Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority

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Composting Bins

Soilsaver Compost Bin

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Soilsaver Compost Bin

For several years the CCCSWA sold the Smith & Hawken Biostack compost bin to residents at a discount price (50% off retail price). In 2009, Smith & Hawken was purchased by Target Corporation and production of the Biostack discontinued. To find a comparable replacement compost bin, staff, CCCSWA residents, Certified Home Composters, local schools and Contra Costa County Certified Master Gardeners tested four different compost bins for a four month period. When all results were compiled the Soilsaver received the highest marks of recommendation as a replacement.

 

The CCCSWA is now proud to offer residents the Soilsaver at a discount price of $62.00 (includes tax and shipping). Retail price typically runs from $90.00-$130.00.

PLEASE NOTE: Delivery time is 2 - 6 weeks

Some commonly asked questions about the Soilsaver:

  • Made of 0.25 inch thick black recycled plastic
  • Durable construction and design holds heat inside
  • Wide top opening for easy mixing and filling
  • Latching handles and self watering holes on lid
  • 2 sliding bottom access doors
  • Rust free, nylon threaded fasteners
  • 86 gallons = 11.5 cubic feet
  • 25 year limited manufacturer's warranty
  • Easy, tool free assembly
  • Dimensions: 28L x 28W x 30H inches

The CCCSWA pays for shipping and storage fees. For this reason the Soilsaver can only be sold to CCCSWA service area residents living in the following areas:

  • Orinda
  • Moraga
  • Lafayette
  • Walnut Creek
  • Danville
  • Unincorporated Contra Costa County: Alamo, Blackhawk and Diablo
  • San Ramon

To order a Soilsaver, please click here!

Norseman Earth Machine

The Norseman Earth Machine compost bin is a domed shaped bin. Because of its smaller size and profile, the Earth Machine is ideal for smaller yards and gardens! The Earth Machine is designed for the "passive style" of composting, meaning you don't have to turn or agitate the contents on a regular basis.  Over a period of time, usually between 4-10 months, the yard and food waste placed within the Earch Machine will decompose.  As materials break down it moves to the bottom of the bin.  A small door at the base of the Earth Machine allows for the removal of finished compost. 

The Earth Machine is an ideal compost bin for residents who don't want to do the extra work of turning the contents every other week.  The CCCSWA is pleased to offer the Earth Machine compost bin for a discounted price of $39.00 plus sales tax (regular retail price is $70). 

Some commonly asked questions about the Earth Machine:    

  • Dimensions - 33" tall and 30" in diameter at base
  • Capacity - half cubic yard
  • Construction - Heavy duty black, recycled plastic
  • Shipping time - None! The Earth Machine is only available for pickup at the Walnut Creek Recycling Center

Where to Purchase: Purchase the Earth Machine at the Walnut Creek Recycling Center located at 480 Lawrence Way (Cross Street is Parkside Dr.) in downtown Walnut Creek.  The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 to 5:00 pm.  Cash and Personal Checks only - No Credit Cards Accepted. 

 

Wriggly Wranch Worm Compost Bin

Worms convert fruit and vegetable scraps into organic fertilizer for house

and garden plants.

                                                                                                                          

Capacity:       Holds up to 17,000 worms

                     Extra large capacity working trays                                                  

Dimensions:   22” L x 15” W x 25” H (fully assembled)

Assembly:      Snap fit construction, no tools required

Material:        Recycled content plastic

Features:       Patented 2-tier stacking design allows for easy harvesting

                     Spigot to easily dispense liquid fertilizer

 

Click here to order the Wriggly Wranch Worm Compost Bin

 

"Passive" vs "Active" Composting Methods and Composting Bins

 

Which form of composting fits your schedule?  "Passive" composting is adding yard waste to your bin or compost pile and doing little or no maintenance.  The Earth Machine compost bin is designed to be a "Passive style" bin.  Passive composting is very easy to do but will prolong the time to compost to almost a year or longer.  "Active" composting is when you actively maintain your system. This means you will "turn" or mix the compost bin contents to add oxygen and moisture.  The Biostack is designed to be an "Active style" compost bin.  It will usually produce finished compost in six months or less!

 

Advice & Assistance

Needs more help?  Call us at 906-1801 x306 or email your questions to authority@wastediversion.org.