Somersworth, NH - The Somersworth School District's composting program has been making strides since 2016, when a group of sixth-grade science students at Somersworth Middle School discovered that composting was the best way to reduce waste. Since then, the program has grown to include composting contracts at both Somersworth Middle School and Maple Wood Elementary School.

The program has been funded in part by the NH Farm to School fund, which has also supported the development of school gardens, improved local food access, and increased sustainability efforts. To keep the program moving forward, the district has received two USDA Farm to School grants totaling nearly $150,000.

However, the program is seeking additional funding to expand its composting efforts and continue to promote sustainability within the Somersworth community. The program currently contracts with Mr. Fox Composting of York, ME, the only compost contractor that serves the Rockingham/ Strafford Co. area, to provide composting services to the schools and the community.

The Somersworth School District composting program has already made a significant impact on the community by reducing waste and promoting sustainability. With additional funding, the program hopes to expand its efforts and continue to make a difference in the lives of students and the community.

Anyone interested in donating to the compost programs, and being one of the community partners, please contact:

Wendy Berkeley

Somersworth Farm to School Coordinator

wberkeley@sau56.org