Garbage & Recycling

Composting

In 1997, the City of Modesto first implemented its integrated composting program. The program includes collecting and processing residential yard waste material from the green cans and pruned refuse from the street collection program. Modesto residents recycle approximately 24,000 tons of yard waste in their green cans and 20,000 tons are collected from the street each year. The material is combined together to make Modesto's own Mo-Gro-Pro, a clean green compost. The compost is sold back to the community in bulk quantities.

Download the complete Recycling Guide and learn about all of Modesto's garbage and recycling programs in one stop!

City of Modesto Compost Facility - Ariel Photo

Compost is an organic soil conditioner created by decomposing organic matter under controlled conditions. Compost improves water-holding capacity, soil structure, porosity and density creating a better plant root environment. Compost supplies a variety of macro and micro-nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and more!

Composting is the process of rapidly decomposing organic matter using aerobic (oxygen-using) microorganisms at high temperatures followed by a more gradual decomposition of any remaining by-products at more moderate temperatures.

Our Process
The compost facility receives approximately 200 tons of community yard waste (grass, leaves, brush and tree trimmings) each day. Yard waste is high in nitrogen and is mixed with chipped branches to add carbon content. After grinding, the chips are placed into rows (windrows) and further processed by watering and turning. The internal row temperatures range from 132 to 150 degrees which kills weed seeds and bacteria. After about three to five months, the result is a humus-like product ready for use.

Certified
The City of Modesto's compost is laboratory tested and certified per standards set by the U.S. Composting Council. Modesto's compost is also listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for use in production of organic food and fiber.   

City of Modesto Compost Facility
7001 Jennings Road - Modesto
(209) 538-2557

Hours of Operation
Monday through Friday
10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Closed for lunch noon-1 p.m.

*Contact the Compost Facility for more information on large volume purchases.

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