The Manheim Township Compost Park in Lancaster County is waiving fees and entry card requirements this week to help residents clear storm debris after severe weather caused widespread damage across the region. Township officials said residents can drop off yard waste free of charge through Sunday, July 12. The site, on Oregon Pike, is open only to residents of Manheim Township and East Lampeter Township. No contractors or commercial vehicles will be permitted, according to the township. The compost park accepts garden residues, shrubbery, tree pruning, sod, leaves, and grass. Free leaf compost is also available for use in yards, landscapes, and gardens. The facility has been busy since the storms, with a steady stream of trucks arriving to unload branches, leaves, and other debris as cleanup continues. Austin McDade of Wayne’s Towing and Recovery said the Delp Road area was hit especially hard and that neighbors are working together to recover. He lives in the area and had a lot of trees down, so he and his community are doing their best to connect, clean up, and get everyone back safely. The compost park is open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Officials said the temporary changes are intended to make storm cleanup easier for residents as recovery efforts continue. This is a heartwarming example of community resilience and resourcefulness in the face of natural disasters. It highlights the importance of local initiatives and the power of neighbors coming together to support one another during challenging times. It's also a reminder of the environmental benefits of composting and the importance of proper waste management in disaster recovery efforts.
