Union County employees showed up in full force last Friday, to wage war on litter, where they managed to collect a substantial 2.3 tons of refuse from the environs of Jesse Helms Park in Wingate, according to a report from Union County's official website. A commendable feat, this effort was a part of the N.C. Department of Transportation's Spring Litter Sweep, an initiative aimed at keeping the roadways and natural spaces of North Carolina in a spick and span condition.
In a show of civic duty and county pride, these volunteers from across various county departments served beyond their conventional roles; this annual litter clean-up event drew support and got hands dirty, all for a worthy environmental cause. As noted by Caleb Sinclair, Solid Waste Director, "Union County employees not only serve our community through their respective departments, they also beautify our community and protect its natural environment through our annual litter clean-up event," Sinclair's words, relayed by Union County's website, underscore the dual role these employees play: serving the public while safeguarding the habitat.
Moreover, the local government is giving residents tips to help keep the mess at bay: they suggest using a litter bag in your car, securing items to prevent accidental wind-driven littering, and responsibly disposing of waste during curbside collection. They also recommend that business owners and those in charge of properties, whether they be churches, schools, or other facilities, can contribute meaningfully by providing accessible trash receptacles. A full rundown of these tips, plus information on the low or no-cost waste and recycling disposal options in the area, can be found on the county's Waste and Recycling webpage.
Should you feel inspired to take a more active role in litter management, Union County outlines several paths to engagement. They offer loaner litter collection kits, and with NCDOT's Spring Litter Sweep running through April 26, there's ample opportunity to link up with local coordinator Tiffanie Mullis, who can be reached at 704-218-5100. Additional information about the “Adopt a Highway" program, which includes a signage incentive for groups or businesses, can also be found through links provided on the previously mentioned county web page.
