Organics & Food Waste in Schools

​Schools can prevent wasted food and donate surplus edible food to others. Leftover food scraps can get a new life as compost or animal feed.

Most schools are required to collect food scraps in back-of-house (non-public areas). Schools have several options depending on the type of food waste that is generated.

Prevent wasted food or donate surplus food

Even small efforts to address wasted food in schools can make a big difference. Dakota County has resources to help schools prevent wasted food.

Collect food scraps for composting

Have your food scraps turned into valuable compost. Learn how to start or improve organics collection.

Manag​e yard waste

By state law, it's illegal to put yard waste in the trash, such as grass clippings, leaves and branches. Find out how to properly manage yard waste at your school.​

Request fr​​ee compost

Schools that have participated in our school grant program can request free delivery of compost (including compost-soil mixtures) once per school year. It can be used in vegetable and flower gardens, potted plants, turf or grass repair, and more.

We encourage using compost soils ​as an educational tool to help students understand the benefits of compost.

To request free compost delivery, submit the request form to schoolrecycling@co.dako​ta.mn.us at least two weeks before the requested delivery date.

Compost Delivery Request Form

Requests considered on a first-come, first-served basis as funds allow.​​

Collect food for​ animals

Food scraps and expired food items that are not suitable for food donation might still be good for animal feed. Schools can contract with a farmer or manufacturer to collect:

  • Food prep waste
  • Plate waste
  • Unpackaged spoiled, outdated or frozen food
  • Food by-products
  • Bakery goods

Farms provide lined plastic carts on wheels that are cleaned each time they are collected. Food sent to farms is cooked to eliminate harmful bacteria.

Food-to-animal organizations



Last updated: 6/25/2025 8:24 AM