compostbasics^TM is a small business in Madison, Wisconsin, USA that specializes in low-tech, practical equipment for backyard composting. It was started by an experienced organic gardener, Joan Laurion. She figured out compostbasics^TM OverEasy^TM buckle assembly because she needed a low-tech, hassle free way to make lots of compost without it taking a year or more. She's also does a lot of camping and knows how to sew....which led to her cobbling together side release buckles and nylon webbing for the fasteners. Originally (and still today) she used the buckles to make cylindrical composting units out of a length of welded wire.

For twenty years, Joan also ran a Family Child Care program in her home. The children gardened with Joan and helped make compost. This system allowed the children to see what was going on in the composter and dig for worms underneath whenever they turned the pile.

Friends marveled at her compost fed garden and her simple and effective composting system. Enough of them encouraged her to offer the system for sale that she did. Ms. Laurion now holds United States Patent 6450362 on this easily openable composting system.

People also asked for a plastic version, so she found an award winning aeration design and a manufacturer of 100%post consumer plastic sheeting and 100% recycled tops. The holes are punched in the plastic sheets at a local fabricator in Madison, WI and the buckles are assembled at Gallagher tent, awning and boat cover company, also in Madison, WI.

We don't see any point in running a composting business that isn't environmentally responsible in every way. We only use 100% recycled or post-consumer plastic even though this brings the cost up a bit. We only sell equipment that is super sturdy, practical and actually works. We're dedicated to a safe and organic food supply and know that compost plays a major part in sustaining the soil and growing healthy plants. We want to be part of the movement towards sustainability and respect for the earth, soil and growing things. We hope our products help others join in the movement.

If you have any trouble or questions with your compostbasics'^TM equipment, contact us through this web site, or call (608) 255-1922 so that you can contact us. From experience, we know that you can be very successful at making lots of compost for your garden and we're ready to help.