The Monterey County area, with its moderate, Mediterranean climate, is a diverse community set in a picturesque location.  Low-rolling foothills, scenic valleys, groves of redwoods, spectacular mountain ranges, and miles of beautiful beaches, are characteristics that contribute to the high quality of life enjoyed by over 400,000 residents of the County.  The City of Salinas, with a population of over 150,000, is the County Seat, and serves as home to Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority.  Known as the ‘Salad Bowl of the World’, Salinas is famous for its’ agricultural production and has an ideal climate for both the floral industry and viniculture, which combine with more than 100 manufacturing entities to create a strong local economy.