Freeborn County is part of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s Regional Household Hazardous Waste Program. Leona Hagen volunteers her time with this organization.

Four times a year, she can be found at the sanitary landfill handing out surveys to people bringing their household waste to the landfill. The survey and the volunteers determine if the people are from Freeborn County, how many households the waste is coming from, the reason for the trip to the landfill and whether the waste is in fact household hazardous waste.

Hagen has been working as a volunteer for this program for four years and said she likes helping keep the environment clean and safe.

She also volunteers her time with Meals on the Go as well and has volunteered for the Minnesota Literacy Program for more than 10 years.

She said she enjoys being active within her community and although she’s in her early 80s, she doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.

When asked what the secret of staying healthy and happy is she replied, &uot;keeping myself busy by helping others, reading every day and playing bridge.&uot;

If you are interested in volunteering for this organization, call the Environmental Services office at (507) 377-5258.