How can you get rid of pumpkins without risking wildlife and the environment?

Millions of Americans buy pumpkins every fall, turning the seeds into a delicious treat and turning them into scary creatures for Halloween.

The United States Department of Agriculture reports that the top six producers harvested more than: 1.3 billion lira Pumpkin production in 2023.

But the vast majority of these gourds will eventually end up somewhere they shouldn’t and pose a threat to wildlife and the environment.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife warns that leaving pumpkins out for wildlife can have unintended consequences for both humans and animals. It is also illegal to feed wild animals in Colorado.

The state wildlife agency warned that leaving them outside could lead to a host of negative interactions with deer and elk, bears and mountain lions.

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Attracting deer and elk to your yard can also bring in predators such as mountain lions. Moose, moose and moose with babies can also be aggressive in protecting their young. Bringing these ungulates closer to humans increases the likelihood of conflict with dogs and cars, as well as increasing the spread of disease between animals, humans and wildlife.

This time of year can also lead to conflict with bears trying to stock up on calories before heading down for the winter.

Sending your pumpkins to the landfill may also have consequences, as they decompose and produce methane, a greenhouse gas more powerful than carbon dioxide. Diverting jack-o’-lanterns to a compost facility offers a safer way to dispose of them.

Many communities offer pumpkin-specific composting, or local farmers and ranchers often use them to feed pets or create their own compost. Check with your local community and compost facility for opportunities to properly dispose of your pumpkins.