The R&E Center

Screenshot of R&E Center virtual tour

Touring the R&E Center

All trash generated by individuals and businesses in Ramsey and Washington counties is delivered to the R&E Center, where waste is processed to recover recyclables and make fuel for electricity production. Tours highlight how the facility works and how waste is managed in the East Metro as well as how to better reduce, reuse and recycle.  Visit our ‘About the R&E Center’ page for more information.

General Information
  • Tours are free.
  • Group tours are available to groups of five or more, and to individuals or smaller groups through a Community Tour (see request forms below).
  • Language interpreters are available upon request.
Facility Information and Tour Program
  • The R&E Center processes trash. Recyclables go to a different facility depending on your hauler. Recyclables are recovered in our operations, but this is not a materials recovery facility (the term for a recycling facility). Contact your hauler if you are interested in seeing where your recyclables go.
  • The tour typically includes a presentation, a participatory activity and observation of certain areas of the facility. Safety is the priority at our facility so only certain areas are accessible for visitors.
  • Preview the tour content and walking route.
Transportation and Safety
  • Confirmed visitors will receive an email with Travel, Parking and Safety Information. Please review this information before arriving. There are multiple entrances and parking lots at the facility. 
  • Some groups may also be asked to complete a Safety and Liability Waiver.  
  • Transportation by school bus is eligible for reimbursement for K-12 groups.
Please read the group descriptions below and fill out the appropriate tour request.
  • Community members
  • Higher education
  • Youth organization
  • Religious/Faith-based organization
  • Industry organization
  • Governmental organization
  • Business/Professional
  • Public, private, charter and homeschool groups
  • R&E, Ramsey or Washington County staff
  • Pre-scheduled tours
  • Join a community tour if you are an individual or a group of four or less
  • 20 spots are available for each tour
Virtual Tour

Interested in taking a peek inside the Recycling & Energy Center? Take a virtual tour here!

Off-site Presentations

Staff are also available to present at community meetings about what happens at the R&E Center. Contact us at tours@recyclingandenergy.org to schedule.