On Saturday, November 7, Bend families have a chance to give their Halloween pumpkins a second life at the Pumpkin Smash Composting event hosted by Caldera High School. Running from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the free, community‑focused gathering invites residents to bring pumpkins and jack‑o‑lanterns for smashing and composting, diverting the seasonal waste from landfills.
How the event works
Participants arrive at Caldera High School, located at 60925 SE 15th Street, where volunteers provide tools for safely breaking down pumpkins. Organizers ask that all paint, glitter, decorations, candles, and wax be removed before the pumpkins enter the compost stream. This ensures the resulting compost is free of contaminants and safe for use in gardens and public green spaces.
Why composting matters
Composting pumpkins reduces landfill volume, cuts methane emissions, and returns valuable nutrients to the soil. In a region that values stewardship of the land, the event aligns with Bend’s broader sustainability goals and offers a hands‑on lesson in responsible waste management for children and adults alike.
Community involvement
The event is organized by a coalition of local volunteers, school staff, and environmental groups who see the Pumpkin Smash as an opportunity to foster community spirit while promoting eco‑friendly habits. By gathering at a central school location, the organizers make it easy for families from across Bend and surrounding neighborhoods to participate.
What to bring
- Any size pumpkin or jack‑o‑lantern
- Tools for removing decorations (if needed)
- A reusable bag or container for the composted material
Volunteers will assist with the removal of any remaining non‑organic materials and guide participants through the composting process.
Looking ahead
Caldera High School plans to use the resulting compost in its own landscaping projects and to share excess material with local community gardens. Organizers hope the success of this event will inspire similar initiatives in other Central Oregon schools and neighborhoods.
For more information, contact the event coordinators at the school office or visit the Caldera High School website.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
