Cornell Cooperative Extension

Schenectady County
Recycling Education
Image by Holly Boname
Master composter volunteer (right) shows contents of worm composting bin to Nathalie Smallidge, Stephanie Terwilliger, Annie Seichepin & Adelaide Smallidge at Farm City Day 2005
Image by Sandy Repp
Master Composter display booth
MCR Program

Master Composters/Recyclers

*The application period for the 2022 MCR Program has closed*

Who are Master Composters/Recyclers?

Master Composters/Recyclers are a network of trained volunteers who work in partnership with the Cornell Cooperative Extension office to help educate the local public about the importance of recycling and composting. MCRs extend the reach of the community programming offered by CCE.

Who Can Become a Master Composter/Recycler?

Anyone with an interest in volunteering can become a Master Composter/Recycler. The only requirements are willingness to gain and share new knowledge about composting and recycling, and an interest in volunteering time and enthusiasm as part of a collaborative team.

Master Composters/Recyclers are usually people who already have some knowledge about recycling and/or composting and would like to gain leadership experience by sharing their knowledge with others. Master Composters/Recyclers come from many different backgrounds and are united by their enthusiasm for improving our environment and community.

View Photo Journal

Contact

Khila Pecoraro
Recycling and Composting Educator
schenectadyrecycles@cornell.edu
(518) 598-2296

Last updated June 16, 2022

Composting and Recycling

Through training sessions and workshops, you will become a more knowledgeable steward for environmental science and sustainability and acquire a deeper understanding of the art and science of composting. Being a Master Composter/Master Recycler is an excellent experience for your professional resume, especially if you pursuing a career in an environmental science related field.

Through volunteering and public speaking, you will gain valuable leadership experience that will assist you in developing your professional skills and abilities. Being a Master Composter/Master Recycler is a great way to help you reach your goals of improving your interpersonal skills.

In addition, you can find personal satisfaction in serving your community, while extending the goals of Schenectady County to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. An added benefit to waste reduction, educating people about composting has additional benefits in terms of helping households reduce costs and improve local soil and water quality.

And volunteering can be fun! You will also have endless opportunities to make new friends with similar interests and talents, and work to make Schenectady County communities more environmentally sustainable neighborhoods.

Testimonials

"The CCE Program to foster and develop Master Composters and Master Recyclers is a wonderful example of community development to promote a better word. Individuals who can encourage and inspire others are so needed; this program is part of the solution to our solid waste issues."

-Lori S.  Class of 2017 

"I believed myself to be well-versed in composting and recycling practices before the class. Upon studying and hearing experts talk about their work, I find myself more prepared to teach and share this knowledge with people of all ages."

- Sonia S. Class of 2017

"This is an excellent opportunity to learn and grow in a supportive and friendly atmosphere."

-Maggie B. Class of 2017

"A wonderful program and a joy to be in this class!" 

​How Do I Become a Master Composter/Recycler?

Application: Complete our Volunteer Application, indicate your interest in the Master Composter/Recycler program, and return it to the CCE, SC office along with a signed copy of the MC/R Volunteer Description. Cornell staff will review your qualifications and professional references, and contact you to schedule an interview.

Training: Trainees will receive approximately 20 hours of course instruction in the form of eight sessions and two fieldtrips. Training sessions cover a wide variety of topics related to environmental science and technology, the benefits, uses, and methods of composting, recycling, waste reduction, pollution prevention, as well as professional development skills related to being an informal community educator.

Membership Fee: There is a one-time fee of $80 that helps cover the costs of teaching materials and other expenses associated with the training program. A limited number of scholarships are available.

What Does A Master Composter/Recycler Do?

Upon completion of the training program, Master Composters/Recyclers are asked to share their training with the community in the form of 30 hours of volunteer work with Schenectady County Recycles/Cornell Cooperative Extension within Schenectady County. These hours can be spread out over a one year period, and volunteers work closely with their volunteer coordinator to choose the events or activities they'd like to contribute to. Independent projects may also be considered toward service hours, but must be approved by the volunteer coordinator.

Example Activities for Master Composter/Recycler Volunteers:

  • Answer questions about what & where to recycle, donate, and dispose of various items
  • Assist with teaching classes that are open to the public
  • Help with giving demonstrations to youth groups and community organizations
  • Put together exhibits and educational displays for special events
  • Offer support to improve recycling programs for special events, schools, apartment complexes, etc.
  • Answer questions and offer technical assistance/advice related to backyard composting
  • Write articles to contribute to a monthly e-magazine
  • Attend Master Composter/Recycler meetings
  • Help develop special events in Schenectady County to celebrate America Recycles Day and Earth Day

And much more!