RYLEY, ALBERTA – September 14, 2026 – Claystone is excited to announce the winner of our 2026 Giant Pumpkin Contest. Over the summer, residents across Beaver County rolled up their sleeves and used Claystone’s Category A compost to see who could grow the biggest Atlantic Giant pumpkin.

Taking the top prize this year is Kathleen Anderson from Ryley.

Kathleen has been an avid gardener for years, inspired by her grandmother and aunt, both passionate gardeners. After deciding to replace her vegetable garden with a perennial flower garden, Kathleen spotted the Giant Pumpkin Contest online and was intrigued by the opportunity to grow a pumpkin using Claystone’s Category A compost. With a little curiosity, plenty of compost, and an unusually wet summer, her pumpkin quickly became the star of her backyard.

“I haven’t had much success growing pumpkins in the past, so I didn’t expect this one to turn out the way it did,” said Anderson. “But with Claystone’s compost, lots of rain, and a little patience, it just kept growing. I’m delighted to have won and can’t wait to turn it into pumpkin pie!“

Kathleen Anderson of Ryley, Alberta, pictured with her prize-winning pumpkin.

The Giant Pumpkin Contest is a fun, family-friendly activity designed to celebrate local pride while teaching the community about the benefits of using good compost for healthier soil and stronger plant growth.

“At Claystone, we’re proud to support activities that bring communities together,” said Corey Popick, CEO of Claystone. “The Giant Pumpkin Contest gives residents an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of composting, spend time outdoors with family and friends, and take part in a fun local tradition. It’s a great example of how small initiatives can create positive experiences and strengthen community connections.“

A Special “Small but Mighty” Runner-Up

Growing giant pumpkins takes skill, patience, and plenty of sunshine. This year, Mother Nature had other plans. While challenging conditions made it difficult to produce record-breaking pumpkins, participants embraced the spirit of the contest and helped make the program a success.

This year’s runner-up and recipient of Claystone’s “Small but Mighty” recognition is Deanna Klassen of Ryley. Having gardened for much of her life and spent years growing and preserving food for her family, Klassen entered the contest as a fun new challenge. While her pumpkin may have missed the “giant” memo, her enthusiasm certainly did not.

“I was in absolute shock because it’s so little, it forgot the giant part,” said Klassen. “It’s been fun watching it try to grow, and I’m thrilled to be recognized as this year’s Small but Mighty runner-up.“

Deanna Klassen of Ryley, Alberta, pictured with her “Small but Mighty” pumpkin.

“Mother Nature clearly didn’t get the memo that this was a giant pumpkin contest, but we’re proud of every participant who gave it a go,” Popick added. “Not every pumpkin became a giant this year, but the community spirit certainly was.”

Whether they grew a massive gourd or something a little smaller, participants learned new skills, enjoyed some friendly competition, and connected with their community. At Claystone, we believe success isn’t measured only in inches and pounds, but also in the memories and stories created along the way.

To learn more about Claystone’s community programs and how we work to be a good neighbor in Beaver County, please visit: https://claystonewaste.com/about-us/community-involvement/.

To learn more about Claystone’s Giant Pumpkin Contest, visit: https://claystonewaste.com/about-us/community-involvement/pumpkin/

About Claystone: Claystone is a municipally owned waste management company based in Ryley, Alberta. We provide safe and reliable waste disposal, composting, and recycling services for communities and businesses across the region. Because we are locally operated, we are deeply invested in the future of Beaver County. We proudly reinvest in the communities we serve through job creation, sustainable operations, and local initiatives like our Community Grants Program. To learn more, visit: https://claystonewaste.com/.

Media Contact: Kady McKinney, Community Relations Coordinator at Claystone; kady.mckinney@claystonewaste.com or 780-663-2038 ext 160.