ITHACA, N.Y. –– Halloween is officially over and Tompkins County department of Recycling and Materials Management is reminding residents that their pumpkins can have an afterlife –– as compost!

According to TCRMM, compositing is not only a great way to save on garbage disposal costs –– it can also keep your garbage can clean. In addition to your Jack-O'-Lantern, your compost can also include bread and grains, beans, nuts, eggs, dairy, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, bones and paper towels/napkins.

There are 15 available compost drop of locations in Tompkins County where residents can bring their pumpkins and food scraps to drop off free of charge.