Don't trash your pumpkins. Give them a better sendoff at Springfield's Pumpkin Smash event
With the end of October in sight, the jack-o'-lanterns and pumpkins adorning Queen City doorsteps may start to wrinkle and spoil. Rather than throwing the gourds in the trash, the City of Springfield Environmental Services is bringing back its Pumpkin Smash event to give residents a sustainable — and fun — option for pumpkin disposal.
Whether with a sledgehammer or a drop from a firetruck ladder, those in attendance will be able to pick their pumpkin's own final adventure. According to a press release, activities will include pumpkin bowling and a chance to win a prize for those who throw their pumpkin the furthest. The "sky drop pumpkin lift" will be available 9:30-11:00 a.m. courtesy of the Springfield Fire Department.
The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Yardwaste Recycling Center at 3790 S. Farm Road 119. There is no limit to the number of pumpkins or gourds residents can bring, though smashing is "at your own risk." This will be only the second of event of its kind. The pumpkin smash made its debut in 2019 but has been on hiatus since due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The smash provides a more sustainable way of pumpkin disposal. Ashley Krug, sustainability and market development coordinator for the city, said gourds put in the trash will end up in the landfill and take years to fully break down.
"If you’re not going to turn it into a pie, drop it off at one of our recycling centers or come give it a smash!" Krug said in the release.
She told the News-Leader that more organic waste overall has made its way to the landfills. This is particularly problematic as food and other organic waste generate a lot of methane that contributes to greenhouse gases.
More: Don't trash your food waste. Springfield promotes food scrap recycling in pilot program
While called the Pumpkin Smash, Krug said all organic fall ornaments are welcome to be disposed of sustainably. Pumpkins and other organic fall decorations, including hay bales and cornstalks, are accepted at all three of the city's recycling centers. All organic waste is processed and turned into compost which is then available for purchase. The event will also provide information and opportunity for those interested to sign up for the city's pilot food waste recycling program.
Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Contact her with tips at mmieze@news-leader.com.
This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Pumpkin Smash provides fun, sustainable way to get rid of gourds
