As part of the Compost Awareness Week, Claystone decided to kick things up a notch by holding a Giant Pumpkin Growing Contest for local residents who pick up some free compost from the Ryley Transfer Station.
“The Compost Council of Canada holds an annual giant pumpkin contest as part of Compost Awareness Week, and we thought this could be a fun way to celebrate Claystone Compost,” said Corey Popick, Chief Executive Officer. “We produce high-quality compost at Claystone that can be used for a variety of purposes, including vegetable gardens. What better way to show this off than by growing giant pumpkins!”
Popick also reminds residents that compost is not a replacement for topsoil but is an enhancement that provides important nutrients, particularly for depleted soil. Compost should always be used at a minimum ratio of four parts soil to one part compost.
Residents who collect compost from the Ryley Transfer Station at the landfill site starting Monday, May 5, can request a pumpkin seed pack and brochure from the Scale House Attendant. The brochure includes contest rules and an entry form. Anyone interested in participating must submit their completed entry form no later that May 30, 2025.
Claystone is offering cash prizes to the top three largest pumpkins:
- First prize: $300
- Second prize: $200
- Third prize: $100
Rather than weighing the pumpkins, the winners will be determined through measuring the length and circumference of the pumpkin.
“Traditionally, giant pumpkin contests include weighing of the pumpkins, but this can get quite complicated,” said Popick. “As part of the contest, we are asking participants to share progress photos of their pumpkin, along with measurements. During the final week, we will come out to measure the largest of the pumpkins to determine the winners.”
The contest is limited to 100 participants. Winners will be announced October 5, 2025. Full contest rules are available on the Claystone website at claystonewaste.com/pumpkin.
Media contact for further information:
Jackie Sargent
Communication and Public Relations Advisor
jackie.sargent@claystonewaste.com
