Upgrading waste management systems topic of upcoming symposium

The two-day event, “Tools to Update and Expand Your Waste Management Services,” will take place Feb. 28-March 1 at the Cherokee Casino and Resort, 77 West Cherokee St., Catoosa, said Sarah Kimball, OSU Cooperative Extension Service assistant rural development specialist. Her Web site has more information at http://agecon.okstate.edu/waste/.

“This symposium is designed to optimize your public or private waste management operations,” Kimball said. Robert Whitaker of Ardmore agrees and says that “We’ll cover everything from the latest equipment and funding opportunities to investigating new systems, agency services available and networking with other waste management professionals.”

David Horinek, Ponca City waste manager, indicated that eight SWANA Continuing Educational Units (CEUs) are available to participants who attend both days. Registration is $100 per person and includes all materials, sessions, exhibits, two lunches, break refreshments, bus and tour. Exhibitors also may register for $100 per person. There are some student scholarships available on a limited basis.

Fenton Rood, Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), said the target audience includes solid waste managers and facility operators, city managers, local decision makers, elected officials, county commissioners, public works directors, engineering firms, equipment dealers, consultants, contractors, health department officials and economic developers.

One of the highlights of the symposium will be a bus tour led by Doug Bane of ICI and Larry Mitchell of Durant. David Griesel of Oklahoma Environmental Management Authority related that the tour will include the American Environmental Transfer Station and the Crane Carrier Manufacturing facility. Industry specialists from across the state will be on hand to share their expertise in waste management.

Sharon Swepston, Cherokee Nation and SWANA board member, said several programs, agencies and vendors will have displays of their programs, services or products in an indoor venue and an outdoor venue. Please keep in mind that exhibit space is limited and will be assigned on a first come basis.

“This symposium is a wonderful way for those who attend to network with other waste management professionals and share vital information,” said John Smith, Oklahoma SWANA president and waste manager at Sallisaw. “It is important to find new and innovative ways to reduce waste and increase the efficiency and cost effectiveness of waste management programs.”

Brenda Merchant, of Waste Connections, Inc., indicated that the casino hotel fills up quickly. Call 1-800-760-6700 for reservations and mention the block #SWAN 0207_002 for state rates.

For more information about the 2007 SWANA Spring Symposium, contact Sherry Greathouse, 1945 Moffett Lane, Ft. Gibson, OK 74434; phone at 918-478-6025; or email at sherry.greathouse@ici-ok.com.  Registration and exhibitor brochures are available at http://swanachapters.org/ok.

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Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.