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Chatham County to Host Fun and Interactive Events for International Compost Awareness Week
Chatham County Solid Waste & Recycling will host several events with community partners that are all focused on fun, hands-on learning, and community connection centered around composting, healthy soils, and sustainability.
• Leaf Litter Critter Lab (Children)
When: Monday, May 4, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Where: Goldston Public Library (9235 Pittsboro-Goldston Road, Goldston, NC 27252)
What: Youth participants will explore the tiny organisms that help break down leaves. The session includes a story and hands-on investigation of real leaf litter.
• Composting Storytime: Wonderful Worms (Children)
When: Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 11:00 to 11:45 a.m.
Where: Wren Memorial Library (500 N 2nd Avenue, Siler City, NC 27344)
What: Youth participants will enjoy a worm-themed story time, a fun craft, and a chance to observe real worms up close.
• Common Composting Conundrums and How to Troubleshoot Them (All Ages)
When: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Chatham Community Library (197 NC Hwy 87 N, Pittsboro, NC 27312)
What: Learn practical solutions to common composting challenges, including backyard and vermicomposting tips, plus local resources.
• Sustainable Spirits & Plant Swap (All Ages)
When: Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Plant (220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro, NC 27312)
What: Sustainable Spirits are rotating events throughout the state and are organized by the North Carolina Composting Council. These casual networking events bring together others who are passionate about sustainability, composting, healthy soils, and climate resilience.
Attendees can also participate in a plant swap, with some donated plants from The Plant’s own Rachel’s Native Plants nursery. Free appetizers will also be available, thanks to the support of McGill Environmental Systems. Those interested in attending this free event are encouraged to RSVP at the following link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/may-2026-sustainable-spirits-and-plant-swap-the-plant-in-pittsboro.
"I am very excited for this event, and extremely grateful for Chatham County's tremendous support and leadership," said Kat Polk, Executive Director of North Carolina Composting Council in regard to the partnership for a Sustainable Spirits event in Pittsboro.
• Webinar: Learn About Local Composting (All Ages)
When: Friday, May 8, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Where: Virtual (Zoom link below)
What: Attendees will hear from a panel of local composters working to improve soil health and advance regenerative practices in the Chatham community. This webinar will be moderated by Anayancy Estacio, with Chatham County Solid Waste & Recycling. Speakers will be Pam Watrous (Master Gardener), Amy Brooks (Brooks Composting), and Shannon Culpepper (Food Waste Drop-off Program with Chatham County). Individuals can register for the event at: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/VM5V7eBgSfC4TEKK8D34Sw. A recording may be made available following the event.
The winner of the FREE backyard compost bin and kitchen collector, courtesy of Chatham County Solid Waste & Recycling, will be announced during Friday’s webinar and contacted privately.
Information about these events and composting in Chatham County can be found at www.chathamcountync.gov/composting. Individuals with questions may contact Anayancy Estacio, Education Program Coordinator, at anayancy.estacio@chathamcountync.gov or 919- 542-5516.