The Office of Environmental Stewardship in McKinney is presenting a series of seminars to help landscapes beat the summer heat. Seminars teaching composting, instructing how to build rain barrels and building a firewise landscape are free and open to the public. 

Composting

Saturday, June 16, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at John & Judy Gay Library, 6861 W. Eldorado

Learn how to start composting leaves and grass clippings at home and keep organic waste out of the landfill. The seminar is led by Erin Hoffer, Certified Texas Master Composter with Collin County Master Gardeners. 

Rain Barrels

Saturday, June 16, 1-4 p.m. at John & Judy Gay Library, 6861 W Eldorado

Learn about rainwater harvesting and how to build your very own rain barrel. For only $50 each, class attendees will build a barrel to take home. All supplies are provided by AgriLife Extension. Payment must be made by June 14. Class is led by Dotty Woodson, Dallas AgriLife Extension. 

Firewise Landscaping

Monday, June 18, 7-8:30 p.m. at Fire Station #7, 861 S. Independence

Wildfires threaten people and property across Texas every summer. The idea of a firewise landscape is to reduce potential fuel by using fire-resistant plant materials strategically placed to lessen the chances of wildfire from damaging your home. The class is instructed by Jim and Judy Ewoldsen, Certified Firewise Landscape with Collin County Master Gardeners.     

To register and for more information, visit www.mckinneytexas.org/greenevents or call the Office of Environmental Stewardship at 972-547-7335.

Press release submitted by the City of McKinney