Richmond, CA | matt@mattcotton.com

Matthew Cotton has worked in the composting industry since 1986. He has served as a consultant, educator, researcher, and advocate for new and expanded organics recycling and composting programs in California and beyond. Mr. Cotton has completed hundreds of significant organics projects, including permitting and assisting in the development of some of the major composting facilities in California. He has become a trusted resource for some of the largest composters in California, as well as executing projects for CalRecycle, the state’s Department of Resources, Recycling and Recovery. His day to day work includes helping composters plan, site, permit, and troubleshoot large-scale composting facilities.

Session Code: 4B

Track: Business

Session Name: Is Your Facility in Compliance – Multi Site Operator

Session Time: Thursday, February 8, 8:30 – 10:00 AM

Presentation Title: Creating Your Facility Operating Plan

Presentation Description: Veteran compost facility consultant Matt Cotton will share tips and techniques for crafting a written Operating Plan for your facility. We will review the basic elements of an Operating Plan including documenting operating procedures, managing regulatory compliance, minimizing and mitigating site impacts, and managing recordkeeping. The presentation will also cover basic health & safety principles, discuss odor, stormwater, and fire prevention elements of a good operating plan.

Workshop Time: Tuesday, Feb 6, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Workshop Title: Foundations of Composting

Workshop Description: This intensive and interactive one-day training will cover the basic concepts, practices and “how to’s” of commercial compost production. The course will provide a broad foundation for novice compost operators, managers and regulators and will refresh veteran composters on the underlying scientific principles. Subjects will include: Basic principles of composting, process insights, facility design and management, feedstock properties, qualities of compost, odor control,  major processing methods, and an overview of markets for compost. Serves as a review in preparation for the Certified Compost Operations Manager™ test or the Certified Composting Professional™ test.