We are expanding
Delaware Community Composting Initiative Programing
In January of 2024, we launched Delaware's first community composting site at Talley Day Park. With nearly 2 years under our belt and a successful pilot program, we are ready to help other Delaware communities by expanding community composting in Delaware. With the support of Delaware Solid Waste Authority, we are able to assist communities with community compost program setup with the goal of the sites being managed by the community members.
DCCI Offers:
Our Partners Bring:
Our Partners Bring:
The DCCI program aims to provide the technical assistance, partial funding, and resources to help community partners launch community composting sites. We oversee projects and provide assistance to help the partners produce quality compost.
Our Partners Bring:
Our Partners Bring:
Our Partners Bring:
Our partners provide at least 1manager (liaison), responsible for managing the site and its members on a weekly basis. The partner must have 5+volunteer members ( or be a school) as well as a physical site of approximately 270 square feet, and is at least 5-8ft away from property lines. Additionally, the partner must be committed to the site and project by signing an MOU with DCCI to ensure dedication and maintenance.
Community Composting FAQs
Who can participate in the community composting program?
Any community members that participate in the full training of the program and fulfill other requirements may participate up to the maximum number of people the compost site can accommodate. No person may participate without training unless it is a student under the supervision of a trained teacher.
Who has access to the locks on site?
Only fully trained members and staff have access to the locked bins on site.
How do you keep pests (rats, other vermin) out of the bins?
The compost structure is designed to keep animals out. The entire bin system is outfitted in hardware cloth, lids, and locks to prevent access from rodents and other animals.
How do you keep people from dumping in the bins?
The bins are always locked unless being accessed by members or staff.
Doesn’t compost smell?
Compost doesn’t smell as long as it is done properly. Through training, members learn how to compost appropriately and how to mitigate any issues like odors that may arise.
How do you keep kids and other people from messing around (i.e. climbing) the composting bins?
Our Talley Day Park compost site is directly across from a park and playground. We have not had any issues with people messing around in the 2 years of operation. We believe this is in part due to the community nature of the project. There is a lot of activity. Members coming and going. So the community pays attention. It is also an educational opportunity for youth. When they learn the good that is being done, they are more likely to appreciate it.
Who ensures the site is operating appropriately?
Plastic Free Delaware will be the major organizational partner to lead during planning and construction. We will also be involved indefinitely for technical assistance and quality assurance.
Delaware Dept of Natural Resources & Environmental Control is the operations permit provider and ultimately determines if appropriate operations are being led.
What happens if the site closes?
If the site closes, 1 of 2 scenarios will occur:
- The community group and Plastic Free Delaware will coordinate a full cleanup and removal of the materials on site.
- DNREC will provide cleanup and removal of all materials on site.
APply
If you have done the prerequisites and are ready to apply, CLICK BELOW to apply.
We will announce information sessions sporadically. Send us an email with your interest and we will send you instructions for an information session. You must attend an information session prior to applying. Other prerequisites can be found in the above information and on the application form. If you have any questions, please connect with us!
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