“Tending the Garden in Our Own Back Yard”
|
This phrase boldly summarizes the fundamental
philosophy of the Northwest Arkansas Solid Waste Management
District in regard to solid waste management -- that is, that
the citizens and local governments of this region are
responsible to deal appropriately with the solid waste that is
generated here. This is counter to the widely-held “Not In My
Back Yard” mindset which exists in many other parts of the
nation.
The Board recognizes that its ideals and goals cannot be altogether met in one day, in one month, or even in one year. Rather, this Board sees its responsibility to continuously guide the Region toward the ultimate achievement of the ideals. Likewise, the statement reflects the Board’s recognition that effective solid waste management comprises a multiplicity of aspects and components, and that effective efforts must be comprehensive and integrated. The perfect system will be harmonious and all-inclusive, and will require time, commitment and extensive resources. But with patience and commitment, none of it is perceived as being beyond the reach of the Northwest Arkansas Regional District. |
During the process of developing a Solid Waste
Management Plan, it was recognized that
A Solid Waste Management Plan must be constantly evolving based on circumstances. Problems must be solved incrementally, as they are discovered and as financial and human resources allow. Typically they do not lend themselves to “cut and paste” solutions. Through the District's Ten-Year Solid Waste Management Plan, Northwest Arkansas undertakes to do the best we can with what we have – to work to solve problems as they occur, under the circumstances that exist, and with all the resources that can be marshaled. A crucial and fundamental component found through all portions of the Plan is the need to effectively address public education and awareness. The public must be involved and informed. Likewise, in order for the public to be adequately and accurately informed, the District must commit resources to the greatest practical degree to providing services which enhance public awareness. Elements of public education and awareness are crucial to the success and effectiveness of many of the goals described in the Solid Waste Management Plan. The Plan is only as good as the public and governmental support behind it. Literally and figuratively, we are all responsible for “Tending the Garden” that is the beautiful backyard called Northwest Arkansas. |
|
2007 Solid Waste Management Plan for NW Arkansas Access for reading online, downloading, and printing (PDF format) |
|
|
For Additional Information
or Assistance, Contact: |
|
