Nearly 2,000 pounds of pumpkins collected at San Diego County's first Pumpkin Smash went to animals at two local farms and rescue operations, the county reported Nov. 3.

The event at Lakeside Community Center combined pumpkin smashing with lessons about composting and organic waste. Organizers separated usable pumpkins from spoiled or moldy material, which went for composting rather than animal feed.

Oma's Farm received about 1,000 pounds of pumpkin scraps for goats, while Pebble Ranch Rescue received about 1,000 pounds of whole pumpkins for pigs. Residents, Albertsons and Grocery Outlet contributed pumpkins, and San Pasqual Valley Soils partnered on a free compost giveaway.

I Love A Clean San Diego coordinated the event with support from county parks staff. Organizers plan to make it an annual community event, according to San Diego County News Center.