Letter: Eagle’s misplaced priorities on composting

Opinion Opinion | Aug 23, 2023

Ali Longwell reported in a recent article on Eagle targeting its net-zero 2030 goal with composting and single-stream recycling that “59% of all waste generated in the Eagle County Municipal Solid Waste stream is organic waste.” All waste “contributes to 14% of (our) carbon emissions.”

Does that mean 59% of 14% is from organic material? The answer seems small. Anyway, the town is “encouraging” us to compost. By the way, compost isn’t soil. As it continues to decompose, it will eventually help improve the soil you have. According to Jennifer Collins, business development manager for Vail Honeywagon, “some of the biggest mistakes” of wannabe composters are “produce stickers and dog poop bags.”

But is meat, grease, dairy, etc., and dog poop things that are OK in my organic garden? No. Oh no. So, for my own good and in the name of virtue signaling for the town of Eagle, my trash has been enhanced. I could opt out, but I must still pay the extra $11.76 a month. Also according to Collins, that isn’t an issue. The town is “encouraging” me to do what I already do in my own backyard. I will probably be expected to purchase that bin liner shown in the picture also.

On the positive side, I can pick up for free this decomposed trash, poop, meat and heaven knows what else at the yard waste site. A note about being nickel and dimed for my own good … have you noticed how since people aren’t watering their lawns, the trees are dying? Those big green leafy things that along with grass help the town in many ways (see the town’s Arbor Day Proclamation).

Trees need water, and $11.76 plus could cover a day’s lawn irrigation. But folks have priorities. Like food, gas, utilities and other such nonsense. Include now yet another increase to the town bill. So what are we achieving here with this enhancement?

Maggie Luby Eagle