Dispose of household hazardous waste the right way

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BROOKINGS – The Brookings Regional Landfill is encouraging Hamlin, Deuel, Kingsbury, Lake, Brookings and Moody County residents to dispose of unwanted household hazardous waste in a safe and environmentally responsible way at its first collection event from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 21, at the Swiftel Center. 

The event is free with a recommended donation of a non-perishable food item(s) which will be donated to the Brookings Food Pantry.

“The City of Brookings believes in being good stewards of the natural environment and providing services that protect our residents. This year I am excited to see this free event that will grant an opportunity for the safe disposal of household hazardous wastes,” City Manager Paul Briseno said. “I encourage all to clean their homes of excess paints, fertilizer and other similar chemicals that can be toxic to children, pets and pose harm to our first responders. This event meets two of the City Council’s strategic goals, which include providing a safe, inclusive and connected community and developing more sustainable endeavors. It’s programs like this which help us achieve our dream of a cleaner and safer Brookings.”

Staff will be on-site to collect small, household quantities of products such as paint, weed killers, auto repair products, household cleaners and compact fluorescent bulbs. Unaccepted items include but are not limited to commercial waste, industrial waste, medical or radioactive waste, explosives, ammunition, electronics, antifreeze and oil.

According to the EPA, improper disposal of household hazardous waste can cause harm to sanitation workers, contaminate septic tanks or wastewater treatment systems, pollute bodies of water, or present danger to children or pets if left around the house. The landfill is working with Veolia, a third party that helps manage, transport and properly dispose of hazardous or regulated wastes. 

For more information about this event or a full list of acceptable items, visit https://www.cityofbrookings-sd.gov/330/Household-Hazardous-Waste-Event or call the Brookings Regional Landfill at 605-693-3667.