Published on October 22, 2026
AMES, Iowa – Once your jack-o-lanterns and other natural fall decor are starting to decay, resist the urge to toss them in the trash – that would be a nightmare for the Resource Recovery Plant! Instead, take them to the drop-off bin on the north side of the plant at 410 E. Second St.
Food waste and garbage with high moisture content can create challenges for the Resource Recovery Plant. Mushy vegetables like old pumpkins and gourds can contaminate dry garbage and create a frightening mix that must be landfilled.
Decaying pumpkins, gourds, corn, and harvest vegetables will be accepted in special bins on the north side of Resource Recovery through Friday, Dec. 4. Please remove any artificial decorations or candles before dropping pumpkins in the bins.
Last year, 10.55 tons of pumpkins and gourds were processed into compost and kept out of the landfill. If you have pumpkins or organic fall décor after Dec. 4, you can still drop it off in the food waste diversion container at Resource Recovery.
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