Americans are expected to spend approximately $9.1 billion on Halloween related goods this year, according to CNBC. As a society, we also tend to throw away decorations after the fall season – especially when it comes to pumpkins. In light of this, Reverse Litter encourages Texas families reuse their pumpkins and make your investments worthwhile! Below are five ways you can reuse your pumpkins this season.
1. Eat Your Pumpkin
Eating your pumpkin is probably the most satisfying way of reusing your pumpkins. There are a lot of treats you can make with pumpkins, including pumpkin pie, puree, risotto, and some people even opt to make cocktails. The Penny Hoarder has many creative ways you can use pumpkins in your home. Let us know if you make a snack, and be sure to share it with us.
2. Pumpkin-Cano Science Experiment
Whether you want to try this with your class, or at home with the kids, this is a fun science project for children of all ages. This site shows you how to make a pumpkin volcano with baking soda, food coloring, vinegar, dish soap and water. Kids will be amazed. If you try it, share it with us!
3. Feed it to the Animals
While you may not have a use for a pumpkin, some of our wildlife may benefit from its nutrients. Consider turning your pumpkin into a bird feeder or simply feed it to some farm pigs or other farm animals. You can also call your local Zoo and see if they take them to feed their animals. As a reminder, make sure there’s nothing artificial about your pumpkin – no decorations, glitter or paint.
3. Feed it to the Animals
While you may not have a use for a pumpkin, some of our wildlife may benefit from its nutrients. Consider turning your pumpkin into a bird feeder or simply feed it to some farm pigs or other farm animals. You can also call your local Zoo and see if they take them to feed their animals. As a reminder, make sure there’s nothing artificial about your pumpkin – no decorations, glitter or paint.
5. Compost Your Pumpkin
If none of the above ideas appeal to you, you can always cut it into smaller pieces and throw it in the compost pile. Then, you can mix it into your soil next spring.
If you try any of these ideas, please be sure to share your image with us on social media by using #ReverseLitter. We can’t wait to see what you do with your pumpkins!
Operation Beautification Dallas
Show Us Your Spooky Spirit and YOU Could Win Our Giveaway!
As you start to plan your Halloween costume or decorations, Reverse Litter encourages you to consider eco-friendly ways to show off your spooky spirit! This season, we are giving away Reverse Litter swag to the top three contestants who make their own costume or décor with items they already have at home, or with reusable items. When you make your spooky design, be sure to take a picture and post it on social media using #TenonTuesContest.
The Reverse Litter team will randomly select the top three winners and announce it via social media on Friday, Nov. 3.
In order to participate and qualify for the giveaway, you must post your image with #TenonTuesContest between now and Wednesday, Nov. 1. You also must be following @reverselitter and also be sure to tag your friends on the initial post on Facebook or Instagram.
We can’t wait to see what you come up with!\
Upcoming Community Events
Dallas
What: The City of Dallas invites residents, family, community groups, faith organizations, schools, and businesses to register for this Citywide cleaning spree. A fun, low-cost activity for neighbors of all ages to come together and promote neighborhood pride as well as a cleaner more vibrant community/neighborhood.
There is no cost for trash collection.
Registration is now open. The registration process has been made easier for your convenience. You can register by calling 311, or emailingdallas311@dallascityhall.com. For more information, call 214-671-8873.
Where: Citywide Community Cleanup in Dallas.
When: Saturday, Oct. 28.
What: The Wild About Composting event is a FREE seminar for Dallas residents wishing to learn about the benefits and uses of compost and Vermicompost, proper soil treatment, the usage of organic material and more. For more information, visit the Dallas Zero Waste Facebook page.
Where: Dallas Zoo. 650 S. R.L. Thornton Fwy. Dallas, TX.
When: Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
What: The Turtle Creek Association (TCA) is looking for volunteers to help keep Turtle Creek beautiful and litter-free. TCA provides trash bags and pickers. They ask volunteers to wear proper no-slip shoes (hiking boots ideal) and gloves. This event will be canceled if it rains. For more information, contact Clarke via e-mail.
Where: On Hall St. at the Katy Trail (at the foot of the Beasley Steps)
Fort Worth
Crud Cruiser
What: Crud Cruiser mobile collection trailers travel to neighborhoods to collect household hazardous waste. Proof of residency (current water bill, valid driver’s license) and avoucher if required by your city are necessary.
Where: Crud Cruiser will be available at predetermined locations in multiple cities.
Visit the city of Fort Worth’s website for more information.
When: Now through November.
America Recycles Day (also known as Shred Day)
What: Residents of Fort Worth and unincorporated Tarrant County, along with members of your Better Business Bureau can bring up to five boxes of personal documents to be securely shredded. (Boxes should weigh no more than 40 lbs. each). Also accepting electronics, small appliances, household items, furniture and clothing. NO appliances with freon, please. For more information, visit their Facebook event.
Where: LaGrave Field. 301 NE 6th St. Fort Worth, TX.
When: Saturday, Nov. 4, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
What: The City of Fort Worth is hosting a take back medications day at four different locations in Fort Worth. For more information on what is accepted and where it will be taking place, visit their Facebook event. For more information on year round disposal sites visit www.meddropbox.org
Where: Four different locations in Fort Worth.