Compost Program

SB (Senate Bill) 1383 is a new climate law that aims to reduce methane emissions by reducing the amount of organics (like foodwaste and yard clippings) from being landfilled. To promote development of the compost economy, the law requires that every city, town, and county in California purchase and distribute a certain amount of compost, mulch, or renewable natural gas annually, refered to as “procurement targets.” The procurement quantity for each jurisdiction is based on their population size. This provides a great opportunity to use compost locally to boost biology, build soil structure, and improve infiltration and water holding capacity on San Mateo County farms and ranches.

The RCD pilot program (2022-2023) helped jurisdictions meet procurement targets while providing reduced cost compost to farmers and ranchers. The project is a partnership between all the cities within and the county of San Mateo.

How you can participate

Step 1: Contact Doug Millar to discuss your project. Be ready to talk about if you’ve used compost, acreage, and desired application rate.

Step 2: Submit the completed Compost Program 2026 application to Doug Millar.

Step 3: We schedule the compost delivery with you. 

Step 4: Compost is delivered and spread. 

Funders:

• The program is funded by the County of San Mateo and the Cities and Towns in San Mateo County participating in the CCSP.

RCD Contact: Doug Millar