Putnam Tox-Away Day scheduled for May 8

West Central Solid Waste District has announced that Putnam County Tox-Away Day is scheduled for Saturday, May 8.

The 8 a.m.–1 p.m. event will be held rain or shine at Area 30 Career Center (across from the Greencastle Walmart store).

No arrivals will be allowed before 7:45 a.m. as it 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. Skilled personnel will unload items in a safe, drive-through environment. Small or mixed items should be visible in a box or container to allow for easy identification and safe handling.

Last year, 153 tons of toxic/hazardous waste materials were safely removed from the three counties in the district at that time.

“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,” West Central Solid Waste Executive Director Jane Collisi said. “If disposed of improperly, this type of material is dangerous to the health of humans, animals and the environment.”

Electronics such as computers, cell phones and game consoles cannot go into the trash or landfill. Bring your electronics and appliances to these special events free of charge (an exception: $20 fee for any size TV).

Tox-Away Days are opportunities to dispose of old tires that can collect water and become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Car or light truck tires are accepted free for the first six tires, with $2 each additional and tire up to 12 total.

In appreciation for local farmers, WCSWD will again assist in the cost of large ag tires by paying $65 of the $90 fee for “whole” tractor tires more than 54 inches (farmers pay only $25/per whole tire). “Quartered” tractor tires are free for the first two, then $5 each additional.

Latex paint is not accepted at Tox-Away Days. Latex paint is water-based and considered non-hazardous 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 it has solidified.

For a list of accepted/non-accepted items, check the Banner Graphic for the Tox-Away ad or visit www.westcentralswd.com.

WCSWD Tox-Away events are for Putnam and Parke county residents only. Regulations prohibit the collection of hazardous wastes from businesses, churches, schools and nonprofits at these events.

Call the WCSWD office with any questions at 1-800-211-2750.