This descriptive research determined, using aggregated nonselective plate waste measurements, the characteristics of plate waste generated by 5th-8th grade students visiting Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, Minnesota over the course of 5 years. The results indicated a positive relationship between plate waste and group size; that groups from rural schools wasted less plate waste than schools from urban or suburban locations; and that groups from private schools wasted less than groups from public school groups. Completely eliminating plate waste is unrealistic, but reducing plate waste lowers user costs, makes program operations more efficient, and enhances a program’s success in meeting nutritional needs of children. (122 words
