The “three R’s” for 2008 and beyond
By Ronda Nelson
There was a time when mention of the “three R’s” brought to mind reading,
‘riting and ‘rithmatic. Today that is not always the case. Greener Clearwater
County (GCC) was formed to introduce people to the three R’s of recycling:
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Founded in December 2007, by Orofino residents Brandi Nelsen and Amanda Tucker (pictured, r to l), GCC has a stated mission of “keeping Clearwater County greener for future generations.” Their primary focus is to educate the public and facilitate recycling programs.
“Education is huge.” Tucker said. Many people in the county believe that the county is already recycling, which is not the case. While they admit to having met with some resistance to their efforts, the overall response has been positive.
They also laud the efforts that are already being made by individuals and groups, such as at home recycling and the receptacles currently available for aluminum can recycling to benefit various organizations and sports teams.
They are slated to make presentations to several community organizations, and have already had a screening at the Rex Theatre of a film on recycling. They are in the process of setting up presentations to high school classes, as well as an assembly at the junior high. At the elementary level they will make their approach more personal, reading books to the students and sponsoring a coloring contest.
Nelsen and Tucker are homemakers. Tucker attended school K-12 in Orofino. Nelsen moved here in Jr. High. Nelsen and her husband Justin have two daughters, Haili and Graci. Tucker and husband David have a son Jackson and daughter Macy. “We love Orofino,” Tucker said, “and we just want to see it better.”
“We look at our kids,” Brandi said. “This might not affect Amanda and I so much, but it’s for our kids.”
Last “R”
Recycling, they said, should be the last option utilized in the three R’s. Before recycling people should do what they can to reduce and reuse. They take advantage of online sites that allow them to give away things they no longer use—and to find items they need.
Little things like a switch away from disposable diapers, or carrying a tote bag to bring home groceries, rather than using plastic bags, can add up when enough people make it their practice.
As with any change, the initial stages can be difficult, but once a family has made recycling a habit it becomes second nature they said.
At the same time, there is a level of enthusiasm that has some people asking when curbside recycling will be available, a goal that is far in the future.
Currently, Clearwater County pays $900,000 annually to carry solid waste to Missoula for disposal. Reduction in solid waste through recycling would translate into money saved, providing savings to tax payers, besides being good for the environment.
Recyclable or not?
While recyclers in the area will take plastic, tin, cardboard, aluminum and waste paper, they will not take glass.
Whitman County has solved that issue by purchasing a machine that pulverizes glass. The county grinds glass and the resulting powder is re-used as an ingredient in asphalt. The county paid for the machine with grant funds.
It is that kind of innovation that GCC hopes to tap into. Tucker has grant writing experience and is researching options that will enable Clearwater County to recycle most effectively.
Earth Day
Earth Day is officially April 22, but GCC will sponsor Earth Day events in the city park in conjunction with the city clean up efforts April 26. They are working with three recycling companies to determine the lowest bid for providing recycling bins at the park. Demonstrations on home recycling will be available. There will also be artisan booths and music. A clothing swap and toy swap will be held as well.
Hayes Hardware is offering bins at cost plus 10% for those who want to start their own at home recycling program.
Volunteers needed
GCC welcomes new members and volunteers. People willing to read to school children or organize games and volunteers to provide help during Earth Day at the park are needed. Musicians are needed and artisans are welcome for the event April 26.
GCC meets the last Tuesday of each month. For more information contact Tucker at 476-5658 or Nelsen at 476-5809.
As an ongoing fundraiser, GCC is selling canvas shopping bags, with the GCC logo, for $5 each. Contact Tucker or Nelsen to purchase yours.