The Marion County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day is set for Saturday, Oct. 16. After cancelling the event last year due to the pandemic, the collection is once again returning to the county.
The collection will take place at the Marion County Transfer Station on Mississippi 586 in Foxworth from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m.
It is during this time that household waste not normally taken during the year can be disposed of. Items include paint, aerosols, cleaners, ammonia, anti-freeze, auto cleaners, batteries, auto cleaners, batteries, brake fluid, chlorine bleach, pool chemicals, glass cleaner, disinfectants, drain opener, furniture polish, gasoline, herbicides, insecticides, needles (medical sharp), pesticides, rodent poisons, rubber cement, silver polish, tub and tile cleaner, water seal, wood finish, detergents, fertilizers, lighter fluid, glues, oven cleaner, paint thinner, photographic chemicals, tires, old appliances, fluorescent light bulbs, computers and televisions.
Items still not accepted include explosives, radioactive materials, PCBs, medical waste, ammunition and commercial waste.
“According to the Environmental Protection Agency, to reduce potential risks associated with household hazardous wastes, the use, storage and disposal of these products should be monitored.” Marion County Development Partnership President Lori Watts said. “They can present hazards to children and pets if left around the house, but proper disposal is imperative. Improper disposal of such projects can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers or putting them out with the regular trash. The dangers of such disposal methods might not seem immediately obvious; however, improper disposal can pollute the environment, threaten human health, potentially cause harm to sanitation workers or contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems.”
The event is a partnership between the Marion County Board of Supervisors, MCDP and Keep Columbia Marion County Beautiful.
Watts said while the event is free, volunteers and sponsors are needed that day to help with the collection and lessen the cost to the county. It is a good way for someone to earn community hours, she said.
If interested in helping with sponsorship or volunteering, contact the MCDP at (601) 736-6385 or email info@mcdp.info. The same contact information can be used for questions.
