Deborah,
Another tip to semi~go along with yours is..
You can keep sawdust and/or woodchips in a 5 gallon bucket like *with some holes in the bottom* next to the compost bins/piles....
That way they are left out into the elements..
*ie: rain, sun, etc.* and starts to break down in the bucket... then when you need it, it's already started the breaking down process...
*but it does take a longer time to break down that kind of stuff.. but to leave it out, starts the process earlier so it doesn't take it as long in the bin*
I also take out my compost early sometimes when I need the bins to reload.. and put that stuff into a garbage bag to finish up in there and keep it in my basement.. so, it doesn't freeze solid over the winter...
That helps alot to get a jump on
spring sifting for my
seed starting mixes...