Food scraps drop-off site

Dakota County residents can drop off their food scraps for composting right here in Hastings! It's easy:

• Sign up for the food scraps drop-off program on Dakota County's webpage, by calling 952-891-7557 or emailing foodscraps@co.dakota.mn.us.
• Start collecting! Bag your food scraps using a paper or BPI-certified compostable bag (provided for free at all drop sites). Visit Dakota County's food scraps drop-off webpage for information on what is accepted at the collection site. You will also receive this information in the mail once you sign up for the program.
• Bring your food scraps to any drop site in Dakota County. Hastings' drop site is located at the Dakota County Highway Shop, 900 County Road 47. Don't forget to grab another bag for your next load!

Materials are taken to The Mulch Store in Rosemount to become nutrient-rich compost.

Make your own compost pile

While it cannot accept as many materials as the food scraps drop-off site, many residents choose to deal with their yard waste by converting it to compost right on their own property. A backyard compost bin is easy to make and maintain. Many homeowners build compost bins out of large drums, wood, wire mesh or concrete blocks.

Compost is easy to make. The essential components of compost are organic matter, water, air and nitrogen. To make compost, simply mix organic materials such as leaves, vegetative kitchen waste and garden debris in a compost bin. Visit Dakota County's website to learn more about composting at home.