Community Compost Program Returns For Second Year

SARATOGA SPRINGS — Pitney Meadows Community Farm, in partnership with Sustainable Saratoga, recently announced the return of the Saratoga Springs Community Compost Program for a second season.

What began as a resident-supported initiative through Saratoga Springs’ Participatory Budgeting process has grown into an example of community-led climate action, following a successful pilot year. Registration is now open for the 2026 season, welcoming up to 150 households into a shared, hands-on effort to reduce waste, restore soil, and strengthen the local food system.

In its first season, the Saratoga Springs Community Compost Program served 107 households (equivalent to 268 community members) and diverted more than five tons (over 10,000 pounds) of food scraps from the landfill.

That compost is used directly on Pitney Meadows’ Community Garden and agricultural fields, where food is grown for public programming, local families, food pantries, senior centers, and shelters, creating a closed-loop system that connects daily household habits to tangible community outcomes.

More than 160 people expressed interest in the 2025 pilot program, exceeding the program’s initial capacity. Multiple onboarding phases welcomed new participants, each including required compost training, system tours, and educational sessions.

Throughout the season, the program extended beyond food scrap collection. Educational offerings included a backyard composting workshop, school and student tours, professional development visits, tabling at community events, and the creation of a public-facing educational video about this program. The season concluded with a community Pumpkin Smash, a hands-on event designed to divert seasonal waste while inviting families to engage directly with the composting process.

Based on participant feedback and operational success, the 2026 program includes: 

• Expanded capacity: Up to 150 households

•Extended season: mid-April to mid-November

• Home food scrap collection bin provided to every household 

• Expanded accepted materials: Meat and dairy now included

• Flexible drop-off hours: Tuesday–Saturday, dawn to dusk

• Annual registration fee: $80 per household

• Free scholarships available to ensure accessibility

• Participation is open to all, regardless of city residency 

All participants are required to attend a compost training at the start of the season, covering accepted materials, home collection tips, and the environmental impact of composting.

Registration for the 2026 Saratoga Springs Community Compost Program is now open and will remain available until all 150 spots are filled.