Santa Fe ReUse Center Diverts 80 Tons of Waste After Year-Long Rat Closure

The Eldorado ReUse Center reopened in early October after a closure that lasted approximately one year. The facility had been shut down by Santa Fe County officials following a complaint filed with the state Environment Department regarding rodent feces.

Elizabeth Maclaren, an organizer at the center, stated that the group implemented new measures over the past twelve months to resolve the issues that triggered the shutdown. These changes include the installation of metal shelving units positioned at least 18 inches above the floor. Maclaren described the current condition of the space, noting, “We’re so happy it’s open again. It looks wonderful. It’s clean. It’s organized.”

The center operates as a joint initiative between Santa Fe County Solid Waste and the nonprofit Eldorado/285 Recycle. Since its launch in 2013, it has provided residents with free access to discarded but usable or repairable goods. In 2024, the operation diverted roughly 80 tons of waste from the landfill.

County officials outlined new policy changes in a statement issued upon the reopening. The center no longer accepts books, magazines, fuzzy fabrics, or cushioning materials, as these items provide suitable nesting material for rodents. Staff are also applying stricter selection criteria for wood items, which are more likely to attract pests.

Daily operations now include a mandatory inspection before the doors open. A volunteer sweeps the area thoroughly each morning to ensure the space is ready for shoppers. County staff and volunteers expect these protocols will maintain the cleanliness and functionality of the site.