Compost for Brooklyn

Completed: 1. Identified vacant lot and pitched project idea to property owner 2. Built first compost bin 3. Began planting up the perimeter of the lot 4. Planted ten trees 5. Hosted our first block party 6. Established compost drop-off and open hours 7. Created website 8. Tabled at local events 9. Completed second compost bin 10. Created board of directors 11. Became a certified urban wildlife refuge To be completed: 1. Establish bylaws and identify volunteer opportunities 2. Expand drop-off hours 3. Build 9 more compost bins 4. Begin composting for local businesses 5. Establish a partnership with a local CSA 6. Plant more native plant species 7. Host fall planting and neighborhood greening block party 8. Launch a composting education program 9. Apply for grants 10. Build a rainwater harvesting system Impact: The response from our neighborhood has been incredibly positive! I have neighbors that come to the garden just to gaze at the flowers and hang out. We are already having a definite impact on the environment. A variety of insects and animals have made their homes in the garden. Many of my neighbors have begun composting. Perhaps most importantly, the garden has become a place for my neighbors to congregate, meet the people they pass on the street, and form friendships. I now know most of the people living on my block.