Recycling Center Plus Expands Plastic Recycling
The Olmsted County Recycling Center Plus is now accepting additional types of plastic containers marked with a #1, #2, or #5!
For many years, the facility only accepted (for recycling) plastic bottles/containers #1 and #2 "with a neck." Several years ago, "clean #5 dairy containers" were added. The former acceptance policy was intentionally restrictive to ensure the materials we accepted could actually be recycled.
We are now confident these "non-necked" #1, #2, & #5 plastic containers will be saleable to end markets without issue. Examples include berry containers, baked-goods containers, spinach containers, potato salad containers, etc.
 Examples of "non-necked" acceptable plastics collected at the Recycling Center Plus, photo credit: Journey Malacina
Cathy Hall Named Director of Environmental Resources
The search for a new Olmsted County Environmental Resources (ER) director is complete and Cathy Hall has accepted the position. She will begin serving in this role on March 10, 2025.
As ER director, Hall will lead the department in managing the operations of the county’s recycling center, hazardous waste, yard waste composting, waste-to-energy, and landfill activities.
Hall is coming to Olmsted County from Pitkin County in Aspen, Colorado where she previously worked as the Solid Waste Director for the past 11 years.
“Cathy has a wealth of experience in solid waste management. In addition to her work in Colorado, she has extensive experience in the solid waste consulting industry in Ohio and Maryland, as well as with the Solid Waste Association of North America,” noted Olmsted County Physical Development Division Administrator Tony Hill. “Her expertise will be instrumental in advancing major environmental initiatives, like the construction of a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), that will shape the future of Olmsted County over the next several years."
“I’m thrilled to bring my years of experience in solid waste management to this role as director of Environmental Resources,” said Hall. “This is an incredible opportunity to build on my passion for sustainability and resource conservation, and I look forward to collaborating with the community to drive innovative environmental initiatives that protect and enhance our shared resources.”
Volunteers Needed for EarthFest Expo Fix-It Clinic
Do you have a knack for tinkering, fixing, or mending items? If so, consider volunteering at a Fix-It Clinic! Olmsted County is partnering with Reuse Minnesota and EarthFest Rochester to support residents with repairing their items, reducing waste, and sharing skills within the community. We are seeking volunteer fixers, tinkerers, and menders, as well as those who would like to help with general event needs, to make this possible!
Consider volunteering on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Saint Mary's University-Rochester at Cascade Meadow. This Fix-It Clinic will be part of EarthFest's annual expo and will run from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
If interested, please submit a Volunteer Interest Form. For more information, please email us at pwservice@olmstedcounty.gov or call 507-328-7070.
Resident Question: Is my waste hauler mixing my garbage and recyclables?
Question: My waste hauler empties my garbage bin and recycling cart at the same time. Are they mixing garbage with recyclables?
Answer: Your hauler is most likely using a "split-body" truck. These trucks can compartmentalize garbage/recyclables, which eliminates the need for a second pass. If you still have questions, we recommend reaching out to your hauler as they will be able to confirm the type of truck that is servicing your route.
Contact information for licensed waste haulers operating in Olmsted County can be found on our website.
 Photo of a split-body waste truck courtesy of G-S Products, Waste/Recycling Equipment.
Olmsted County Food Scrap Compost Pilot Extended Through 2025
In June 2024, Olmsted County implemented an innovative food scrap drop-off program for residents interested in composting food waste. After five months of successful operation, participants were given the opportunity to provide feedback. More than 90% of survey respondents indicated they would like to see the program continue. Based on program interest and participant feedback, the program has been extended through December 31, 2025.
For $25, the food scrap composting kits include 26 BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) certified compostable bags offered in 2.5-gallon and 4-gallon sizes, instructions, tips on reducing food waste, and access to the drop-off location.
Visit our website to get started!
 A pilot-project participant drops off food scraps; photo credit: Anthony Wittmer
2025 Litter Bit Better: Registration Now Open!
Registration for the 19th annual Litter Bit Better event is now open. This year’s spring clean-up event will run from April 19 to 27. Volunteers can register online: LBB Registration Map. Trash and recycling bags are provided for all participants.
Since the program's launch in 2007, volunteers have removed more than 145 tons of litter from the community. Every spring, as snow melts, litter becomes more visible. This event is a chance for Rochester and Olmsted County residents to come together to care for the environment and keep Rochester looking its best. Whether volunteers clean up alone or gather family, friends or coworkers, their efforts make a difference.
This event is made possible by the support of community partners, including haulers Durst Outdoor Services and Waste Management.
Additional resources on waste disposal:
- More information on recycling in Olmsted County: Recycling Center Plus | Olmsted County, MN.
- More information on Hazardous Waste Disposal in Olmsted County: Hazardous Waste Facility | Olmsted County, MN. Some materials are disposed of at no charge, while others incur a fee.
- The Recycling Center Plus and Hazardous Waste Facility are located at 305 Energy Parkway NE, Rochester and are open Tuesday through Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
 Volunteers collect litter during last year's spring clean-up, photo submitted to RNeighbors
City of Rochester Offering Free "Electrify Everything" Workshops
Is your Home Ready for an upgrade? Join the FREE workshop series in the City of Rochester to learn about improving energy efficiency, switching to electric appliances, and explore financial resources and planning assistance. The first workshop, Get Amped: The Basics of Electrifying Your Home, will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm. Learn more about how to electrify your home at Electrify Everything Minnesota, and reserve your spot today!
Rochester residents can also take advantage of free guidance from Electrify Everything Advisors to complete home projects and line up resources. Additionally, contractor and developer workshops will offer up-to-date information on electrification options, incentives, and certifications for electrification retrofits or new construction. Explore the City Sustainability page for full details on upcoming workshop dates!
Disposal Discussion: Single-Use Lithium Batteries
Single-use lithium batteries often appear identical to single-use alkaline batteries in both shape and size. This makes checking the label very important as lithium batteries (both single-use and rechargeable) can start fires in garbage & recycling trucks, at waste transfer stations, and at materials recovery facilities. They should be brought to the Olmsted County Hazardous Waste Facility.
Alternatively, single-use alkaline batteries can go in your household trash.
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