Organic Recycling at ECI “Helping to Build A Better Tommorrow" Rosetta Rose, Deputy Director of Procurement Services| Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services

What is ECI?  Eastern Correctional Institution (ECI) is a multi-compound facility in Westover, Maryland operating under the State of Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.  Compounds participating in the Organic Waste Recycling program are:  West Complex – mirror imaged medium security complex housing approximately 2,400 inmates equally divide on each side  Annex – minimum security housing approximately 600 inmates.

The Start of Organic Waste Recycling at ECI  September 2012, ECI recognized the need to find a better use for organic waste material.  An Invitation for Bid was developed and released in September of  In February of 2014, the Organic Waste Recycling program was implemented within the dining area of the West complex.  In April 2014m the Organic Waste Recycling Program was implemented within the dining area of the Annex complex.

The Process  Green 44 gallon Brute trash cans have been identified in the dining area as Organic Waste.  An inmate is assigned the task of ensuring that only Organic Waste materials are placed in the designated trash cans.  Green cans are dumped daily into the designated 35 yard compactors and clean in preparation for the next meal time.  Contracted vendor picks up the compactor once per week.

What are the Environmentally Benefits?  Organic waste materials are diverted from landfill and delivered to organic composting facilities, which reduces landfill pollution.  Organic waste materials are composted and used to produce nutrient rich organic fertilizer.  Local Farmers purchase the fertilizer at a reduced cost, while still providing nutrient produce, fruits and vegetables for human consumption.

How Much Organic Materials Has ECI Produced? West ComplexAnnex Complex March Tons0 April Tons2.40 Tons May Tons12.41 Tons

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