From backyard bins and household organics programs to large-scale facilities and statewide initiatives, the SMSC Organics Recycling Facility supports all types of composting. Celebrated nationwide each year during the first full week of May, International Compost Awareness Week (ICAW) is the largest and most comprehensive education initiative of the compost industry. This year, ICAW is May 2-8, and we couldn’t be more excited to recognize and celebrate the important and long-term benefits of compost.

Every year, ICAW features a unique theme. This year’s focus is Grow, Eat…COMPOST…Repeat, which represents the circular movement of the organics recycling process—flowing from farm to table to farm again. This circular process turns recycled organic materials into compost, which in turn creates healthy soils, which leads to more nutrient dense fruits and vegetables. The hope is that those scraps are, in turn, composted, and the process starts again.

There are many benefits to both composting and using compost. Compost adds carbon back into the soil, which helps soil retain water and prevents erosion and nutrient leaching. In addition to offering bulk compost and compost blends, the SMSC Organics Recycling Facility sells bagged compost at two nearby SMSC-owned businesses down the road, the Shakopee Dakota Convenience Store and Mazopiya.

We are also excited as we near the launch of a brand-new free household organics drop-off program for Scott County residents. Participating in an organics recycling program helps keep food scraps and other compostable materials out of landfills or incinerator, and instead, is used to replenish the earth. Check back for more details in the days to come!

As good stewards of the earth, we are excited to continue to embrace the mantra of Grow, Eat…COMPOST…Repeat—a theme that can also empower us to recognize and promote the importance of composting and the use of compost in growing healthier food, supporting healthier soils, and ultimately, creating a more sustainable planet for all. During International Compost Awareness Week—May 2-8, 2021—we invite our residential customers to save 10% off their purchase of bulk compost or compost blends here at the SMSC Organics Recycling Facility. Whether it’s planting flowerbeds or reseeding the lawn, we’ve got what your soil needs to thrive this season—see you soon!