By Marlene McTigue
Capital Region Independent Media
SELKIRK – The town of Bethlehem officially opened its new food scraps composting shed at a ribbon-cutting ceremony in December, marking a significant step forward for the town’s sustainability initiatives.
The project was spearheaded by Charlie LaDue, an Eagle Scout candidate from Troop 58 in Elsmere, whose leadership and dedication turned the vision into reality.
“This program allows residents a convenient and affordable way to turn their household’s food scraps into wonderful compost—which helps build healthy soils and grow healthy and delicious plants,” said Town Supervisor David VanLuven. “This is an alternative to putting them in the Albany landfill—which is rapidly filling up and expected to close within a couple of years—where the food scraps would produce methane and significantly contribute to climate change.”
A PROJECT ROOTED IN COMMUNITY
LaDue, a junior at Bethlehem Central High School, was inspired to take on the composting shed project after discussions with Dan Rain, the town’s recycling and composting department head.
“Dan gave me the idea of building a shed,” LaDue said. “So, once we met with Dan, we got started on the design, and then once we were done with our planning, we started fundraising,” said LaDue, who says his parents were an essential part of his success as they supported him all along the way.
The project raised approximately $1,200, with Curtis Lumber in Delmar donating half of the building materials.
“They donated half of our supplies, and the rest were covered by other donors such as Capital Cooks and other residents of the town,” LaDue explained.
“My family and friends were a huge help during the build days,” he added.
His father, Bill LaDue, described the project as a learning experience in leadership.
“The goals are for Scouts to plan and organize a project—not necessarily build it all themselves,” he said.
Charlie’s mother, Erin LaDue, shared her pride in her son’s accomplishment.
“Seeing him take ownership of this project and work so hard to bring it to life has been incredible,” she said.
A LASTING IMPACT
The new shed, located at the Town Compost Facility on Feura Bush Road, provides a permanent and accessible home for the town’s growing Food Scraps Composting Drop Spot Program, which allows residents to divert food scraps from landfills and turn them into nutrient-rich compost. The shed also includes a parking pull-off and ramp, ensuring easy access for residents.
“This shed is more than just a structure—it’s a symbol of our community’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility,” VanLuven said.
Rain echoed the sentiment, expressing gratitude to the many contributors.
“We are grateful to Charlie, his family, Troop 58, Curtis Lumber, Capital Cooks, and all the other donors who made this possible,” he said. “The town’s DPW and Highway Departments also played a crucial role, assisting with the site work, pull-off, and ramp.”
THE JOURNEY
For Charlie LaDue, completing the project was a milestone on his path to achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. His plan was approved by the council before construction began, and now that the ribbon has been cut, he awaits final review and recognition for his achievement.
As he looks ahead to his future, he’s exploring interests in sports broadcasting and communications. He credits his love for planning and teamwork to his years in scouting.
The Food Scraps Composting Drop Spot Program continues to gain momentum as more residents embrace sustainable waste management practices.
“This program is about building healthier communities,” Rain said.
For more information on the composting program, visit https://www.townofbethlehem.org/125/Compost-Facility.