New Community Compost Pilot and Local Food Partnership Launched

Type(s)
News Release

Sioux Lookout, ON – The Municipality of Sioux Lookout and the Rock Front Family Farm are proud to announce a new partnership aimed at strengthening local sustainability through food, farming, and waste reduction.

On April 1st, the Municipality and the Farm launched Phase 1 of the Community Curbside Compost Pickup Program. It will serve 50 households in Sioux Lookout on a first-come, first-served basis. The program reflects shared priorities around responsible resource use, environmental stewardship, and economic development.

“With spring around the corner, we’re excited to support the launch of this new service for our community,” said Jennifer Esposito, Manager of Strategic Initiatives. “This is a great example of how small-town innovation and partnerships can deliver meaningful change while making the most of limited resources. Programs like this also help us show how every tax dollar can deliver value back to residents, by improving the environment and creating new opportunities right here at home.”

Residential curbside organic waste collection will take place every Tuesday. The first month of collection is free for all participants and $25/month thereafter. Each participant will receive a starter kit with information and certified materials for use in the program. 

There are two free community drop-off locations available, 5 Mile Fuels and Convenience and Rock Front Family Farm on Queen Street. All residential organic waste will be accepted, including food scraps, bones, dairy, non-gloss paper, tea bags, plant trimmings, and “HOME” certified compostable bags and products.

“We’re committed to reducing landfill use and emissions, while creating soil-building compost to grow healthy local food,” said Tyler BernierRock Front Family Farm. “This isn’t just about waste, it’s about turning our leftovers into something valuable for our families and our future.”

The Municipality is supporting this project to bring new ideas to the community, grow the local economy, and maintain a healthy environment. Along with the compost program, the team-up with Rock Front Family Farm also works to support local food, create new jobs, and build things in a way that’s good for the planet.

“We’re excited to work with the Rock Front Family Farm to show what’s possible when government supports grassroots, community-led solutions,” added Brian MacKinnon, CAO & Municipal Clerk. “This kind of initiative shows the power of local action to address global challenges.”

Residents interested in signing up for curbside compost pickup can register at the Rock Front Family Farm website.

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About Rock Front Family Farm
The Rock Front Family Farm is a small, family-owned regenerative farm near Sioux Lookout focused on sustainable food production, community education, and creating systems that work in harmony with nature.

About the Municipality of Sioux Lookout
The Municipality of Sioux Lookout is a dynamic and diverse northern Ontario community that serves as a hub for commerce, healthcare, and culture. It is committed to supporting innovation, environmental stewardship, and community-led growth across the region.

For more information, please contact:
Jen Esposito, Manager of Strategic Initiatives
807-737-2700 ext. 2228 or [email protected]