Recycling resourcefulness

Recycling is often thought of as a simple concept. In practice, especially in a place like Northwest Montana, it is anything but. 

At the Daily Inter Lake, it is something we think about more than most. Over the past year, we recycled 336,000 pounds of newsprint, roughly the equivalent of 70 Ford F-150s. That paper does not go to waste. It is repurposed and made into new newsprint, continuing a cycle that is both practical and necessary. Our newsprint is also sourced roughly four hours from here, manufactured in the U.S., and our friends at Pacific Steel make the long journey “up the hill” to our plant each week to collect our recyclables. 

For this month’s edition of Insights, we take a closer look at what recycling actually looks like across the Flathead Valley. Who is doing the work? How does it function at a local level? And what impact does it really have?

Reporter Taylor Inman explores the broader recycling ecosystem in our region, from established operations to smaller, community-driven efforts. What emerges is a clearer understanding of both the challenges and opportunities. While Montana’s recycling rate still trails the national average by 13%, individuals and businesses are finding ways to adapt, innovate, and contribute in meaningful ways. 

Our accompanying profile highlights Ryan Ellis, whose approach reflects that same mindset on a more personal scale. What started as a long-standing habit of collecting cans has grown into a structured effort that supports local nonprofits. By placing collection trailers throughout the community and sharing proceeds, he has created a system that encourages participation while giving back. 

Across the valley, that same mindset shows up in different ways. At Black Bear Recycling, for example, glass is collected and processed locally, despite the added cost and complexity that often make it impractical in rural markets.  

Together, these stories point to something larger than recycling. They reflect a kind of resourcefulness that continues to define this community, a willingness to see value where others might not, and to act in ways that, over time, add up. 

It is a reminder that progress does not always come from sweeping change. More often, it is built through steady, practical efforts that make a difference close to home. 

Thank you for reading, and for continuing to support the work that brings these stories forward. And don’t forget to drop this edition of Insights into the recycling bin when you’re finished reading. 

Anton Kaufer is the Regional Publisher for Hagadone Media Montana.