US Composting Council Announces the Hiring of its New Executive Director

RONKONKOMA, NEW YORK (September 16, 2011) – The United States Composting Council (USCC) is delighted to announce the hiring of Michael Virga as its new Executive Director, effective today.  Mr. Virga, formerly the Executive Director of Forestry at the American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA), has been engaged in sustainability efforts throughout his thirty-year career.

“Michael brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the USCC, as well as a seasoned business ethic, that will help our members facilitate the growth of composting and organics recycling through education, communication and public policy,” said Frank Franciosi, President of the USCC.

Recognizing the efforts of outgoing Executive Director, Stuart Buckner, Mr. Franciosi stated, “the success of the highly-regarded USCC Annual Conference and Trade Show can be attributed to Stuart.  I want to thank him for his leadership of the organization over the last several years.”

Mr. Virga has been a strong spokesman on environmental issues and has a long track record of delivering value to trade association members and stakeholders.  “The recycling of organic materials is central to achieving healthy soils, clean water and a sustainable society.  I am proud to have the opportunity to further grow and expand this industry – we have not yet reached our full potential.” said Virga.

USCC Vice President and President of Turning Earth, LLC, Andrew Kessler commented, “Michael’s strategy is to grow the industry by focusing on our members – delivering value to them to enable them to thrive.  We are really excited about our future under Michael’s leadership.”

About the USCC

Established in 1990, the USCC is the only national organization in the United States dedicated to the development, expansion and promotion of the composting industry.  The USCC achieves this mission by encouraging, supporting and performing compost related research, promoting best management practices, establishing standards, educating professionals and the public about the benefits of composting and compost utilization, enhancing compost product quality, and developing training materials for composters and markets for compost products.  USCC members include compost producers, marketers, equipment manufacturers, product suppliers, academic institutions, public agencies, nonprofit groups and consulting/engineering firms.

The USCC is a non-profit 501(c)(6) organization that also directs the Composting Council Research and Education Foundation (CCREF), a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, which administers public and private research and education activities.