Roger W. Rees Executive Director of Oregon HEAT said, "We must always strive to remember that as a community we are only as strong as our weakest link, and those we effectively serve will only add to the strength of that community."

Last year the City of Newberg Public Works Maintenance (PWM) Division signed up with Oregon HEAT Oil Recycling Program. This program is an award-winning environmental oil recycler program and began in November 2007. Through the program, thousands of gallons of oil is donated for recycling by individuals, organizations, and businesses. This keeps used petroleum out of landfills, and uses the funds generated to help local families stay warm in their homes.

During the last year, the City of Newberg PWM Division donated a little over 1,000 gallons of used oil to the recycling program. When PWM Superintendent Russ Thomas was contacted by Roger J. Anderson, the Oil Program Director, about the city's experience with Oregon HEAT, this was the exchange:

Q: Why did you choose to donate your shop's used oil to Oregon HEAT?
A: This really is a true "no brainer". Our used oil was already picked up for recycle for free. We continue the benefit of no-cost disposal. However, by joining Oregon HEAT, we can also help those persons in need in our area at no cost to the City. The value of the recycled oil stays in our local county. As a local government agency, we are not only helping to protect the environment through this sustainable option, but we are able to provide assistance to our citizens at no additional cost. It's just the right thing for us to do.

Q: How has the process worked for you? Has donating oil impacted your operations, either negatively or positively?
A: We were already having our used oil picked up for recycling for free, so there has been no change in our process, just a change in who is picking it up. We also discovered that the recycler will provide larger totes. This makes it possible for us to include used oils from several facilities for the program.

Q: Would you recommend the Oregon HEAT Oil Recycling program to your peers?
A: This is easy to do! All Oregon cities and counties should be doing this. There is no cost, we are using a stainable option, helping preserve the environment, and now helping those in our local community who need it the most during the winter. If you can help someone in need, without any cost to you, the question would be - why  not do it?

To donate or to learn more about Oregon HEAT Oil Recycling Program please call 503.612.3790 or email info@oregonheat.org.