A "fort-unate" reuse partnership

By: Bailey Grimmett

Austin's Recycle and Reuse Center accepts hard-to-recycle items like Styrofoam, plastic bags, old electronics and household hazardous waste for special recycling to keep them out of the landfill. But did you know the center also accepts tires for a small fee? Most tires are shredded and used in playgrounds or on recreational surfaces for public use. Recently, some tires were put to creative use.

Through a (and fort-unate) partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Recycle and Reuse Center donated more than 100 tires for an upcoming project as part of the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center's annual Fortlandia exhibit. With these tires, Texas Parks and Wildlife created the Snake, Rattle & Roll! fort. It is a giant rattlesnake made from more than 100 tires, and was on display at Fortlandia through in 2020.

The Snake, Rattle and Roll! fort is a great example of how everyday items and materials (like our car tires) can be reused and given a second life. Thanks to Austin and Travis County residents, more than 100 tires were kept out of the landfill and are now benefiting our community. Tire-rrific job, Austin!