Don't trash pumpkins, compost them at West Chicago church Nov. 6

Remind relatives, neighbors, and friends not to throw pumpkins in the trash, but to compost them in the Pumpkin Smash from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 6, at First United Methodist Church, 643 E. Washington St. in West Chicago.

Last year, 4.94 tons of pumpkins were collected, nearly filling the collection receptacle stationed at the First United Methodist Church of West Chicago parking lot, to its capacity.

The pumpkin composting event was hugely successful in diverting pumpkins from landfills, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions and returning the nutrient rich fruit back to the earth where they were grown.

This year, organizers hope to surpass that tonnage as more and more residents are becoming aware of the environmental benefits of pumpkin composting.

The West Chicago Environmental Commission, the Green Disciples of the FUMC, and SCARCE have teamed up to make it as easy as driving up and pitching their jack-o'-lanterns into the large collection dumpster that will be stationed at the church parking lot.

Volunteers will be on hand, and everyone should wear a mask.

Pumpkins can be painted, but need to be free of yarn and other items that are not compostable. All candle holders need to be removed prior to composting.

Most of the pumpkins processed in the United States are grown in Illinois. Composting pumpkins will keep the water and nutrients here where they are grown.