CSO Program
The Reusable Pitchfork Initiative
Bamboo-handled, modular-tine pitchforks rated for 10,000 uprisings.
The Problem
Approximately 47 million single-use pitchforks are manufactured each year in the United States alone. The vast majority — 89%, by our count — are used exactly once before being discarded, often within sight of the very civic institution they were meant to oppose. This is not sustainable. This is not even responsible.
How It Works
Check out a pitchfork
Visit any of our 340 pitchfork libraries (often co-located with public libraries) and check out a fork using your CSO membership card. We trust you to return it.
Use it responsibly
Bamboo handles tolerate up to 10,000 uprisings before micro-fracture. Tines are modular — replace individually if dulled. Do not paint over the program logo.
Return for sharpening
Drop the fork in any participating receptacle within 14 days. Our regional sharpening cooperatives recondition tines, restore handle integrity, and re-issue the fork to the next user.
By the Numbers
1.2M
Pitchforks in circulation
847
Avg uprisings per pitchfork
9.6M
Single-use pitchforks averted (cumulative)
Voices of Responsible Outrage
Eight CSO members share what this program means to their practice.
“I haven't bought a single-use pitchfork since 2022. The library system works. The sharpening cooperative works. I do not understand why everyone is not doing this.”
Caldwell Briggs — Construction Foreman
“The bamboo handle is medical-grade. I have inspected one. The micro-fracture rating is honest.”
Dr. Moira Petrescu — Cardiothoracic Surgeon
“I check out a fork every spring before the budget meeting. I return it the next morning. The librarian and I have an understanding.”
Linda Morrissey — PTA Board Chair
“I have not personally used a pitchfork at a wedding, but I appreciate that the option exists, sustainably.”
Rev. Thomasina Oakes — Wedding Officiant
“Our division sponsors a pitchfork library at the regional office. Adoption is high. Returns are punctual. Tine replacement is cheap.”
Eleanor Whittaker — Head of Engineering
“My late husband's pitchfork is on its 1,200th uprising. The Campaign has indicated it may donate it to their archive when its useful life concludes. We are honored.”
Priscilla Voss-Bingham — Estate Executor
“Aesthetically, the bamboo handle is a major step forward for the protest aesthetic. Very Patagonia-coded. Very intentional.”
Nina Cabrera — Creative Director
“I have one I keep in the truck and one at the cabin. The library lets you keep two on long-term loan if you commit to community sharpening hours. I commit.”
Tony Mazetti — Contractor
Support The Reusable Pitchfork Initiative
Your contribution funds this program directly through our regional cooperative network.
Donate to This Program