DECATUR, Ill. — This November, the University of Illinois Extension is offering a fun and environmentally friendly way to dispose of your pumpkins. Join the University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists for the annual Pumpkin Smash, a free pumpkin recycling event aimed at keeping pumpkins out of landfills and reducing environmental harm.

Pumpkin Waste and Its Environmental Impact
Every year, millions of pumpkins are discarded after Halloween, and when sent to landfills, they decompose and release methane—a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Pumpkins also produce excess moisture that can seep into trash piles and pollute nearby water sources. Instead of throwing your pumpkin away, bring it to the Pumpkin Smash to be properly recycled.

Event Details
The event will be held on Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to noon at the site of the old pool in Decatur’s Fairview Park. Before bringing your pumpkin, be sure to remove any candles, ribbons, non-acrylic paint, or other non-organic materials to ensure that your pumpkin can be properly composted.

At the event, a variety of smashing methods will be available, and volunteers will engage attendees of all ages with fun, interactive activities. After the smashing, all pumpkins will be transported to a composting facility, where they will be turned into nutrient-rich compost.

A Growing Tradition
This event is a part of a broader environmental effort spearheaded by SCARCE, an Illinois-based non-profit organization dedicated to sustainability. Since starting in 2014, SCARCE’s Pumpkin Smash program has composted over 1,250 tons of pumpkins, helping to reduce the environmental impact of pumpkin waste.

No Registration Required
The Pumpkin Smash is free to attend, and no pre-registration is necessary. The University of Illinois Extension is also offering reasonable accommodations to those who may need them. For assistance, call 217-877-6042.

Make a Difference This Fall
This event is a great way to make a positive environmental impact this fall while enjoying a fun community activity. By participating in the Pumpkin Smash, you’ll be helping reduce methane emissions and supporting the creation of compost that benefits local gardens and farms.

For more information about this event and other University of Illinois Extension programs, visit extension.illinois.edu.