Not sure what to do with your pumpkin after Halloween this year? We’ve got the perfect recommendation for you. And the answer is a lot cuter than you might think — check out Pumpkins For Pigs.
What’s Pumpkins For Pigs?
This organization works to reduce food waste by bringing items like pumpkins to farms, sanctuaries, and rescues for feed and compost.
You can donate more than just pumpkins. See the full list here.
History of Pumpkins For Pigs
Founded by Jennifer Seifert in Virginia, this organization has expanded to operate 600+ drop-off sites across 44 US states and Canada. Seifert first launched the idea by partnering with 10 farms and animal sanctuaries, inviting people to drop off their leftover pumpkins for use as animal feed or compost.
Benefits of donating
According to the organization’s website, there are many benefits besides providing food for livestock. Here are just a few:
- Reduces costs for local farms, sanctuaries, and animal rescues by providing free compost material.
- Decreases landfill waste, helping extend the lifespan of existing landfills and lessen environmental impact.
- Strengthens community connections by engaging residents in sustainable, farm-supporting initiatives.
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Let them eat... pumpkins. | Photo via Wikimedia Commons
How you can donate
Where can you donate? Check out this interactive map to find the best donation spot for you.
There are several locations around Tennessee, and one in Knoxville:
Exotic Pet Wonderland
Accepted donations: Pumpkins (uncarved), Gourds, Acorns, Fruits, Vegetables, Straw, Corn Stalks, Evergreen trees (including Christmas trees), Non-Food Items: Kiddie Pools
Drop-off: Please call or text before donating to make arrangements. (They also offer some pick up locally.)
Make sure to check out each farm’s drop-off instructions, as they differ.
Other pumpkin donation options
There are a few other options for your unused gourds around town.
- Green Heron Compost has partnered with 4Them Sanctuary — you can put eligible pumpkins beside or on top of your bin.
- Race Family Farmstead in Lenoir City is accepting donations of jack-o'-lanterns and decorative porch pumpkins (just no paints or arts and crafts) left at the bottom of their driveway under their banner.
- Five Stones Farm in Corryton is accepting paint and wax free pumpkins, straw bales, and corn husks (just look for the pallet area with their sign out front).
Register your own farm
Looking to accept donations at your farm, sanctuary, or rescue? Complete this registration form to get approved by the organization. Once approved, you’ll need to order lawn signs, and then you’re set to accept donations.