04/22/2026
Happy Earth Day! This year consider volunteering with our Zero Waste Committee!
In approximately one month, a team of about 20 volunteers of all ages will come together to support waste diversion efforts at Mayfest, helping ensure that materials generated during the popular spring festival are redirected from landfills and instead transformed into nutrient-rich compost that can benefit local gardens and landscapes. “Join us in this rewarding community effort,” invites Marsh Hudson-Knapp, facilitator of the Zero Waste team.
While some may initially feel uncertain about volunteering, participants quickly discover that the experience is both engaging and meaningful. Volunteers report a strong sense of camaraderie, shared purpose, and appreciation from festivalgoers who value the effort to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
The impact of this work is tangible. Every item diverted from disposal contributes to a reduction in landfill use and supports a more sustainable materials cycle. Large-scale landfills, such as those found in places like Seneca Falls, New York, illustrate the long-term environmental challenges associated with waste disposal, including the generation of significant quantities of contaminated runoff.
Team member Kathy Sollien emphasizes the importance of local action: “At a recent Zero Waste event, Garlic Town 2025, we successfully diverted approximately 3,000 pounds of material. At a time when many people feel discouraged by global environmental challenges, participating in local efforts like Mayfest provides a concrete way to make a positive difference.” This year’s initiative marks the first Zero Waste collaboration at Mayfest, a joint effort between the Better Bennington Corporation and the Zero Waste Committee of the Bennington County Solid Waste Alliance.
Mayfest will take place in Bennington on Saturday, May 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Volunteers will also be invited to attend a preparation and orientation gathering, including a shared meal, prior to the event. Those interested in participating in Mayfest or future Zero Waste initiatives are encouraged to contact Marsh Hudson-Knapp directly for more information.
