Four Corners looks to increase recycling

Posted at: 09/21/2009 4:27 PM
By: Erisa Nakano, KOBF

Recycling in the Four Corners area was among the bottom five in the state last year, but officials said Monday the situation is improving.

About one percent of San Juan County recycled in 2008. More options this year for home owners means less trash headed to the landfill.

The amount of recycled items doubled since Farmington started a new curbside pick-up program in January.

An average of 80 tons of items per month was recycled last year. According to waste management, that number is up to 160 tons.

Waste management district manager Dennis Gallegos says curbside pick-up makes it more convenient for homeowners to recycle.

"Participation I can only see growing greatly. We can also go into the county. Bloomfield and Aztec are not recycling at this time," Gallegos said.

Homeowners have to call waste management to ask for a recycle bin. About 5,000 homes are currently participating.

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