The Recycling Zone of Dakota County Provides Convenient Community Recycling

Gopher Resource has operated The Recycling Zone in Dakota County, Minnesota, since it opened in 1993. The facility provides recycling and household hazardous waste collection – most at no charge – for surrounding residents and small businesses. With nearly 70,000 visitors annually, the facility is a powerful example of how local citizens, the government, and private business can collaborate for long-term environmental good.

You’ve heard of one-stop shopping. Now, there’s one-stop dropping – at The Recycling Zone. The Recycling Zone includes a drop-off process that allows residents to stay in their vehicles. With a driver’s license or identification in hand, drivers first stop at an exterior kiosk to have their card scanned. From there, drivers are directed into a specific drop-off lane where staff unload vehicles. NOTE: Items must be in bags or containers that residents are willing to leave behind.

In 2024, The Recycling Zone collected over 2.5 million pounds of hazardous waste, of which 1.1 million pounds were electronics. The facility also collected over 1.3 million pounds of aluminum, plastics, glass, and paper recyclables. In addition, it has helped facilitate the reuse of over 400,000 pounds of paint, cleaning supplies, and other materials.