County seeks input on reducing waste

Lane County’s Waste Management Division is seeking public input on its update to the regional Solid Waste Management Plan, including potential strategies to increase waste diversion from the landfill.

The ultimate goal of the updated management plan is to develop a waste management system that is environmentally sound, technologically feasible, cost-effective, locally controlled and publicly acceptable, while providing for an overall reduction in waste generation. There are two ways for community members to provide feedback:

• Complete the brief online survey at surveymonkey.com/r/LaneCountyWaste by Sept. 16

• Attend one of three community meetings:

  • Monday, September 19, 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Atrium Building Lobby (99 W. 10th Avenue, Eugene)

  • Tuesday, September 20, 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Florence Events Center (715 Quince Street, Florence)

  • Wednesday, September 21, 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., Creswell Community Center (99 S. 1st Street, Creswell)

Each meeting will include an open house from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. with information for those who are unfamiliar with the detailed of Lane County’s regional solid waste systems.

In addition to the community meetings, Lane County will reach out to city representatives, those in the solid waste industry and business leaders.

“Working with our community to create a long-term plan to reduce our collective waste and manage what remains is critical to a healthy future,” said Waste Management Division Manager Dan Hurley. “An updated plan will help us create long-term stability in our services, help us protect our environment and support a healthy economy.”

The current Solid Waste Management Plan was adopted in 2002. Lane County has since achieved the majority of the goals outlined in that plan. In addition, there have been significant changes in solid waste management technology and laws during the last thirteen years.

Lane County has set a targeted, countywide recovery rate of 63 percent by the year 2050. In 2014, the recovery rate was 53.1 percent. To reach its goal of a 63 percent recovery rate, the County will need to divert approximately 49,000 additional tons each year.

This update is a cooperative effort among citizens, local governments, and private industry stakeholders to develop an effective Solid Waste Master Plan that will guide regional efforts through 2030. It is an opportunity to seek new and innovative solutions and partnerships that will support a healthier community.