HASTINGS — The City of Hastings is once again partnering with Conservation Nebraska on a pumpkin compost collection initiative.
A roll-off dumpster will be placed on the south side of the Aquacourt Water Park parking lot at 2200 W. Third St., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 to collect unwanted pumpkins and gourds following the Thanksgiving holiday.
Conservation Nebraska partnered with SmartSoil in Grand Island to host pumpkin collection sites free of charge. The goal is to deter pumpkins and gourds and some other organic waste from entering the landfill after the holiday season.
SmartSoil will take all the organic waste from the collection sites and use it to create compost.
The pumpkin and gourd collection on Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, comes after the popularity of a similar event in early November in Hastings, following Halloween.
During that first event, 2,520 pounds was collected in Hastings; 1,120 pounds was collected in Grand Island and 20 pounds was collected in Kearney.
However, organizers with Conservation Nebraska believe the demand for pumpkin composting will be even greater at the end of November and beginning of December with the fall holidays complete.
Taiylor Sanders, who is overseeing the pumpkin composting effort for Conservation Nebraska as Americorps Conservation Director, said composting pumpkins is “a simple, yet impactful way to contribute to a healthier environment.”
“By turning our festive decorations into nutrient-rich compost, we can help sustain our local ecosystems by reducing the organic waste entering the landfill,” Sanders said. “I believe that conservation is a responsibility that falls upon all of us, not just an issue for scientists or environmental activists. In my role, I hope to provide the knowledge, resources, and opportunities for all Nebraskans to aid in the preservation of our state for generations to come.”
Organic materials only. Please remove any decorations such as lights, batteries, candles, etc.
No leaves, sticks or other yard waste.
The site will be manned so contents entering the dumpster will be monitored.
