I caught this on Dot Earth via Treehugger.

A Zen Buddhist Temple in Ann Arbor, Michigan goes dumpster diving to raise money for their temple. They polish up the items, whether it be clothing or furnishings and sell it at their annual yard sale.

From this article, I found the Environmental Report which lead me to the Wiki How Tips on Dumpster Diving.

A few cardinal rules:

* Do not leave a mess!

* Know the law. Sometimes trash is considered private property and homeowners or businesses can call the cops.

* Be careful. There could be broken glass and other sharp objects. And rats.

* Wear the right cloths. Bring a car. Clean all items thoroughly.

* Late night and early mornings are best.

I’ve found doors, coffee tables, a newell post and paintings in the trash. My favorite find was the highly detailed Victorian toilet someone threw out in Park Slope. I nearly caused an accident stopping for that one!