Frederick County to Launch Organic and Food Waste Composting Program
FREDERICK, Md. – Today Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater and the Division of Solid Waste and Recycling announced that the County is launching a new initiative to allow for expanded composting, including organic and food waste composting.
“Today’s announcement is another step toward creating the Frederick County of tomorrow – one that is environmentally resilient, economically sound, and committed to thoughtful growth,” said County Executive Jessica Fitzwater. “By expanding our composting program, we are not just managing waste differently; we are investing in a cleaner environment, a stronger local economy, and a healthier community for all.”
Frederick County has purchased land that will allow for expanded composting operations to include food waste and other organic materials. This investment will allow the Division of Solid Waste and Recycling to expand, explore, and encourage growth of the Nicholas Hartman Farmstead, off Reichs Ford Road.
Through this new site, the County will:
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Reduce the amount of waste being trucked to the Blue Ridge Landfill, which will extend the life of the existing operational landfill – saving money and preserving space for uses that benefit the community.
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Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by diverting materials that will decompose away from landfills.
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Provide new opportunities and more accessible ways to dispose of food waste.
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Offer long-term flexibility to explore emerging technologies, partnerships, and innovations in waste reduction, processing, and disposal.
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Support future educational opportunities to help residents understand how sustainable waste practices benefit everyone.
Development of the site has not yet begun, but people traveling along Reichs Ford Road may begin seeing more County vehicles and partners in the area. The site is expected to be operational in two to three years.
The composting expansion is tied to goals of the Livable Frederick Master Plan, which calls for food wase composting and innovation in waste management to help build a vibrant, healthy, and sustainable future.
The Frederick County Division of Solid Waste and Recycling provides integrated waste management for the County with waste reduction, recycling, and disposal programs. More information on these and associated events can be found by calling 301-600-2960 and online at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/DSWR.
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CONTACT: Paul Varga
Communications Manager
Division of Solid Waste and Recycling
301-600-2960
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