Otter Tail County Encourages Residents to “Resolve to Recycle Right”

As the new year begins, Otter Tail County is calling on residents to make a resolution to recycle properly. By following simple guidelines, residents can help ensure their recycling efforts create cleaner products that can be transformed into new items like pizza boxes and decking materials.
Improper recycling—such as placing foam packaging in cardboard bins—can damage equipment and reduce the value of recyclables. The County’s Public Information and Education Officer, Clancy Oliphant, emphasized the importance of recycling correctly:
“By resolving to recycle right, we can protect our environment, reduce waste, and support the recycling process to turn materials into usable products.”
Simple Steps to Recycle Right
1. Know what to recycle: Check Otter Tail County’s guidelines for accepted materials, such as clean paper, cardboard, glass bottles, metal cans, and plastics labeled #1, #2, and #5.
2. Avoid contamination: Rinse containers to remove food residue and throw away caps before recycling.
3. Keep plastic bags out: Dirty plastic bags should go in the trash. Clean bags can be taken to drop-off locations, such as grocery stores.
4. When in doubt, throw it out: Unsure if an item is recyclable? Place it in the trash to avoid contaminating recyclables. Use the County’s “Waste Wizard” tool for guidance.
Resources for Residents
To support recycling efforts, Otter Tail County provides tools and resources, including recycling guides, facility tours, and tips for reducing waste. Residents can schedule a tour of the recycling facility in Fergus Falls or the Prairie Lakes Municipal Solid Waste Authority’s facility in Perham to learn more.
For more information or to schedule a tour, visit ottertailcounty.gov or contact Clancy Oliphant at 218-998-8950.
Make Recycling Your New Habit for 2025
“Recycling properly is one of the simplest ways to make a positive impact in our community,” Oliphant added. Let’s work together to protect our environment and reduce waste this year.