The South Carolina Wildlife Federation (SCWF) is fortunate to partner with companies all over the state for the Wildlife and Industry Together (W.A.I.T.) Program. W.A.I.T. creates an opportunity for organizations to restore wildlife habitat on their properties, provide educational opportunities for their staff, and participate in community outreach with their local schools and/or neighborhoods.

This month, SCWF is shining a spotlight on W.A.I.T. partner Michelin US2 in Sandy Springs, South Carolina. Read our
Q&A with their W.A.I.T. team to learn more about the awesome work they are doing!

1. Tell us a bit about Michelin US2: Michelin in Sandy Springs, SC (US2) manufactures rubber products that are used in the tire-making process at our other Manufacturing facilities.  US2 operates 24 hours each day and approximately 350 days per year to keep up with demand. Michelin offers great benefits to employees including access to an onsite medical center, an onsite gym, an onsite outdoor nature trail, and many more amenities. Leading a healthy lifestyle and participating in community events is a high priority and proves to be very fulfilling for many employees. US2 proudly sponsors three main local organizations each year: Anderson County United Way, March of Dimes, and a partnership with Townville
   Elementary. As of 2017, US2 has reached a goal of Zero Waste to Landfill by reducing waste generated and by sending various waste streams to be recycled into other cool products.

2. What was your organization’s motivation for partnering with SCWF and the W.A.I.T. program?
   Being a part of the Manufacturing Industry, it can be difficult to overcome the common mindset that
   you can make a great product and still care about the environmental impact that is made around you. At US2
   we have a beautiful property of trees and natural springs that is perfect for supporting a wildlife habitat.

3. What is your team’s favorite element of their wildlife habitat? The 1.5-mile nature
   trail allows employees and their families to get outside and enjoy native vegetation and wildlife right in
   our front yard. The trail walks you through a field of orchard trees and by a huge Oak with a tree swing
   that makes you feel like a kid again.  You will cross multiple bridges to enjoy the natural springs that run
   to 3&20 creek all while sighting the hawks flying through the air and enjoying the various birds chirp
   in the woods.

4. How has your participation in the W.A.I.T. program impacted your community? US2 has
   partnered with one of our local elementary schools, Townville Elementary, and we have helped them build an
   outdoor class room.  This allows students the opportunity to enjoy a breath of fresh air on a beautiful day
   while learning in a fun, outdoor environment.  They can also actively participate in growing their own food
   in the gardening beds that were put in place.

5. What wildlife, or wildlife centered event (on your property) does your team enjoy the most?
   Our Carolina Fence Garden, constructed over 20 years ago, remains a staple at the entrance of our
   building. It is a nice green space for employees to see and contains elements of our State icons including a
   split rail fence, yellow jasmine, bird houses, and a water feature.

6. Where can people go to keep up with your organization (website, social media, etc.)?
   US2 does not have an individual website, but please check out our Michelin website to keep updated on the latest
   news and to browse through our tire selection!

Did you like learning about Michelin US2 and think your business might be a fit for the W.A.I.T. program?
Contact Jay Keck to learn more!