit staff, and municipal partners looking to integrate composting education and soil health into their programming.

Change Makers & Climate Advocates 

Individuals passionate about reducing waste and building local climate solutions through practical, community-based action.

No prior composting experience is required—just curiosity, commitment, and a desire to make an impact.

What You’ll Learn

Through this course, participants will:

• Understand how composting supports soil health, water conservation, and climate resilience.
• Explore Front Range soils and learn how composting enhances structure, texture, and fertility.
• Practice “many ways to compost”—including backyard, vermicomposting,in-garden systems, and in tandem with municipal compost cart collection systems
• Learn how composting connects to carbon sequestration and organic soil management.
• Gain comfort with system design, construction, and maintenance for a range of site types.
• Collaborate with peers to co-create best practices for success across diverse garden settings.
• Build facilitation and teaching skills to lead composting education in the community.

By the end of the program, participants are equipped to lead composting initiatives and mentor others in sustainable soil practices.