Floyd County, Ind. Seeks Grant for Recycling Initiatives, Education

Looking to increase the number of residents who visit Floyd County’s recycling centers, the county is seeking funding to promote recycling.

The Floyd County Solid Waste Management District, also known as Recycle Floyd County, looks to become the first state in Indiana to recycle 50% of household waste by 2030. Scott Stewart, Floyd County Solid Waste Manager, says that the plan to achieve this goal involves the expansion of education, access, and partnerships in Floyd County.

Last year, the Floyd County Solid Waste District’s board of directors, led by President Floyd County Councilman Brad Striegel, voted unanimously to approve the “50 by 30” goal. After that, the solid waste district rebranded to “Recycle Floyd County” to send a clear message about its mission.

"We really want to change the mindset of our communities to have recycling be a part of their daily lives instead of just something they do every once in a while," Striegel said.

The district has applied for a $101,000 grant from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The grant would allow Floyd County to add two additional trailers for recycling collection and support community education and marketing efforts, as well as a planned partnership with Indiana University.

"So should this grant come through, we'll be able to take a handful of IUS students focusing on sustainability and involve them in the planning and execution of our community outreach and education efforts," Striegel said.

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