BROOKINGS — Despite winter weather’s return, it’s time to think spring — and spring cleaning. Many Brookings residents look forward each spring to clearing their homes of items that have outworn their welcome, and they count on the city to help with their efforts.

 This year, the longtime annual spring cleanup program has a new name: Spring Bulky Item Pickup. Why?

 “We hope the name change will help people better understand the purpose of this annual service provided by the city,” said Solid Waste Manager Charlie Kuhn. “The intent is and always has been to provide residents an opportunity to dispose of large branches and large bulky items that will not fit in their carts. Small items that fit in the garbage, recycling or yard waste carts should not be placed on boulevards.”

 The Spring Bulky Item Pickup program is for Brooking city residents only; it is not available to commercial businesses.

 Dates

• April 10: First day to start placing items on boulevards.
• April 14: Last day to separate and place items on boulevards.
• April 15: City crews will begin pickup.
• April 15-27:  The Brookings Regional Landfill will be open for free dumping for city residents from 7:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8:00 to 11:45 a.m. Saturday.
• A photo ID or utility bill will be required to prove city residency for free dumping.
• All loads must be covered, or a $25 fine will be assessed.
• Tires and items containing freon will be charged a fee.

 Real-time tracker

For the third consecutive year, residents can follow a real-time tracker to see block-by-block updates showing where crews have collected and where they are working. Residents can access the tool here.