Compost

In October 2005 Exeter began a small composting operation to collect food scraps from dorm kitchens and faculty residences.  Now in its third year, this composting program has diverted over 2,500 gallons of food scraps from the waste stream.  The food scraps are added to a windrow (a form of composting in which materials are piled into a long line about 3' x 4' x 8') located behind facilities.  Danele Smith, groundsperson and part-time recycling coordinator, manages both the collection of food scraps and maintenance of the windrow.

The program continues to grow, with 29 dorms, 45 faculty members, and several departments on campus now participating.  The Harris Family Children's Center also jumped on the composting wagon, and will start its own vermicomposting system in March 2007.  Students from the Environmental Proctor program are working with staff at the Children's Center to set up the system, develop curriculum based on vermicomposting, and work hands-on with the children to teach them about compost.  Check back for updates!