Dilyard honored with conservation awards for decades of recycling leadership

Tom Dilyard was recognized for decades of leadership in recycling and environmental stewardship during a recent meeting of the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, from both local and regional environmental partners, receiving a Public Service Award from the Stark, Tuscarawas, Wayne Recycling District and the 2025 Conservation Education Award from the Soil and Water Conservation District.

Dilyard has long served as a driving force behind the recycling program at the Wayne County Fair, one of the largest and most active county fairs in Ohio. Since the program’s launch in 2009, fair recycling efforts have expanded significantly, growing from roughly 30 collection containers to more than 80 recycling and food-waste containers placed throughout the fairgrounds each year.

As part of the program, volunteers collect cardboard, aluminum cans, plastics and food waste. Dilyard works closely with a team of fair volunteers, FFA members and partner organizations to ensure materials are properly collected and sorted. Over the life of the program, more than 120 tons of recyclable material have been diverted from landfills.

Recycling operations at the fair have grown more complex in recent years due to changes in the international market, which have significantly tightened contamination standards for recyclable materials.

Dilyard helped establish a systematic, on-site sorting process at the fairgrounds to ensure materials are clean, dry and properly separated.

Dilyard’s commitment to recycling extends beyond the fairgrounds. During his career at the Wayne County Care Center, he helped implement and expand a facility-wide recycling program, encouraging staff and residents to recycle cardboard and other materials.

David Held, executive director of the Stark, Tuscarawas, Wayne Recycling District, said Dilyard is one of Wayne County’s most dedicated champions of recycling.

“His work has been highlighted in local publications for its positive community impact and credited him with helping fairgoers, co-workers and volunteers better understand responsible recycling practices,” Held said.

SWCD education specialist Kelly Riley said Dilyard’s efforts reflect professional commitment and a personal passion for improving the community. His example, she said, continues to benefit Wayne County residents and the broader region through education, partnership and sustained environmental leadership.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.