USDA Rural Development in Nebraska celebrated with the City of Pawnee City last month in honor of Earth Day, the recent delivery of a multi-bin recycling trailer. City officials, school children and those instrumental to the project attended. The ribbon was cut signifying the community dedication to this project and a plaque from Rural Development was presented applauding the City for securing the funds needed. Rural Development assisted with a grant of $8,000 leveraged with $6,555 from the City. A host of children took part in the event and poster contest winners were announced.
The recycling trailer establishes a stable, sustainable recycling connection for all citizens of Pawnee City. A City staff member shuttles the trailer to a regional recycling center at least twice a month. The Pawnee City Student Council leaders volunteered to assist in the oversight and maintenance of the trailer and were present at the event to give a demonstration.
Previously, the citizens and business owners were only able to recycle aluminum, other metals and waste oil so the need for a recycling trailer was apparent. Today they recycle #1 and #2 plastic, newspapers, chipboard, cardboard, metal cans, paper and magazines.
Pawnee City is very familiar with USDA Rural Development. The community has received funds to assist in the purchase of land on which to build a new public library; $3.6 million to assist in the replacement of its wastewater treatment system and $2.9 million for a water improvement project.
To find out more about how USDA Rural Development programs can benefit your community, click here.