Hope Mikelson
The Rappahannock Regional Solid 91ֿ Management Board (R-Board), serving Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg, continues to lead with impactful community outreach programs focused on sustainability, education, and environmental responsibility. Through innovation, volunteerism, and strategic partnerships, the R-Board has received multiple local, state, and national honors for its efforts.
Nationally & State-Recognized Programs
Composting Program Honors
- 2024 Virginia Association of Counties (VaCo) Achievement Award
- 2025 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award
- Recognized for creative education efforts, successful events, and broad public engagement
“Get Rid of Litter” Art Contest Recognition
- Awarded a 2025 National Association of Counties (NACo) Achievement Award
- Celebrated using 3-dimensional recycled art to teach youth about litter prevention and recycling in a hands-on, creative way
Composting Outreach & Education
- Compost-a-Thon Events: First launched in May 2023 with a $10,000 DEQ grant, the R-Board’s Compost-a-Thon reached over 200 participants with free compost bins and starter kits.In FY 2024, a second grant ($15,000) helped host bi-annual Compost-a-Thons and educational booths, distributing 179 compost bins and 420 starter kits to more than 900community members.
- Backyard Composting 101 Classes: Held monthly at local libraries, these sessions help residents start composting at home.Attendees receive a free “Earth Machine” bin and hands-on tips.
Litter Control & Community Cleanups
- Major Impact on Local Roads: In FY 2025, over 113 tons (226,000+ pounds) of litter were removed from roads in Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg.
- Widespread Volunteer Involvement: This effort included 447 volunteers, 161 probationers, and 59 cleanup events, with crucial support from the Rappahannock Regional Jail and Youth Services Office.
- Cleanup Support Programs: R-Board offers neighborhoods a 40-yard container for local cleanups (available for$450), including supplies and haul-off, making it easy for residents to organize litter-free events.
Electronics Recycling & Hazardous 91ֿ
- E-91ֿ Program: In partnership with the Aquia Harbour Lions Club, R-Board recycled 119,462 pounds of electronics in FY 2024. The program earned a 2024 Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award for its innovation and environmental benefit.
- Hazardous 91ֿ & Oil Collection: In FY 2022 alone: o5,227 lb of electronics and 9,310 lb of hazardous materials were collected during special events. More than 25,000 gallons of oil/antifreeze and 18,244 linear feet of fluorescent bulbs were collected year-round
- Recycling Programs: In FY 2022, 1,565 tons of single-stream recyclables were processed through drop-off and curbside (City) programs, helping divert materials from the landfill.
Education & Environmental Awareness
- Mobile Education Trailer: The R-Board’s revamped Environmental Education Trailer brings interactive lessons on composting, marine debris, and recycling to schools and events.
- Community Engagement: In FY 2024, the R-Board connected with 17,000+ residents, including 10,500 K–12students, through school visits, workshops, Earth Day festivals, and community tabling.
- 3D Art Contest Success: The “Get Rid of Litter” Recycled Art Contest encouraged students to build sculptures from found and recyclable items. Winning entries were displayed publicly, promoting environmental awareness in a fun, student-led way.
Impact at a Glance
| Program Area | FY 2024 Highlights |
| Composting | VaCo & Governor’s Award winner, 900+ participants, 179 bins, 420 kits |
| Litter Control | 113+ tons removed, 447 volunteers, 59 cleanup events |
| Recycling | 119k lb electronics, 1,565 tons single-stream, hazardous waste collected |
| Education | 17,000+ reached, NACo-winning 3D art contest, mobile trailer outreach |
The R-Board’s outreach achievements prove that local government can inspire big change. By combining environmental education, hands-on programs, and award-winning innovation, the R-Board is helping residents take action—one compost bin, cleanup day, and recycled sculpture at a time.
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