Meet Melia, compost-lover and community advocate
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am passionate about urban gardening, food access, and sustainability. As a child, I gardened with my grandmother, who instilled in me a love for growing my own food. Throughout adulthood, I’ve gravitated toward local food sources, such as Community-Supported Agriculture (CSAs) and community gardens. Through DUG, I have developed connections within the community that have deepened my understanding of food justice, sustainability, and environmental initiatives in Colorado.
How did you get involved with DUG?
When I moved to the Washinton Virginia Vale neighborhood, I noticed the Placebridge Community Garden on my walks along the Cherry Creek Trail. I reached out to the garden leader and was fortunate to get a plot the following session. I began volunteering at DUG events and even helped build a community garden.
Why is urban gardening and gardening education important for you? What calls you to want to share your learnings with your community?
Urban gardening can be a powerful tool for community empowerment, teaching us self-sufficiency, and environmental stewardship. Whether through workshops, community garden projects, or simply discussing gardening at gatherings, I strive to inspire others to cultivate their green spaces. Ultimately, my goal is to encourage a deeper relationship with our food and environment that can lead to more sustainable living practices and improve overall health.
Last summer, I managed a newly built community garden at the Restoration Outreach Program in Aurora. It was a fantastic opportunity to oversee food production intended for food bank distribution. This experience provided valuable lessons and allowed me to support local food systems.
What key takeaways did you glean from the Community Composter Training Program?
I completed the community compost program in 2024 and realized composting is easier than I had thought. Before joining the program, I had been composting at home but learned much more about commercial composting and waste diversion programs. For instance, in Denver, compost services are provided alongside trash and recycling, allowing residents to opt into composting services. Even if you don’t have access to composting services, using worms to compost can work in small spaces and is renter-friendly.
I learned how to be a better gardener by understanding the benefits of composting for overall soil health, including water retention and nutrients. When I make my own compost, just like in gardening, I know exactly where it comes from. I can ensure it is free from harmful additives that could impact water systems and wildlife.
Overall, the program equipped me with knowledge and skills that empower me to contribute to sustainability in my community through composting.
What’s next for you in the world of urban gardening and waste diversion?
I joined the 2025 DUG Community Composter program, and I am excited to provide hands-on support and education to community gardeners while also encouraging resident participation in DOTI’s compost program.
I will continue learning new techniques and technologies to enhance urban gardening and promote waste diversion. I am eager to engage in community initiatives that bring people together to share resources, knowledge, and surplus produce. I would love to work in the climate and sustainability industry at some point in my career.
