Free or cheap compost material in Portland Oregon?

I'm going to try lasagna composting this fall -- I have a "blank canvas" and need to create a lot of flower beds -- but I dont have much in the way of compost material. Does anyone know of an expensive source of leaves or whatever, I can throw in the compost? I could use tons! thanks

I'm sure anyone would be willing to give you an EXpensive source - but since you need a ton, you might want to retype that - have you checked at your nearest riding stables for well rotted manure - a lot of places will let you load up as much as you want - they generally need to clear the space. Also talk to tree surgeons - particularly if they have chippings with green in it - Most people want 'clean chippings' for paths - composters are happier with the harder to shift 'with green' (leaves) - some tree guys will give you the green and deliver! (I find if you stop and ask when you see them on site they are the most willing to deliver - they just want it off their truck) The other thing is to look for bags of shredded material - call any of the security shredding companies - they too will often let you have material.

Check on Craigslist, too. Or post on Craisglist that you're looking for leaves, compost, etc. I know I've seen postings for everything you'd need. Besides "Free", look in "Farm and Garden" as well.

Oh, and alfalfa pellets are cheap! 50lb for $9.95. They're a good green if you need green. Of course Starbucks is still giving away coffee grounds, too. Worms love those!

The good thing about Portland being so green is that people won't think you're weird, the bad thing is that a lot more are doing the same things, lol!

Post on freecycle.org, too!! I've seen people post that they want a free printer and then have someone volunteer it for them.