IN Ross Township Fall 2016 | Page 66

Sustainability News COMMUNITY GARDEN Thanks to the efforts of Ross Gardening Volunteers and our Eagle Scout Candidate Mike Miller and his Troop, the Community Garden is a huge success. Under the direction of Commissioner Lana Mazur, and with the very generous help of the Christ Lutheran Church (where the Garden is located adjacent to Herge Park), we have been harvesting garden-fresh produce for the North Hills Food Bank to share with those in need. After many weeks of planning, Scout Mike Miller and his troop mates constructed a shed, fencing, and raised bed on the property. Great job!! We would also like to thank Fischer Landscaping for their donation towards the shed, and for the rain barrels they donated to the cause. ROSS TOWNSHIP GOES PLATINUM The Sustainable Pennsylvania Community Certification, a project of the Pennsylvania Municipal League and Sustainable Pittsburgh, is a voluntary performance recognition program that helps municipalities achieve their sustainability goals in order to save money, conserve resources, and encourage innovation.  It is intended to bring acknowledgment to municipalities that are applying the policy and practice of sustainability. Focused on municipal operations, policies, and practices, the certification also serves as a mechanism for sharing best practices for creating a more sustainable Pennsylvania. R O SS TOWN SH IP NE WS oss Township Ross Township is taking an integrated approach, addressing the three intertwining facets of sustainability: economy, environment, and society. One of Ross Townships many sustainability goals is to improve the natural environment, increase economic vitality, and promote a heathy community. Achieving Platinum Certification has helped Ross focus its attention to improving the quality of life for all residents and building a strong foundation for the future. Ross has demonstrated excellence, accelerated the policy and practice of good government, and gained recognition as one of four Platinum Certified Communities in the state of Pennsylvania. The certification is recognized by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and is considered when they are reviewing municipal funding applications. DISPOSING OF COMMON HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE As part of the residential solid waste and recycling contract with Waste Management, you have a convenient opportunity to dispose of your household generated special materials (i.e. garden chemicals, paints, household cleaners, swimming pool chemicals, fluorescent tubes, electronics, automotive products, etc.) safely, easily, and responsibly.  The At Your Door Special Collection Program is a residential service offered by Waste Management to provide year-round collections for you. More information, including acceptable and unacceptable materials, setting up an appointment, and preparing for collection can be found by contacting Waste Management: · Go to: www.wmatyourdoor.com · Call: 1.800.449.7587 (Monday-Friday 8:00am-8:00pm Eastern Time) · Email: [email protected] 64 Ross Township