Not sure what to do with your pumpkin after Halloween this year? We’ve got the perfect recommendation for you, and the answer is a lot cuter than you might think. Check out Pumpkins For Pigs.
What is Pumpkins For Pigs?
This organization works to reduce food waste by bringing items like pumpkins to farms, sanctuaries, and rescues for feed and compost.
You can donate more than just pumpkins. See the full list here.
Founded by Jennifer Seifert in Loudoun County, VA, this organization has expanded to operate 600+ drop-off sites across 44 US states and Canada. Seifert first launched the idea by partnering with 10 farms and animal sanctuaries, inviting people to drop off their leftover pumpkins for use as animal feed or compost.
Benefits of donating
According to the organization’s website, there are many benefits besides providing food for livestock. Here are just a few:
- Reduces costs for local farms, sanctuaries, and animal rescues by providing free compost material
- Decreases landfill waste, which helps extend the lifespan of existing landfills and lessen environmental impact
- Strengthens community connections by engaging residents in sustainable, farm-friendly initiatives
Let them eat... pumpkins. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
How to donate
To see where you can donate, check out this interactive map to find the best donation spot for you.
Here are a couple of spots relevant to Richmond:
Reidy’s Pond Farm | 15305 Rockford Rd., Montpelier (local pick-up available at Belmont Butchery, 15 N. Belmont Ave.)
Accepted donations: Pumpkins, gourds, acorns, and locally grown Christmas trees
Drop-off: Leave donations in the yard at the top of the driveway. Do not put donations over the fences yourself.
Studley Farms | 9471 Studley Farms Dr., Mechanicsville
Accepted donations: Pumpkins (uncarved), Pumpkins (carved), gourds, acorns, fruits, vegetables, bread, pastries, brewer’s grains, hay, straw, corn stalks, evergreen trees (including Christmas trees)
Drop-off: Call or text (804) 501-8515 to make arrangements.
Register your own farm
If you want to receive donations at your farm, sanctuary, or rescue, complete this registration form for approval first. Once approved, you’ll need to order lawn signs; then wait for the pumpkin to come rolling in.
