Operation Beautification , which focused on cleaning litter along highways .
“ I see every piece of trash on the road . That ’ s my job , but I know others see it too . It ’ s disappointing because we can clean a road one day and then travel the same road the next day and there is more garbage ,” said Masten . “ I wish people would understand if you throw something out a window it ’ s not going to just go away .”
Taking care of the environment through recycling and reducing litter has allowed residents to preserve the Lake Cumberland area and all the natural treasures it has to offer .
“ First and last impressions we want to leave on those who come to our community is that we take pride in our environment , and while they are here , they see people making efforts to keep it clean ,” said Masten . “ That leaves a lasting impression where people can say that ’ s a nice place where they care about their community .”
For residents of Pulaski County who wish to be more involved in recycling , the center has worked to make the process simple and easy . After calling their office and getting a recycling container for your household , the center also provides an app with more information on what can be recycled and when the pick-up date for recyclables will be .
“ We ’ ve made recycling as simple as we can . You throw all your recycling in one container and don ’ t have to sort it out . You just put the container outside , and once a month it ’ s picked up . We ’ d love to have more people on the program .”
More information can be found on their website at recycle . pulaskigov . com , calling 606-677-0320 or stopping by the center and seeing what recycling is all about firsthand .
“ Recycling is big for our community . From Eubank to Burnside , Nancy to Shopville and all points in between we have containers and people who really want to make a difference , come in and be on board ,” said Masten .
Wes Gullet sorts through cardboard at the Pulaski County Recycling Center .
Photo by Olyvia Neal
Pictured at left : Eric Sewel sorts through foam and cardboard at the Pulaski County Recycling Center . Photo by Olyvia Neal
Commonwealth Journal - Unsung Heroes - 2022 47