For 25 years, Re:Source—formerly known as the Marion Resource Recovery Facility—has been at the heart of Marion County’s waste and recycling system. Founded in 1999 by a collective of eight franchised, family-owned curbside waste collection companies with roots dating back generations, Re:Source was built on collaboration, community stewardship, and a shared commitment to safeguarding the region’s natural resources. Those eight owners include Republic Services of Marion County, Republic Services of Salem, D&O Garbage Service, Pacific Sanitation, Loren’s Sanitation, Suburban Garbage, Valley Recycling & Disposal, and North Marion Recycling & Disposal. Together, these locally connected companies formed a unified solution to manage the county’s growing waste needs responsibly and efficiently.
Established under a 20-year agreement, the facility was originally designed as a construction and demolition recovery operation, reclaiming recyclable materials from debris collected through local haulers’ drop box services. Over time, Re:Source has evolved into a state-of-the-art waste processing facility serving residents, contractors, and businesses across Marion County. Yet at its core, the mission remains unchanged: to move waste in the right direction—toward recovery, reuse, and responsible disposal.
A Mission Rooted in Innovation and Stewardship
Re:Source’s mission is clear:
“We support Marion County with innovative waste management and resource recovery services, for today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.”
Its vision reflects a forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility:
“A local community where waste is processed to redeem usable resources, where loads are consolidated to reduce carbon emissions, and where tons are diverted from landfills — so our neighbors and our planet can thrive, now and into the future.”
Through advanced compacting equipment and a combination of innovative machinery and hands-on sorting, Re:Source ensures that waste is properly processed and directed to its next best destination. The facility consolidates loads to reduce the number of semi-truck trips required, leading to:
- Less semi-truck traffic and road wear
- Lower fuel consumption
- Reduced emissions
- Decreased transportation costs
By shortening the distance haulers must travel and creating more efficient loads, Re:Source minimizes environmental impact while strengthening Marion County’s local waste infrastructure.
Comprehensive Services for a Growing Community
Re:Source handles a wide range of materials and waste streams, ensuring that reusable resources are recovered and remaining materials are transported responsibly.
Reasons to Reach Out to Re:Source:
- Material Recovery (construction and demolition waste, including cardboard, wood, rock, and metals)
- Public Drop-Off for household waste and recyclables
- Public Recycle Depot for commingle materials
- Facility Tours and Education Room Experiences
- Contractor construction and demolition recovery services
Whether processing neighborhood curbside carts, construction debris, or public transfer station waste, Re:Source plays a critical role in ensuring Marion County’s waste is managed efficiently and sustainably.
Education, Community, and the Future
Beyond processing waste, Re:Source is committed to inspiring the next generation. Its interactive educational space provides hands-on learning opportunities designed to demonstrate how responsible choices today lead to a better tomorrow. By welcoming students and community members for tours and training sessions, the organization fosters environmental awareness and empowers future leaders to embrace sustainability.
Community commitment runs deep. As the organization proudly states, “Re:Source doesn’t just operate in Marion County, this is where we were born.” With a philosophy centered on stewardship, innovation, and community over profit, every initiative—from processing construction waste to consolidating loads for efficiency—is aimed at benefiting local residents and protecting the environment they share.
A Responsible Waste Management System
At its advanced processing facility in Salem, Re:Source leverages modern technology to achieve one of the highest recovery rates in Oregon. By reclaiming valuable materials such as scrap metal, cardboard, wood, rock, compostable organics, and recyclables, the organization diverts significant tonnage from local landfills.
After materials are sorted and compacted, they are transported either to approved processing facilities for repurposing or, when necessary, to the landfill in the most efficient manner possible.
For Marion County residents, contractors, and waste collection companies, Re:Source serves as the essential link between disposal and renewal. By combining innovation, collaboration, and a deep commitment to community well-being, Re:Source continues to carry the load—guiding waste toward a cleaner, brighter, and more sustainable future.
