Composting is a very simple process. The forest floor proves this point. Why? Nature recycles all this material by composting.

Compost recipe:

• "brown" stuff = leaves and newspaper
• "green" stuff = grass clippings and certain kitchen scraps.

Three parts "green" for every one part "brown" stuff will make the best compost mixture. Don't worry about having exact proportions.

Things to watch for:

• If your compost smells a bit "off" don't panic. Add more "brown" stuff and mix.
• Pests may be a problem if you put things like meat scraps and grease in your bin.

After a year, you'll have about one wheelbarrow of finished compost.

The city also offers curbside composting for $2.95 a month.

If you have composting questions, call Jim Twigg, special projects coordinator at 913/895-6273.

Remember: It is illegal in Overland Park to burn leaves or to blow, rake, or dump them in the street, storm drains or on the sidewalk.