MASTER COMPOSTER PROGRAMS TO MEET THE CHANGING CLIENTELE OF EXTENSION
Extension Education
Amanda Tedrow
Program Development Coordinator
University of Georgia
Athens
Abstract
The Georgia Master Composter Program is an adult environmental education course developed as a partnership between University of Georgia Extension and the Athens-Clarke County Solid Waste Department. The program was created in 2011 to address the increasing demand for composting education in Georgia. Totaling over 30 hours of instruction, the program includes nine weekly class sessions and two weekend field trips. Facilitators collaborate with public and private entities and statewide organizations to provide unbiased, scientifically accurate composting information and experiential programming. Students receive hands-on instruction in the chemistry and microbiology of composting, types of and reasons for composting, climate and conditions in Georgia that impact composting, and training for teaching varied audiences. In addition to education, the Georgia Master Composter program provides visibility for Extension. More than half of the participants were previously unfamiliar with Extension education and programming. The program has also generated new partnerships between Extension and a variety of Georgia communities and organizations. Extending the program’s outreach effort, participants fulfill composting education requests as volunteers and broaden the Extension network to new individuals and community groups. Participants from the 2012 and 2013 programs have volunteered over 1,000 hours to their communities and interacted with over 1,100 community members. As assets to their community, participants fill a vital role in reducing waste and improving soil within their local environment.
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Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: A. Tedrow, S. Janssen
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Tedrow, A. County Extension Agent, University of Georgia, Georgia, 30606
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Janssen, S. Waste Reduction Administrator, Athens-Clarke County Solid Waste Department, Georgia, 30605