Washtenaw County food scrap drop-off program expands to Dexter and Salem Township

The Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office is expanding its Food Scrap Drop-off Pilot Program to serve Dexter and Salem Township. 

Food scraps collected through the program are composted rather than sent to a landfill. Designed to save residents money, reduce waste, and protect the environment, the initiative has already seen early success in Ypsilanti. It launched there in November and now serves more than 100 households. County staff anticipate that the program could divert 30,000-45,000 pounds of food waste from landfills in its first six months.

“Everyone who is participating is opting in, and generally very excited to participate. In our intake survey, 80% of residents reported using trash as a way that they dispose of food scraps,” says Theo Eggermont, public works director for the Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office. “We provide a list of what is accepted and generally people are doing a great job following that list.”

County leaders emphasize that food represents about one-quarter of what residents throw away. As grocery prices rise, wasted food has become a growing concern. According to the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC), a family of four throws away roughly $1,800 worth of food each year, impacting both household budgets and the environment.

When food scraps are sent to landfills, they break down and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Composting offers an alternative by diverting food waste and turning it into nutrient-rich soil that residents can use to grow food.

The food scrap drop-off program is supported by a $10,000 grant from Closed Loop Partners, the Biodegradable Products Institute, and the US Composting Council. Residents who complete an interest form receive drop-off details, guidelines, and a free countertop bin.

The expansion coincides with International Compost Awareness Week on May 3-9, when communities highlight the importance of composting. Eggermont says he hopes to see the program continue to expand to other Washtenaw County communities.

To express interest in joining the program, you can fill out the Food Scraps Interest Form. More information about the program can be found at washtenaw.org/compost.