Iowa Forms New USCC Chapter

The State of Iowa now has a newly formed chapter of the USCC to promote infrastructure building, as well as training to cope with increasing amounts of organics in the landfill. The Iowa Composting Council (IACC) is now an official USCC Chapter with support from the Iowa Recycling Association (IRA).

Alan Schumacher, President of the IRA, said, "It just makes sense. The IRA is here to promote recycling. Organics are the largest waste stream in Iowa. Of course, we should promote the recycling of organics through composting. It's a perfect fit."

The group, which is seeking Iowa members, will educate state regulators, local officials and the public about the importance of the compost manufacturing industry to local waste management programs, jobs and business development as well as the benefits of using compost in commercial and residential landscaping and farm fields. Educational outreach will also include the benefits of using compost for storm water management, erosion control and green infrastructure. The IACC, IRA and USCC will jointly take positions on regulations and legislation that affect the industry and the market for compost in the state.

"The USCC – and the compost industry – is most effective in states where a local and organized industry group is at the table,” said Frank Franciosi, executive director of the USCC. "Our chapters are important because their leadership is directly in touch with the members we work to serve.”

The Iowa Composting Council becomes the 13th regional chapter of the USCC after stakeholders in Iowa identified a need to provide training to compost operators, as well as education promoting compost benefits with the potential to grow current composting infrastructure in the state. Currently, the IRA is soliciting nominations for officers to serve on the IACC subcommittee.

For more information about the Iowa Composting Council, contact Jennifer Trent at jennifer.trent@uni.org.