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Putnam Tox-Away Day set this Saturday at Area 30
West Central Solid Waste District will host Putnam County Tox-Away Day on Saturday, May 13 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. The event will be held rain or shine at Area 30 Career Center (across from Greencastle Walmart.)
During 2022 Tox-Away Days, Parke and Putnam County residents participated in the recycling and proper disposal of 71 tons of toxic/hazardous materials and problem wastes. This is a great way to rid garages, sheds and barns of old pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and other hazardous items in containers up to five-gallon size (no drums please.) If disposed of improperly, this type of material is dangerous to the health of humans, animals and the environment.
Persons trained in handling hazardous wastes will unload the items you bring in a safe, drive through environment. Residents are reminded to remain in their vehicle at all times. Small or mixed items should be visible in a box or container to allow for easy identification and safe handling.
Electronics such as computers, cell phones, and game consoles cannot go into the trash or landfill. Bring electronics and appliances to this special event free of charge (exception: $20 fee for any size TV.)
Tox-Away Days are also opportunities to dispose of old tires that can collect water and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Car/light truck tires are accepted free for the first six tires/$2 each additional up to 12 total.
WCSWD continues to assist farmers with the high disposal costs of whole tractor tires over 54 inches by paying $65 of the $90 per tire contractor fee. Farmers can also quarter these oversized tires and recycle the first two free of charge and pay only $5 each for two additional tractor tires.
Tox-Away Days provide the opportunity to safely dispose of toxic, hazardous and problem wastes free of charge (some exceptions) such as:
Appliances (CFC and non-CFC)
Electronics ($20/each for TVs, any size)
Tires (car, truck, tractor, other.)
Automotive additives (fuel, oil, antifreeze)
Oil-based paint, stain, varnish, paint thinner
Mercury thermometers, fluorescent tubes/CFLs
Pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, poisons
Acids, bases, solvents, chemicals/cleaners
Medications (non-controlled) and sharps
Organizers ask that no one arrived prior to 7:45, as this causes traffic congestion and interferes with event set-up. Earlier times tend to be busier, so plan accordingly.
Residents are reminded to remain in their vehicle at all times and follow safety protocol as directed.
Latex paint is NOT accepted at Tox-Away Days. Latex paint is water based and considered nonhazardous and should be dried out by mixing with equal parts of cheap kitty litter or sand. Once dried, set it out for trash pick-up with the lid removed so the hauler can see its solidified.
Regulations prohibit the collection of hazardous wastes from businesses, churches, schools and non-profits at these events. Call WCSWD office with any questions at 653-2150.