Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The pumpkins return to the land.

Springfield public works director Dave Fuchs said that’s what Saturday’s annual pumpkin smash at Lake Springfield was all about.

“Smashing pumpkins is a really good idea because, one, we’re able to use these to compost,” said Fuchs. “These will all be taken to the farm, and they’ll be returned to the field to nourish next year’s crops; plus, it’s a great way to kind of express yourself in a vigorous fashion, and it’s very satisfying. Very satisfying.”

What does it take to succeed here? “It takes focus, it takes determination, and a lot of energy,” said Fuchs.

Recycling the pumpkins is important, but the kids with the baseball bats are doing all the work. “Yes they are, but they are having a lot of fun. Everybody loves to carve the jack-o-lanterns for Halloween, but they all get a little mushy, and the holiday passes, so this is a good way to take care of it. They work off a little energy on a beautiful Saturday morning.”

Activities at Lake Springfield Saturday morning included a food drive, touch-a-truck, shredding, and food trucks.