Monroe County, in partnership with SoilMate Composting and sponsored by Baptist Health South Florida, is extending its Upper Keys Food Waste Collection Pilot through Feb. 27, thanks to a donation from a local resident.
The pilot project allows residents to divert food scraps from landfills and turn them into nutrient-rich compost. The extension provides additional weeks for participants to drop off food waste at designated sites, as Monroe County evaluates long-term options to reduce landfill use and help address South Florida’s regional trash challenges.
Residents must register to participate and may drop off food waste free at any of the following Upper Keys locations:
• Ocean Studies Charter School – 11-27 Rock Harbor Drive, Key Largo (behind playground).
• Atlantic Trash and Transfer – 300 Atlantic Drive, Key Largo.
• Coral Isles Church – 90001 Overseas Highway, Tavernier (behind fellowship hall).
Biodegradable bags are available at all locations. Only food scraps will be accepted; no yard waste, paper products, unapproved compostable bags, or plastics should be placed in the bin.
“This program gives residents a simple, convenient way to be part of a solution,” said Melody Tuschel, Monroe County recycling coordinator. “Every pound of food waste diverted is one less pound ending up in the landfill.”Residents can register at your-soilmate.com/pages/monroe. After attending a brief education session, an access code is provided for the dropoff sites.
