Williamstown offers several different options for composting. Choose an option that best suits your needs, whether you are a homeowner or renter.

Option 1 – Drop-Off Your Compost

With this option, you’ll collect your compost and bring it to a drop-off location. Check the links for details and pricing on each program.

1. Choose a drop-off program & site 

• Williamstown Transfer Station: Renew your transfer station sticker here. Participants in the composting program have the option of purchasing a 6-gallon EcoCaddy for a one-time fee of $35.
• Wild Soul River: Register with Second Chance Composting here for drop-off at Wild Soul River on Cole Ave.
• Milne Public Library: Sign up here for this limited, free, pilot program operated by Second Chance Composting.

2. Gather food scraps in a bin or bowl 

• A smaller countertop container will help manage odors and fruit flies. Dump scraps into a larger bin or EcoCaddy for transport.
• Williamstown Composts offers the 6-gallon or 1.5-gallon compost container. Contact Barbara Columbus at the DPW for more information.

3. Drop off your compost 

• Empty your food scraps into the designated collection bins for your program’s location. Be sure to check if your drop-off location has restricted hours of operation.

Option 2 – Backyard Composting

1. Read up on the basics of backyard composting from the MA DEP and the EPA. This is an important step if you want to safely create and use your compost! Learn best practices, such as how to avoid rodents or chemical contamination.

2. Choose a type of bin and where to locate it on your property. Bins can be bought or built from scratch. (A few options are described here or here.) Renters should iron out any concerns with the property owner before starting.

3. Collect your food scraps in a covered countertop container. Dump the scraps into your compost bin regularly, or store the container in your freezer to avoid mold. Add dried leaves or a similar “brown” material to your outdoor bin and mix. (Keep a pile of dried leaves and yard waste nearby for this purpose.)

4. Use your finished compost on your lawn or your garden. There is an art to doing this properly—be sure to read up first!

Option 3 – Curbside Pick-Up

1. Contact a food waste hauler regarding services and pricing. Here are a few:

• Second Chance Composting: http://secondchancecomposting.com/
• Tommy’s Compost Services: https://www.tommyscompost.com 
• Bootstrap Compost: https://bootstrapcompost.com/ 
• Casella Waste Management: Call 413-749-6513 and ask about the Williamstown Compost Program.

2. Collect your food scraps in a covered countertop container.

3. Empty this container into the bin provided by your food waste hauler and follow their directions on curbside collection.