Support continues for local composting initiative

Mike Lawrence - Staff Writer

Earth Day, April 22, is fast approaching and according to earthday.org, composting is one of many ways people can make a difference for the environment every day of the year. 
Jamie Macleod and Trisha Cordes are the owners/operators of Away We Grow, an off-grid farm located on a small acreage just outside of Sioux Lookout. They are running a weekly compost collection program Tuesdays at the Travel Information Centre parking lot from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Cordes noted that it all stemmed from an interest in living more harmoniously with the land.
As Cordes explained, “With our interest in permaculture, regenerative agriculture and sustainability, we understood that having animals was an important piece of the puzzle for improving our gardens and land.”
Starting with some chickens and rabbits, they slowly began to expand to include cows, sheep, pigs, and a goat, who goes by the name of Lil G.
Their compost program initially involved collecting leaves, which could be used to provide bedding for their animals and also be added to their own compost. After Halloween, pumpkins were also collected and used as livestock feed, as well as also being added to their compost pile. From there the idea of regularly collecting compost from the community just came naturally.
Cordes continued, “We thought Sioux Lookout could use a compost program as we know that other communities have one. Since we have the space, we decided to start our own. There are currently about 10 very active members, and we enjoy interacting with them weekly.” 
Since their compost collection program began last summer, they have expanded into providing limited supplies of fresh lamb, goat and pork, and hope to have vegetables available in the future.
“We are confident that we will have more community involvement,” Cordes added, continuing “It’s our hope that we are raising awareness and that people will continue to compost, with us, or in their own backyards.”
Individuals wishing to learn more about the compost program, or to inquire as to the availability of meats, are encouraged to email awaywegrowfarm@outlook.com for more information.