Retired Physician Addresses Keweenaw County Board on Recycling Education

Graham Jaehnig/Daily Mining Gazette

Keweenaw County Resident Stresses Need for Recycling Awareness

EAGLE RIVER — Doug McKenzie, a retired physician and member of the Copper Country Recycling Initiative, recently spoke at the Keweenaw County Board meeting, highlighting the importance of public education on recycling.

Residents Unaware of Recycling Facilities

Based on a survey conducted in the Houghton-Hancock area, the CCRI discovered that many residents expressed interest in recycling various items but were unaware of the facilities that accepted them. McKenzie gave examples such as electronics, batteries, and used motor oil.

Existing Recycling Facilities in Houghton County

McKenzie mentioned that Goodwill in Houghton accepts electronics, while Remy accepts batteries. Bekkala’s Diesel Repair is a suitable location for used motor oil. However, there are several recyclable items, including fluorescent lights, oil-based paints, and scrap tires, that currently lack proper recycling outlets in both Houghton and Keweenaw County.

Scrap Tire Cleanup and Grant Opportunities

McKenzie informed the board about a recent scrap tire cleanup in Hancock funded by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He also mentioned a grant available for scrap tires, and another grant from the Recycling Partnership that provides funding for sending informative postcards to interested counties.

Expanding Recycling Initiatives in Keweenaw County

McKenzie expressed his willingness to expand recycling initiatives in Keweenaw County by providing residents with information on recycling locations and schedules. He proposed using postcards to communicate this information, with each township’s details included.

The Need for a Transfer Station in Keweenaw County

Board Chairman Don Piche acknowledged the county’s lack of a transfer station and suggested considering the establishment of one in Keweenaw County. He emphasized that a local transfer station would be more convenient for residents and eliminate the need to travel to Atlantic Mine.

For more information on the Copper Country Recycling Initiative, visit their website.

For a list of facilities that accept batteries and used tires, visit Recycle 906.