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Date: 5/20/2019
AGAWAM – Agawam is currently selling compost bins in an effort to address the needs of residents.
“The Town has been receiving a number of inquiries about the availability of compost bins,” said Tracy DeMaio, Environmental Project coordinator for the Agawam Department of Public Works.
Compost is organic matter, such as food, paper products, and grass clippings, that has decayed into a rich type of soil. It is often used as garden fertilizer and helps to lessen the volume of trash that ends up in landfills.
“Composting is an effective way to help the environment and reduce waste,” stated Mayor William Sapelli in a press release. “We are pleased to offer these compost bins at a reduced rate to the residents of Agawam.” The town is selling the bins for $25, half of the usual price.
“The town has earned ‘Recycling Dividend Funds’ through the Mass DEP Sustainable Materials Recovery Grant Program,” allowing the town to offer the bins for less, said DeMaio.
The style of compost bin being sold to residents is the New Age Composter. Made by New England Plastics Corp., the bins are cylinders with a cone–shaped cover and are constructed of thick, black, recycled plastic, designed to hold in heat and moisture. The company advertises the bins as easy to set up in 10 minutes. Each New Age Composter holds a maximum capacity of 24 cubic feet, with a height of 32 inches. The diameter adjusts to 30 inches, 33 inches, 37 inches, or 41 inches.
“Composting creates healthy soil, reducing or eliminating the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation. It made sense to support the residents looking to make positive changes to their landscaping practices,” DeMaio said.
“At this time we have received 12 compost bin orders,” DeMaio said, although they are accepting orders until May 24. If the program proves to be popular, DeMaio said the town will look into offering them again.
An order form is available on www.agawam.ma.us and the fee can be paid via a check or money order, made out to “Town of Agawam.” The compost bins can be picked up at the Department of Public Works, 1000 Suffield St., on June 12, between 2:30 and 5 p.m. only.
For those interested in knowing more about composting, a free workshop is being offered on May 30, at 7 p.m. at the Agawam Public Library.