Sustainable Idaho

Sustainable Idaho: Trash to Treasure: The Power of What We Throw Away

By Holly Wilson,

Published April 7, 2026 at 6:45 AM MDT

In this episode, Holly Wilson, Sustainable Idaho host, speaks with Chris Taylor, the landfill gas plant operator for Bannock County about how the Fort Hall Mine Landfill captures methane and turns it into electricity. Since 2014, the gas-to-energy system has reduced emissions, powered hundreds of homes, and generated over $8.5 million in energy revenue for the county.

A simple idea with a powerful impact turning landfill gases into usable energy right here in Southeast Idaho.

To learn more visit: https://www.bannockcounty.gov/landfill/

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Holly Wilson

Holly Wilson is a sophomore at the College of Business at Idaho State University, double majoring in Economics and Finance. She currently serves as Vice President of the Portneuf Animal Welfare Society, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare and sustainable community practices, and is also President of the ISU Economics Club. Holly has also worked as an ethics tutor in ISU’s Philosophy Department, reflecting her interest in thoughtful, values-driven leadership. A proud Pocatello native, Holly is deeply invested in creating lasting positive change in her hometown.

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Madison Long

Madison Long is a sophomore majoring in Communications and English with concentrations in Multiplatform Journalism and Professional Writing. She enjoys learning about sustainable practices within the local community and how these can expand throughout the state of Idaho. She looks forward to sharing what she learns from researching and through interviewing with field experts!

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