Otter Tail County announces the hiring of Natalee Yates as the new Public Information and Education Officer (PIEO) in the Solid Waste Department. Yates brings extensive environmental expertise and a passion for community education to the county鈥檚 recycling and waste reduction programs.
Yates was born in Virginia and earned a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Conservation from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg. She dedicated 10 years to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, working across diverse landscapes before relocating to Fergus Falls in 2017. Her specialized work focused on waterfowl surveys and banding, along with expertise in data management and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
In her new position, Yates will collaborate with schools, businesses, and community organizations to share educational programming covering recycling, composting, waste reduction, and sustainable practices. She will facilitate tours of solid waste facilities, distribute educational materials, and serve as a primary resource for teachers and organizations seeking to incorporate environmental education into their curriculum.
Chris McConn, Solid Waste Director, emphasized the importance of the PIEO role in Otter Tail County. 鈥淗aving someone with Natalee鈥檚 environmental background and communication skills will enhance our outreach to businesses, teachers, and community organizations with recycling and waste reduction education.鈥�
Reflecting on her new role, Yates expressed enthusiasm for expanding her environmental impact. 鈥淚 have a lifelong commitment to the environment. I am excited to expand my impact from wildlife to waste reduction,鈥� said Yates. 鈥淪olid waste affects everyone directly, and I am excited to work with a variety of people. I am looking forward to giving tours of the facilities and showing people that the choices they make have real impacts.鈥�