Stewards VISTA: Ohio County Solid Waste Authority Year 1

The Ohio County Solid Waste Authority exists as a public agency created by the West Virginia Legislature in 1989. At that time, the Legislature found that "uncontrolled, inadequately controlled and improper collection and disposal of solid waste" poses a clear and present danger to people, wildlife, and the environment. Now, OCSWA and its fifty sister organizations exist to reduce waste, divert recycling, household hazardous waste, and tires from landfills.

In fall 2021, the organization rapidly transformed into a reliable place for the region's citizens to recycle and learn about waste diversion. OCSWA also offers educational programming at schools and community events, volunteer opportunities, litter walks, and a yearly Earth Day festival. We've recently expanded to incorporate a food waste reduction initiative, a composting pilot, and a recycling in the schools pilot project that currently involves waste diversion efforts and education in one private, and two public schools in Ohio County. Our goal is to be operating this project in all schools within our borders over the next few years.

A VISTA in this position would be serving in a supportive environment as part of a team dedicated to creating positive change and connection between its community members and the environment.