Haverford launches optional curbside compost collection July 13; free starter kits June 14

Haverford Township will offer an optional curbside compost collection program starting Monday, July 13, Township Manager David Berman announced at the June 8 board meeting.

The voluntary program allows any household that receives curbside trash collection to place food scraps, yard waste and other organic materials at the curb in a sealed 5‑gallon bucket on Mondays alongside regular brush collection. "Participation is completely voluntary and it's available to all households that currently receive curbside trash collection services," Berman said. Residents may use any standard bucket with a secure lid; no special container or sign‑up is required.

To help residents get started, the township will host a free compost kickoff and starter‑kit giveaway on Sunday, June 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the township building. The first 2,500 households will receive starter kits and the first 900 will receive an indoor countertop container. Officials emphasized that biodegradable plastic bags are not acceptable because many do not break down in the contracted composting facility.

Collected material will be transported the same day to a permitted composting facility under contract with the township. Township staff said finished compost availability to residents is under consideration and will be evaluated after program rollout.

The announcement follows planning and outreach with local partner Mother Compost; officials said that company will not be put out of business by the program and residents may continue to use private services if they prefer.