Page 13 - MayJune2026 Vol 44 No 1

Funding Composting Education PW Spotlight: Rick Cooper From page 10
Backyard Composting Workshops are relatively low cost
due to strong community partnerships and bulk purchasing How does your Agency support your involvement with TCAPWA?
options. Additionally, supplemental funding has played an The City of Chattanooga Public Works Department strongly
important role in expanding Knoxville’s composting efforts. supports my involvement with TCAPWA by encouraging
Grant support has allowed the City to scale its programming, professional development and participation in industry events.
providing composting equipment to residents, and investing The agency recognizes the value of networking, training, and
in broader education and outreach. collaboration that TCAPWA provides, and allows time for
The City of Knoxville has received funding through attendance at conferences, meetings, and the Equipment Rodeo. This
both the USDA Composting and Food Waste Reduction support not only benefits individual growth but also brings back
Grant and the Tennessee Department of Environment and knowledge, best practices, and innovative ideas that strengthen our
Conservation (TDEC) Organics Management Grant. These operations and service to the community.
funding sources have supported composting education Have you been able to transfer your experiences from TCAPWA to
initiatives, infrastructure, and long-term waste diversion your work in your Agency or vice versa?
efforts that extend beyond the workshops themselves. Yes, the experience has absolutely gone both ways. Through my
Learn More: The Knoxville Compost Project TCAPWA involvement, I’ve gained insight into best practices,
Residents and municipal partners interested in Knoxville’s innovative equipment uses, safety standards, and leadership
composting initiatives can learn more at KnoxvilleTN.gov/ strategies that I’ve been able to implement within the Public Works
Compost. The site serves as a central hub for The Knoxville Department. At the same time, the operational knowledge and real-
Compost Project, featuring workshop information, world experience from managing large teams and complex services
educational resources, and updates on the City’s ongoing have allowed me to contribute practical perspectives and ideas back
composting and food waste reduction efforts. to TCAPWA, creating a strong exchange of knowledge that benefits
A Model for Other Communities both the agency and the organization.
Knoxville’s Backyard Composting Workshops demonstrate Any commendations or awards?
how Public Works departments can combine education, I was honored to receive the Public Works Manager of the
partnerships, and infrastructure support to reduce waste and Year Award under the leadership of Mayor Andy Berke and
foster environmental stewardship. With relatively simple Administrator Lee Norris. In addition, I maintain CPR certification
logistics and strong community collaboration, municipalities and have completed specialized training in areas such as snow and
can help residents turn everyday waste into a valuable local ice removal, street paving, and workplace safety, all of which help me
resource, proving that sustainability starts right at home. lead my teams effectively and ensure safe, efficient operations.

View online at tnpublicworks.com 13