On May 19, the Knights of Columbus Council 5647, serving St. Thomas Aquinas in St. Paul Park and St. Rita’s in Cottage Grove, toured the Washington County South Environmental Center. Thirteen participants, including Brother Knights, spouses, and children, engaged in a guided visit led by Environmental Specialist Kaitlyn McCarthy. The group learned how the center processes hazardous waste, electronics, oils, paints, light bulbs, batteries, and more, reducing landfill impact. McCarthy shared data on the volume of materials processed and introduced the center’s reuse “store,” where residents can pick up free paints, stains, and other items.
Council Treasurer Mark Nelson inquired about landfill savings, and McCarthy presented a PowerPoint on the center’s environmental impact. At the tour’s conclusion, she distributed free radon test kits—two per resident—to encourage testing for this odorless gas, which can cause lung cancer. Many Knights took kits home, and residents are encouraged to pick up their own.
The Washington County Environmental Center accepts hazardous waste, electronics, batteries, food scraps, household sharps, and offers self-serve recycling. Additional services include a Free Product Room, one-day collection events, shredding events, compost bin and rain barrel sales, and business waste services.
Ever wondered where your hazardous waste goes? Residents can schedule behind-the-scenes tours of the center in Woodbury or Forest Lake for groups of 5–20 people, best suited for middle school age and older. Call 651-275-7475 for more information.
The South Environmental Center at 4039 Cottage Grove Drive is open Tuesday 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Thursday and Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Residents stay in their vehicle during drop-off, keep items separate, and provide proof of residency. Staff must be notified of sharps, damaged batteries, or dangerous items.
The Knights of Columbus, founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, is the largest Catholic lay men’s organization, with over 2.1 million members. Guided by charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism, the Knights provide spiritual support, financial protection, and lead charitable and environmental initiatives. Council 5647’s visit exemplified their mission—caring for the community and environment. The Knights invite residents to tour the center, see the impact firsthand, and join them in protecting future generations.