Municipality of Chatham-Kent has launched a new backyard composter program as part of efforts to reduce organic waste and divert material from local landfills.
The municipality says the program is the first phase of its broader Organic Waste Diversion Program and is designed to encourage residents to manage food scraps and yard waste at home.
Backyard composters are available to Chatham-Kent residents for $20 per unit, including HST.
Composters can be purchased in person at several municipal service centres, including locations in Chatham, Blenheim, Dresden, Ridgetown, Tilbury and Wallaceburg. Residents can also arrange purchases by phone through customer service, with pickup required in person. Quantities are limited and subject to availability.
The municipality says the program follows council approval of the Organic Waste Diversion Program in March 2025.
Future phases are expected to expand waste diversion efforts, including a standardized curbside leaf and yard waste collection program planned for 2027, followed by a depot-based food waste digester pilot in 2028.
Officials say additional details about the program are available through the municipality’s website or by contacting customer service.
