Culver City Observer -

To kick off International Compost Awareness Week (May 5-11), Athens American Organics and the Culver City Public Works Environmental Programs and Operations Division (EPO) are teaming up to provide free compost!

The event will be held on Saturday May 4 from 8 a.m. until noon in the parking lot across from the Boneyard dog park at Culver City Park, located at 9800 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City.

Compost is used to improve or maintain high-quality soil, grow healthy plants, reduce fertilizer and pesticide use, improve water quality and protect the environment. At the compost giveaway, Culver City’s residents will be able to collect complimentary compost of the City for their own gardens and projects.

“The City is pleased to host an event where we can continue to support the health of our environment,” said Culver City Mayor Thomas Small. “Composting will be a joint undertaking of the community and City to help rejuvenate Earth.”

The requirements are that you bring your own shovel to fill your garbage bags, yard waste bags, reusable containers or a pick-up bed or trailer.

Although compost is ready to go on its own, the city recommends mixing it with topsoil or gardening filler. A 60/40 split (60% topsoil and 40% compost) will likely yield the best results.

For more information on the compost program call Public Works Environmental Programs and Operations Customer Service at (310) 253-6400.