Marilynn Klepfer, a certified UConn Master Composter, will give a slide presentation on the topic of "Composting Basics" at the next meeting of The Garden Club of Newtown, Tuesday, February 23, at 1 pm, at C.H. Booth Library.

Ms Klepfer's presentation will emphasize the importance of composting household and garden wastes not only as a method for producing a useful garden end-product, but as a means of reducing wastes destined for landfills and for protecting our environment. She will cover the general principles of the composting process, biological and chemical components of compost, and appropriate household and garden ingredients.

In addition, she will share ideas on different types of composting structures and selecting the right one for different gardening situations.

Ms Klepfer holds a BS and MS in Secondary Science Education. In addition to her certification as a UConn Master Composter, she is also a UConn Master Gardener.

Ms Klepfer is a provisional member of the Federated Garden Clubs of CT Gardening Consultants Council and was the 2015 CT State Co-Chair of the National Garden Clubs' Gardening Study School.

An avid gardener and lover of landscape design, she feels strongly that nutrient-rich and well-structured soils are the basis for successful and thriving gardens. From the clay-packed soils of Indiana where she developed her love of gardening as a child while assisting her mother and aunt in their rose and vegetable gardens to the rocky, wooded hillside landscape of her Connecticut property, she has learned the importance of nurturing good soil conditions.

Ms Klepfer believes that creating healthy soils is not only an essential component of gardening but is also vital to being a good steward of the land and our environment.

This program on "Composting Basics" will be held in the Olga Knoepke Meeting Room on the first floor of Newtown's library, 25 Main Street. The public is encouraged to attend; there is a guest fee of $5. Registration is not required.

In the event of inclement weather, club meetings and programs are not held if the Newtown Public Schools are closed.

For additional information on this program email marilynn.gardener@yahoo.com or call 203-775-7063.

For further information about The Garden Club of Newtown including its many activities and programs visit gardenclubofnewtown.com or find the club on Facebook.