We have launched our first-ever Illegal Mattress Dumping Census to get a clearer picture of the extent of this issue across Oregon. This initiative is part of MRC’s strategy to satisfy requirements in Senate Bill 1576 (2022) and fulfill elements of our program plan.

MRC has selected Merina+Co to conduct the census and analyze responses. The information will be used to inform pilot projects aimed at reducing illegal mattress dumping and to track progress over time. Ultimately, the census will become part of the data that guides MRC towards making proper disposal easier for everyone.

Every city’s input is a huge help in making this project a success. The census is short, featuring just nine questions and a few quick demographic details, and it takes only five to ten minutes to finish.

To prepare, cities are encouraged to consult with relevant internal departments and gather local dumping counts or reports before clicking the link. Don’t worry if your city doesn’t have exact numbers; any feedback your city can share, formal or informal, is incredibly helpful. The deadline for cities to submit responses is September 30.

Contact Merina+Co with any questions or assistance:

Kimberly Strong, Senior Consultant, kstrong@merina.com.

Ready to share your local insights? Use this link to complete the census. Responses accepted up until September 30.

Oregon local government agencies and solid waste facilities are invited to attend a 30-minute webinar on Tuesday, Sept. 29 to learn about how we will implement the Illegally Dumped Mattress Collection Initiative (IDMCI) in the state.

IDMCI offers its participants financial compensation in exchange for data about illegally dumped mattresses collected out of the public right-of-way. Reporting is simple through the Rubbish web portal.

IDMCI data is used to evaluate rates of illegal dumping in areas served by MRC’s no-cost collection network, as well as to identify relationships between illegal dumping and demographic and socio-economic factors.

DATE: Tues., September 29
TIME: 10 a.m. Pacific
Register here.

We are preparing to open a funding application for pilot projects that aim to reduce illegal mattress dumping in Oregon communities. The potential categories include:

• Public education campaigns that promote legal mattress disposal and recycling options
• Community outreach and enforcement efforts to curb illegal mattress dumping
• Programs that improve access to affordable and convenient mattress collection

More details will be announced soon.