Sounds like Michigan is a bit like South Australia. All softdrink bottles (glass and plastic) and also cans are subject to a 5c deposit per item which is redeemed when the empties are returned to the shop or a recycling depot. All other states do have depositories for cans and bottles and you do get paid but it's not a huge incentive to recycle. I think the going rate is about 50c a kg. The good thing is, if one makes a hobby out of it, it makes a good tax-free suppliment to one's income.
When I was a kid I used to take some wool bales down to Concord Oval where the international Rugby Union games used to be played and, with the groundsman's blessing, fill then up with cans (squashed of course) and then ring my old man to come and get me. Gone are those days.
