Waste Management is the University of Rochester’s partner in our solid waste and recycling endeavors. The company and its representatives have gone above and beyond to help us meet our sustainability goals, from taking extra steps during the annual RecycleMania competition, to establishing an ongoing organics collection program. We thank them for all that they do!
Just a couple months ago, a group of our own students and staff visited High Acres Landfill and experienced firsthand how Waste Management works to not only incorporate but enhance the natural environment in its plan. One of the highlights of our tour was to learn about the falcons who work onsite. Yes, that’s right, falcons. You see, scavenging seagulls are attracted to the working face of the landfill, often in very large numbers, which can create problems for the landfill operators and neighbors nearby. But, as natural predators, falcons swarm the skies and help scare off the birds. A falconer is employed onsite to train and care for the birds and to help ensure that minimal harm is inflicted upon the seagulls. While other landfills may use flares to help with this problem, this more natural method is chosen as an alternative at High Acres.
Also onsite is a 250-acre nature area which inhabits many species of insects, reptiles, amphibians and birds. The area serves as a research site for graduate students from RIT. We were pleased to learn that the High Acres Nature Area was recently honored with the 2015 International Conservation Award by the Wildlife Habitat Council, an international non-profit that accredits programs that create wildlife habitat on corporate lands.
“It is such an honor to be recognized for the hard work, passion and partnerships that go into our Wildlife Habitat Council programs,” said Nicole Fornof, manager of communications and municipal relations for Waste Management. “By transforming our buffer property into wildlife habitat and outdoor classrooms, we are enhancing the value of open space resources for the surrounding community.”
Congratulations, to all involved!
Wow, that’s so cool that they use falcons! They are amazing birds, and it makes so much sense that they would keep the seagulls away. When I walk up to the library at my school, there are always birds scavenging the parking lot.