What’s not to love about Illinois? The Midwest state offers scenic views every season, and whether you’re a fan of urban life or the rural experience, you’ll find it in Illinois.

As it turns out, Illinois is the No. 1 producer of pumpkins in the U.S., according to the USDA. The state had a whopping 15,900 acres of pumpkins in 2020.

Many of Illinois’ pumpkins are made into pies or sold as finished products or ingredients, according to the USDA. Of course, some become Halloween decorations.

When it’s time to get rid of your pumpkin, the Illinois Extension Service is asking residents to compost their pumpkins.

“In Cook County, 37% of landfill material is food waste, a major source of the greenhouse gas methane,” the Illinois Extension Service said in a release. “In Chicago alone, over 500,000 tons of organic waste is sent to landfills annually.”