Using Compost in Kitsap County Projects

Using compost in county projects

Kitsap County uses compost in a variety of projects and complies with the compost purchasing requirements of RCW 43.19A. In 2023, we passed Ordinance 618 to address the purchasing of compost for the following county projects:
  • Landscaping projects.

  • Construction and post-construction soil amendments.

  • Applications to prevent erosion, filter stormwater runoff, promote vegetation growth, or improve the stability and longevity of roadways.

  • Low-impact development and green infrastructure to filter pollutants or keep water on-site; or both.


Annual compost purchasing data

2024: Kitsap County bought 58.67 tons of compost for $1,970 from a local compost facility.


Benefits of compost

There are many benefits to using locally-made compost, including:
  • It adds nutrients to soil that plants need.

  • It improves soil structure, which can prevent erosion and water runoff.

  • It can trap pollution in place, keeping it out of local waterways.

  • It stores carbon, which helps climate change.

  • It's produced by local businesses, which supports the local economy.