Sustainability

Build a Greener Future

Resources & Programs for a Sustainable Chaffee County

Improving community sustainability is a key component of GARNA’s mission and we’re working with municipal, business and citizen partners to advance important waste diversion initiatives. GARNA helped author the 2020 Waste Audit and develop the 2022 Waste Diversion Plan for the County.

Recycleable and compostable items on a wooden tabletop

Resources

Transfer Station

Fall 2023: Chaffee County Awarded $4 Million EPA Grand for Recycling and Waste Diversion. Read the Press Release Here


Transfer Station: One viable solution to aid Chaffee County waste diversion is infrastructure investment in a transfer station for recycling. Chaffee County recycling haulers such as Waste Management, Shamrock, and Chaffee County Waste all transport the recycling they gather to Colorado springs using their own refuse compactor trucks. This represents an environmental problem as this driving contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and unsustainable costs for waste haulers. Read more here: Transfer Station Zoning (arcgis.com)


We will be posting implementation status updates on this page!

Community Resources

Programs

Events

  • Compost & Recycling DaysCheck our program calendar for special events for recycling and composting.
  • Christmas Tree recycling – The City of Salida takes Christmas Trees at its public works building on HWY 50
  • FIBArk Zero Waste – GARNA partners with FIBArk for a Zero Waste Event in June. Volunteers are a crucial part of the success of this program!
  • Gold Rush Days – GARNA partners with BV Gold Rush Days in September for a Zero Waste Event. Volunteers are also needed for this event!

Repurposed Feed Bags

  • Please drop your empty feed bags at Gone to the Dogs in Salida or BV
  • Purchase the bags at LaGree’s
  • Contributions to buy duct tape needed, or donate duct tape directly.
  • Groups welcome to do this together as a project, contact us to learn how AND get supplies!
  • Call Wendy Hall to schedule a workshop for your group. (719) 395-8306.
photo collage of volunteers making tote bags from feed bags

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