Selectmen approve trial compost area at transfer station for Chickadee Compost

Representatives from Chickadee Compost presented a proposal to use a small portion of the transfer station for a pilot compost operation processing up to 15 cubic yards (10 cy leaf/yard waste and 5 cy food compostables).

Kate Tompkins outlined a low-cost design that uses totes and solar-powered fans for aeration; she said finished piles take about six to eight weeks to cure. The plan included lids for totes, a modest footprint at the Transfer Station and sourcing of carbon materials from local suppliers.

Selectmen approved allowing Chickadee Compost space to operate on a trial basis and asked for more details on how lids, gull control and potential odors would be controlled. The board emphasized that the operation must comply with local licensing and any applicable DEP or solid-waste rules and asked the TM to provide guidance on permitting and monitoring.

No fees or formal lease terms were set at the meeting; the trial approval was limited and contingent on adherence to transfer-station rules and public-health standards.