The City of Bryan is hosting five free “green living” workshops, open to all Brazos Valley residents, beginning Aug. 24.

On Aug. 24, the topic is “Rainwater Harvesting 101.” Rain barrels are a great way to capture the pure rain water that garden plants prefer, free of salts and other additives found in tap water. This workshop is designed to educate participants on the benefits of rainwater harvesting and the how-to of creating and using a rain barrel.

On Sept. 5, participants will learn about “Worm Composting 101.” Have you always wanted to compost but do not have a back yard? Do you want to produce your own “black gold”? This workshop will help you get on the road to making both realistic, and in your own home! Come play in the dirt!

On Oct. 5, the class will be on “Greening Your Home 101.” Learn the simple ways to make your home energy and water efficient while eliminating toxins and drastically improving indoor air quality. The workshop will cover a DIY cleaning product demo, lecture and take home supplies.

On Nov. 5, the topic is “Home Energy Efficiency 101.” Experts presenting this workshop will give you the know-how to conduct a home energy audit, read your utility bill and cash in on BTU’s amazing rebates and loans!

The Dec. 1 class is “Green Living 101.” This is a popular time to rethink old habits, so why not rethink some of those habits you have that aren’t so good for the environment? This workshop will present reasonably simple and local things you can do to have less of an impact and live greener in 2010.

All workshops will be held on the second floor of the Bryan Public Library, 201 E. 26th St., from 7 to 8 p.m. Registration is required, and there is a limit of 40 participants per class.

For more information or to register for a class, call Sustainability Coordinator Mary Strauss at (979) 209-5900 or visit www.begreeninbryan.com.