def #294 11/05/08
MASTER COMPOSTING PROGRAM RECOGNIZED
TOMS RIVER – For nine years now, Ocean County has offered its residents the tools and skills to be Master
Composters – the result has been a growing network of volunteers who educate and raise awareness about the environmental
benefits of composting.
And, for that, Ocean County has been recognized by the state Department of Environmental Protection receiving a 2008
Recycling Award.
“Our recycling programs continue to be a model across the state of New Jersey,” said Freeholder James F. Lacey, who
serves as liaison to the county’s recycling program. “This award emphasizes what we already know, that in Ocean County
the environment truly is a priority.”
The Ocean County Board of Freeholders recognized the program today (Nov. 5) during its regular board meeting.
Under the program, run by the county’s Department of Solid Waste Management and overseen by the county’s Assistant
Recycling Coordinator Kathleen Avery, up to 20 people each year can participate in a 12-hour informational program
conducted at the Education Center at the Ocean County Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood.
“Following their participation in the program, these volunteers perform community outreach to support home composting,”
Lacey said. “These volunteers spend time at community events including the Ocean County Fair providing information on
composting and its benefits in addition to conducting “how to compost” classes.”
The program currently has about 50 active volunteers.
“Master composter volunteers have been very helpful to the County staff in supporting our composting efforts,” said
Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari. “They are the foundation of this program.”
Lacey noted that Ocean County is one of two counties statewide that offers this program.
“I want to congratulate the staff and the volunteers on doing such a great job,” Lacey said. “The program is an effective
tool on how to better handle the organic portion of household waste and complements our many other recycling programs.”
The award was presented on behalf of DEP Commissioner Lisa Jackson during the 28th New Jersey Recycling Symposium and
Awards Luncheon. The DEP and the Association of New Jersey Recyclers co-sponsor the annual event.
