May 23, 2008

Attend the Concerts at Marymoor for free, while pitching in with King County’s recycling program

King County Parks is encouraging groups and individuals to be a part of the volunteer “Marymoor Recycling Crew” at this summer’s Concerts at Marymoor. Recycling Crew volunteers get free entry when they help promote recycling and waste reduction during shows.

Based on 2007’s successful pilot effort, the volunteer “Marymoor Recycling Crew” will play a key role in the division’s ongoing commitment to address the environmental impacts of hosting large, popular outdoor events such as the Concerts at Marymoor.

Recycling Crew volunteers will promote recycling and composting at the concerts, which take place from June through September. Crew volunteers will also teach concert-goers about sorting their recyclable and compostable materials, and help keep the Marymoor concert venue free of litter.

In exchange for their work to safeguard the environment, Recycling Crew volunteers receive free entry and parking to the shows at which they volunteer. A minimum commitment of three concerts is preferred, and shift hours vary depending on show times. Training will be provided on site. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, and service learning credit is available.

In 2007, Parks worked with the King County Master Recycler Composter Program, Puget Sound Energy and radio station KMTT FM -The Mountain to reduce the environmental impacts of the concert series. In addition to the recycling and composting initiative, actions included off-setting carbon emissions with wind energy credits and offering VIP parking for hybrid vehicle drivers.

During the 2007 Concerts at Marymoor series, Parks diverted 104 cubic yards of recyclable and compostable material from the landfill, which represented half of the waste generated by the shows.

In 2008, Parks will once again place recycling stations around the Marymoor concert venue. Recycling Crew volunteers will be on hand to help concert-goers sort food scraps, biodegradable cups and other items into the appropriate bins: recycle, compost or garbage.

“We are encouraging groups from workplaces, universities, and community and faith-based organizations to participate in this fun volunteer opportunity,” said King County Parks Director Kevin Brown. “What a great way to enjoy top national music acts while doing something good for the park and the environment.”

Volunteers will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis, and interested volunteers are encouraged to sign up today and submit their concert requests.

Details are available by contacting Marymoor Park, at 206-205-3661, or marymoorpark@kingcounty.gov. Include your name, contact information, telephone number, and how you heard about volunteering, and identify the shows for which you are interested in volunteering.

King County Parks - Your Big Backyard - offers more than 25,000 acres of parks and natural lands, including such regional treasures as Marymoor Park and Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, 175 miles of regional trails, plus pools and a world-class aquatic center. By cultivating strong relationships with non-profit, corporate and community partners, King County Parks enhances park amenities while reducing costs. Learn more at http://www.metrokc.gov/parks/.

Related Information:

Concerts at Marymoor

King County Parks and Recreation