Composting is a natural process of recycling nutrients back into the soil to be used again. Compost is a dark, crumbly mixture that is mostly made up of decayed organic matter which reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
One of the most abundant sources of compost is food waste, from uneaten leftovers or spoiled produce.
The EPA estimates about 95 percent of the food we throw away ends up in landfills or combustion facilities. By composting, the amount is reduced.
A total of $200,000 was appropriated in the 2024 Dutchess County Budget to support this program. All local government entities with taxing authority and public K-12 schools within Dutchess County could apply for funding. Applications are due no later than 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 7, 2024.
Application Materials:
2024 Composting Grant Application Instructions & Guidance (.pdf)
Earth Machine Backyard Compost Bins are available for purchase from the Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste Management. For more information on these compost bins see our flyer.
Open to all City of Beacon residents.
Drop-off sites:
Open to community members who purchase a subscription for the service through Community Compost Company.
Drop-off Sites:
Beacon Farmers’
Market413 Main St.
Beacon, NY
Kingston Farmers’ Market
272 Wall St.
Kingston, NY
Welcomes community members to drop off kitchen scraps and organic materials at their Farm Market.
Drop-off Site:
McEnroe Farm Market
5409 Route 22
Millerton, NY 12546
Open to community members who purchase a membership.
Drop-off Site:
148 Pitcher Lane
Red Hook, NY, 12571
Open to the Town of Red Hook residents.
Drop-off Site:
Town Recycling Center
Glen Pond Drive
Red Hook, NY 12571
Town of Saugerties Transfer Station
Open to residents and non-residents of Saugerties with purchase of composting permit.
Drop-off Site:
1765 Route 212
Saugerties, NY 12477
