Did you know? The City of Austin makes its own compost. It’s called Dillo Dirt and it’s made from yard trimmings collected curbside from Austin Resource Recovery customers, combined with treated sewage sludge.

(Don’t worry about the sludge. During the composting process it’s heated to a temperature high enough to eliminate any pathogens.)

Dillo Dirt can be used to improve the soil quality in all different types of gardens, even those that grow food. By adding organic matter to the soil, Dillo Dirt also helps to reduce the need for watering, which is always very important in Central Texas. A list of stores that sell this homegrown Dillo Dirt is available here>>

The City of Austin also has a Dillo Dirt donation program for organizations providing a benefit to the citizens of Austin, including public schools, parks, and nonprofits. If you’re interested in applying for a Dillo Dirt donation, you can send an email todillodirt@austintexas.gov or call 512-972-1954. Please note that the donation minimum is 6 cubic yards. More info>>