KINGSFORD, Mich. (WZMQ) – In Dickinson County, the Conservation District is actively discussing the implementation of state recycling laws, seeking to bring positive environmental changes to the region.
According to Andrew Finkel, the District’s Development Coordinator, The Part 115 legislative package has proposed changes in Michigan solid waste law. The district seeks to introduce curbside recycling to the cities of Iron Mountain and Norway, with additional drop-off sites throughout the county. The district’s goal is to qualify for state grants by developing a comprehensive county-wide plan in cooperation with the county government.
Finkel emphasized the urgency, stating, “By 2028, we are supposed to have a curbside recycling program, and by 2032, a drop-off system. To apply for those grants, we need to have a fully-funded recycling plan in order.” The potential grant funding would be sourced through the Michigan Department of Great Lakes and Energy, also known as EGLE.
Simultaneously, the Conservation District has launched its annual spring tree sale, offering property owners new options tailored to the county’s current climate. Finkel explained, “We selected the new trees, based on sitting down with our soil scientist, and our forester. A lot of care was paid to what is going to stand the best chance of survival and have a long, healthy life here. And these are all trees predicted to do well and continue to do well in our area.”
Highlighting the importance of the Basswood tree, Finkel said, “It is an extremely important host for the eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly, making it a tree to consider for butterfly appreciators. It’s predicted to do well in the climate anticipated for Dickinson County.”
Orders for the spring tree sale are being accepted until April 5th, with Finkel noting, “We always rotate our species to offer residents more options. Some standouts in this year’s sale include Basswood, Eastern Cottonwood, Prairie crab apple, and Manchurian crab apple—all predicted to thrive in our climate.”
“Eastern Cottonwood is another one that is a new addition to this year. This is a tree that can grow extremely large, so that can be kind of cool to look at. It makes great habitat for crevice nesting birds such as owls, so it provides an important function to our local ecology as well,” informed Finkel.
Finkel encouraged participation, expressing gratitude, “We want to thank everyone and encourage everyone to participate. Orders are open until April 5, with pick-up scheduled for April 26 and 27 at the Norway fairgrounds and Coleman, Wisconsin. You get to tell us your preferred pick-up location when you order.”
To see the new tree and shrub options, or to check out the rest of the selection, visit:
