It has been said by some that the layout of the “new” recycling center at the transfer station has made it a less sociable, friendly place. Change never seems to come easily in Harvard; nevertheless, most people have done a great job adapting to the new system. While the new drop-off locations may have temporarily shifted some of the dynamics of socializing, maintaining the social aspects of our beloved “dump” has been given a high priority during this process, and this will continue.
While most residents have gotten used to the new system, a couple of issues remain that we feel will be largely addressed by one final layout change. The old recycling shed, used by Harvard’s Troop 1 Boy Scouts to collect and sort returnable cans and bottles, will be relocated next to the recyclables compactors, making it easier for residents to leave their returnables with the scouts while dropping off their other recyclables.
Also in the works is a move of the take-it-or-leave-it (TIOLI) area to a location under the lean-to shelter next to the old baler shed. Recycling volunteers will need to monitor this area to help keep it organized, and advise residents who have questions about what can and cannot be dropped off there. Our hope is that an enhanced TIOLI operation can become an anchor for a number of community outreach or fundraising activities which can be co-located in the open space between it and the glass containers, and help “the dump” maintain its role as the social center it has always been in this community.
Ample opportunities exist for residents to volunteer to help keep things running smoothly and to help make the recycling center an even better community center. Volunteering 12 hours per year at the transfer station will earn you a free dump sticker with pro-rated discounts for 6 to 12 two-hour shifts. Anyone interested can contact Chris Ryan at 978-772-9546 or ryan28@charter.net.
Chris Ryan
On behalf of the Transfer Station Committee
