Bridgestone Wilson Plant Gets Wildlife Re-Certification

The 300-acre Freedom Wildlife Habitat and Refuge at the Bridgestone Americas tire plant in Wilson, N.C., was recently re-certified under the Wildlife Habitat Council’s Corporate Lands for Learning and Wildlife at Work programs.

“We are very excited to attain Wildlife Habitat Council re-certification,” said Jim Pridgen, Wilson plant manager. “Our habitat gives us a great opportunity to reach out to the local community and young people with a hands-on environmental message.”

More than 1,000 students and visitors have attended a program or event at the habitat since its founding in 2005. In March 2009, the habitat hosted the Area IV Envirothon, where more than 500 middle school students from 11 counties in North Carolina competed on their knowledge of environmental issues and areas, such as aquatics, forestry and soils.

The facility has also partnered with the Wilson Soil and Water Conservation District and the Tar River Chapter of the Wild Turkey Federation on projects at the habitat.

The Wilson facility employs more than 1,800 and produces passenger and light truck/SUV tires.

McCarthy Tire Service recently opened a new in-house commercial wheel refinishing facility. According to the company, the facility has the ability to refinish over 1,000 wheels per day and technicians will utilize equipment for inspection, surface preparation, pre-treatment, and automated coating techniques at the facility.

“We're thrilled to unveil this wheel refinishing facility,” John McCarthy Jr., president of McCarthy Tire Service said. “This investment reflects our dedication to providing our customers with unparalleled efficiency and a one-stop shop for all their commercial tire and wheel needs. By streamlining the refinishing process, we can help fleets minimize downtime and maximize productivity.”