The Corporation of Shepherdstown released a statement for a new policy about recycling glass, effective immediately.

Due to a national trend that is now affecting Shepherdstown, the state of West Virginia along with Apple Valley Recycling Center, Shepherdstown’s recycling vendor, can no longer accept glass of any color. According to a source at Apple Valley Recycling Center, recycled glass is no longer in demand. Unfortunately, this trend has been moving toward a reduction or elimination of glass the last several years, according to Frank Welch, Public Works Director.

Apple Valley Waste said that they could look at picking up glass again in the future if demand increases. Meanwhile, residents can still take glass recyclables to Jefferson County Solid Waste Authority, 332 Jefferson Orchard Road in Kearneysville.

In Berkeley County, glass can be dropped off Tuesday through Saturday, 111 Landfill Drive, Martinsburg, (off of Grapevine Road) or 637 Pilgrim Street in Inwood. Call Berkeley County Recycling at 304-267-9370 for more information.

West Virginia is not the only state that has lost its market for recycling glass. Maryland and Virginia, have seen a decline in glass recycling revenue and therefor have deemed it not profitable to collect.

What does this mean for Shepherdstown?

Effective immediately, the Corporation of Shepherdstown and Apple Valley Waste Recycling Center require that glass no longer be placed in the recycling bins. They now must be included with the regular trash pick up.

Representatives from the corporation apologize and are disheartened by this change and are exploring alternatives for the town’s glass products. For and questions, concerns or suggestions, please call The Corporation of Shepherdstown

Frank Welch, Supervisor, Public Works Department 304-876-3322.