Author: Kim Angel
Planning Unit: Jackson County CES
Major Program: Natural Resources
Plan of Work: Leadership and Community Development
Outcome: Initial Outcome
In Jackson and Wolfe Counties, we have a huge solid waste disposal issue as evidenced by multiple dump sites and litter along roadways and stream banks throughout the counties. An opportunity became available to educate about proper solid waste disposal and remove existing waste. Jackson and Wolfe County obtained funding through a UK CARES Grant in the amount of $10,000 to improve their communities. A portion of the grant was to teach the youth in the community the process of bringing change to an issue as citizen scientists. 4-H Natural Resource Specialist, Ashley Osborne, came to each community to sample the water in local streams, conducted a stream assessment, and provided virtual education on runoff. Teachers at the school sponsored our citizen scientists by teaching the lessons, coordinating the cleanup efforts, and working through the entire process. Trail cams were purchased so local government could monitor dump sites that were cleaned up. Agents and office staff coordinated with local county officials and school groups to orchestrate dump site cleanups and provide free trash removal. In total, the two counties removed 412,500 pounds of trash or 338.13 tons from roadsides and stream banks. Students realized the continual need for roadside cleanups and have made plans to continue those with their sponsors. The local government is going to cover the cost of disposal of whatever they pick up.
Jackson County is one of the poorest counties in Kentucky and even the nation. Having access to nutr... Read More
Jackson County is one of the poorest counties in Kentucky and even the nation. Having access to nutr... Read More