1.06.2003 ET

(CSRwire) LIVONIA TOWNSHIP, MN - Waste Management of Minnesota (NYSE: WMI) today announced that the Waste Management Charitable Foundation has donated $35,000 to the Sugarbush Preserve in Livonia Township. The Sugarbush Preserve is an old-growth forest that features the last remaining undisturbed stand of sugar maple, basswood, red oak and American elm in Sherburne County.

Efforts to preserve this natural area are coming to fruition through a partnership between the Trust for Public Land, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Livonia Township. The Trust for Public Land, a national conservation organization, acquired the forest from a land development company in August 2002, affording local officials the necessary time to fundraise for its permanent protection.

"As an environmental services company, Waste Management is committed to contributing to projects that benefit the communities it serves," said Steve Batchelor, Market Area Vice President for Waste Management. "By supporting the Sugarbush project, we are able to help preserve a unique old-growth forest that will serve as a retreat not only for people, but for many kinds of wildlife as well."

"A protection effort like this depends on local commitment and support from area businesses," said Susan Schmidt, Minnesota State Director for the Trust for Public Land. "Communities throughout the metro region are witnessing a tremendous loss of space and wetlands. Livonia and the Minnesota DNR are setting a tremendous example for others to follow. We applaud Waste Management's commitment to supporting this preservation effort."

Waste Management is one of several groups that are donating the funds needed to permanently protect the 40 acres of the forest. Once fundraising is completed, the city of Livonia will own and manage the property as a quiet, natural area for the public. Proposed uses for the preserve include hiking, cross country skiing, picnicking, nature education and wildlife viewing.

Waste Management Inc. is its industry's leading provider of comprehensive waste management services. Based in Houston, the Company serves municipal, commercial, industrial, and residential customers throughout North America.