Expansion of Food Waste Composting Program to Duneland Area: A Partnership with Coffee Creek Farmers Market

Valparaiso, April 2, 2025 – The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County announces the expansion of its successful food waste composting program to the Duneland area, in partnership with the Coffee Creek Farmers Market. This initiative will commence on April 9 and will take place every Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Coffee Creek Farmers Market through October 29th, 2025.

The food waste collected will be composted at the Duneland YMCA Healthy Living Campus, furthering the District’s commitment to waste reduction. This expansion builds on the success of the ongoing collaboration with Valpo Parks, which has already diverted over 8,000 pounds of food waste from landfills.

"We are thrilled to expand our food waste composting program to the Duneland area and partner with the Coffee Creek Farmers Market," said Keri Marrs Barron, Director of the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County. "This initiative not only reduces landfill waste but also enriches our soil and strengthens our community’s environmental stewardship."

Community members are encouraged to bring their food scraps, such as fruit and vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, and eggshells, to the market. Volunteers will be on hand to ensure that the waste is suitable for composting and to provide guidance on composting practices.

The expansion into the Duneland area marks a significant step in our vision of every person in Porter County engaging in an effective waste reduction lifestyle. By working together, we can continue to make a positive impact on our environment and promote a healthier, more sustainable community.

For more information about the food waste composting program or to learn how to participate, please visit PorterCountyRecycling.org or call us at (219) 465-3694.