Department of Natural Resources in Hayward, WI.
Source: Maddie Schaffer
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced the recipients of the 2026 Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Awards
In honor of America Recycles Day on Nov. 15, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has announced the recipients of the 2026 Wisconsin Recycling Excellence Awards. Celebrating outstanding achievements in recycling and waste minimization for the past 14 years, the annual program highlights innovative strategies and proven efforts that inspire organizations across the state to enhance their environmental stewardship. This year, 18 organizations were recognized for going above and beyond legal requirements.
Award recipients successfully diverted substantial amounts of landfill-banned items—including electronics and household recyclables—along with organic waste, plastics, scrap metals, fire extinguishers, bicycles, and textiles for reuse or recycling. DNR Waste Reduction and Diversion Coordinator Jennifer Semrau praised the winners for establishing robust, sustainable diversion programs that significantly cut landfill waste across Wisconsin communities.
The DNR presented awards across four main categories: Projects and Initiatives, Overall Program, Special Events, and Innovation, along with special recognition for honorable mentions.
Todd Coppernoll oversees local news for WRCO and WRCE radio in Richland Center. Having served Richland Center as Mayor for three terms, Todd brings a unique perspective, and a familiar voice to the news. The focus is local, and so is the reporter.
Adam Hess has been involved in radio broadcasting since 1990, with many of those years spent on the air at WRCO FM in Richland Center. Currently, Adam hosts the Weekend Wake-up and Prime Mover Saturdays on WRCO FM, jumps in and helps out with news duties, handles Social Media duties for WRCO and WRCE, and is the Director of Technology at a Southwest Wisconsin School District. Reach him at [email protected].
