It is almost one of my favorite times of the year again — spring. Spring doesn't officially begin until March 20, but I am already getting in the spirit.
Spring is my favorite season because the weather warms up, the flowers begin to bloom and everything comes to life. It is also the time for spring cleaning.
Just in time for spring cleaning, Boyle County is having a household hazardous waste collection day. HHW collection day will be 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday at the Boyle County Fairgrounds.
This is a great and safe way to dispose of toxic items you would not normally be able to get rid of easily. If these items are buried in the ground or just thrown outside, it is possible that they will enter the water table or be carried by rain into creeks.
HHW items include things such as:
- Aerosols
- Pesticide liquids and solids
- Fire extinguishers
- Cleaners (acids/bases/oxidizers)
- Fuels (gasoline, kerosene)
- Transmission, brake and power steering fluids
- Greases
- Oil-based paint
- Fluorescent bulbs
- Adhesives
- Roof tar and driveway sealers
These hazardous substances can harm local wildlife and enter our drinking water. The best thing to do with them is save them up after they have been used and wait for opportunities to get rid of them, like free HHW collection days.
The event in Boyle is possible because of a $20,500 grant that the county has obtained from the Kentucky Division Of Waste Management. Because the grant money is limited, it’s possible the gates will close before 3 p.m., so it’s probably best to show up to the event early to make sure your donations are accepted.
This event is only open to residents of Boyle County, so make sure you bring proof of residency like a water bill and your ID so your contributions will be accepted.
Boyle’s collection day will be held whether it rains or shines, so don’t let a little precipitation scare you away.
It is important to remember what items won’t be accepted:
- Used oil
- Latex paint
- Batteries
There is a flyer with more details about the event, as well as a short survey that Boyle County would appreciate you filling out and bringing with you to the event, available at http://bit.ly/14GV828.
If you need more information or have any questions you can contact the Boyle County Department of Solid Waste Management at (859) 238-1116.
I hope everyone has a great start to spring and gets all of their hazardous materials disposed of safely. I will be looking into similar events in other local communities in case you are not a Boyle County resident.
Amanda’s Animal Fact of the Week
Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds are omnivores; they not only drink from flowers, but they also sometimes feed on insects and spiders.
