(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.)
Public Works/Environmental and Green Management
Honorable Mention • Over 20,000
Population: 59,471 | Mayor: Stephanie Orman | County: Benton | Region: Northwest
The Challenge
Bentonville faced significant issues with its aging windrow composting method. Complaints about odors and flies from nearby neighborhoods led to multiple federal inspections, and while no violations were found, residents’ complaints were validated. The deteriorating compost pad and outdated equipment, such as the windrow turner, required costly replacements. Additionally, environmental concerns arose from nutrient-rich leachate runoff, which required treatment at the wastewater plant. City leaders sought an efficient and sustainable solution.
The Solution
In 2024, Bentonville implemented in-vessel composting, a method that addresses odor and environmental concerns by containing and regulating the composting process. Partnering with Garver Engineering and utilizing American Rescue Plan Act funds, the city installed six in-vessel composting units and two canopies. This approach reduces labor, improves efficiency and cuts down on the city’s carbon footprint. The new system solves long-standing issues and creates a revenue stream by allowing the city to sell compost to the public.
Bentonville was the first city in Arkansas to adopt the in-vessel composting method.
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