Becker County is rolling out a new organics recycling program to help residents and businesses reduce food waste and turn it into compost. The initiative, funded by a $178,000 grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, aims to divert up to 200 tons of organic waste from the garbage stream in its first year.
Residents will soon be able to drop off food waste, including coffee grounds, pizza boxes, and leftovers, at designated recycling areas in Detroit Lakes. Participating households will receive free compostable bags and pails. Schools, restaurants, and grocery stores can use specialized dumpsters and equipment to reduce their waste disposal costs.
Becker County Environmental Services Administrator Steve Skoog says the program is designed to handle waste sustainably by sending collected organics to Glacial Ridge Compost Facility in Hoffman, Minnesota. The initiative could eventually reduce the county’s 22,000-ton annual waste stream by as much as 10%.
The program is expected to begin for businesses this summer, with schools joining in the fall.
Becker County to Launch Food Waste Recycling Program
Jan 27, 2025 | 3:35 AM