“ There are all different kinds of ways of looking at it , but recycling makes a huge impact , and it ’ s one I didn ’ t realize until I started working here , doing all this and seeing what it does for everyone ,” said Masten .
The recycling center , located on West 80 in Somerset , has grown since it was established in 2007 by Gerald Hines in not only its size but also in what materials it can now recycle . The
center can accept most plastic , metal , cardboard , paper products , glass , foam , as well as appliances from refrigerators to electronics .
“ I think we have one of the best recycling centers for a rural community ,” said Masten . “ It ’ s hard to believe it ’ s been 15 years , and it ’ s grown leaps and bounds . We are blessed and lucky , and it goes back to Gerald who built it from the ground up before me . We ’ ve just built on that legacy to make it better , and it ’ s still growing .”
When Masten started his career with the center it staffed ten employees . It has since grown to 15 full-time staff and 15 part-time staff , who have remained integral to the recycling process .
“ Each and every one plays their role , and they are some of the hardest workers I know ,” said Masten . “ This doesn ’ t work if they aren ’ t there to do it .
Danny Masten , Pulaski County Recycling Center ’ s Recycling and Solid Waste Coordinator poses in front of the Recycling Center ’ s main building .
Photo by Olyvia Neal
44 Commonwealth Journal - Unsung Heroes - 2022