One of the first things we did to start our homestead was to start with the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. We did not have trash service so the less waste we had, the less we had to go to the local landfill. I started paying attention to what kind of packaging products came in and started shopping at the local farmer’s market instead of buying pre-packaged vegetables. The next step was learning about composting. I began doing lots of research and started taking composting classes at the local college. There are so many different ways to compost! We decided to create a small wooden bin for all of our kitchen and yard waste. The compost would be used later for our first garden.

Step One: Building the Frame

Step Two: Installing the Sliding Wall for Easy Turning and a Lid to Keep Critters Out

Step Three: Finding the Perfect Location

Step Four: Making Sure it is Critter Proof

We have been composting for almost a year now and it has become second nature. I keep a bowl in the house for all of our scraps to be added to the bin. We also make sure to open the lid when it rains to keep the moisture at the correct level. Since the weather has been warm, it has not been taking long for everything to compost down and make great soil for the garden. It’s almost time to build a bigger bin!