WYANDOTTE, Okla. – The Wyandotte Nation will have a grand opening for its newly constructed Lost Creek Recycling Center April 11 at 11 a.m. The public is invited to attend the dedication.

The Lost Creek Recycling Center, a 4,000-square foot building located at 4 Lost Creek Drive (behind the Bearskin Fitness Center) in Wyandotte, Okla., is open to the community and surrounding area Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The facility is also available after hours and during business hours when attendants are out on collection by providing 24-hour drop boxes.

Christen Lee, Environmental Director for the Wyandotte Nation, said the facility can accept the following materials: paper, plastic, cardboard, tin and aluminum. During special events, e-waste and other materials may be allowed.

Construction began in August 2012 and was completed for around $200,000.

Lee said community input early in the process was crucial for the Wyandotte Nation to develop a plan to best serve the recycling needs of the area.

Funding for the project came in part from a cooperative national grant from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Indian Health Services (IHS) and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). The $104,000 grant was one of just five awarded in the U.S.

An Indian Reservation Roads (IRR) grant covered the cost of the driveway and parking lot at the facility. The Wyandotte Nation funded the rest of the project not covered by the grants.

Area businesses interested in having a recycle bin can call (918) 678-2297, ext. 241.

Lee said they would also like to work with schools, scouts, 4-H groups and other organizations. Those interested are encouraged to contact the Wyandotte Nation, (918) 678-2297, ext. 241.