County taking reservations for special hazardous waste drop-off

Metro Wire Staff

Portage Co. is holding a special after-hours household hazardous waste disposal event this month.

County residents can drop off items related to automotive, pool, garden, or workshop waste; or household products labeled as toxic, caustic, poisonous, flammable, or combustible.

Appointments are required and available on a first-come, first-served basis from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23. Appointments can be made by calling 715-345-5970.

The program is partially subsidized by a grant from the Department of Trade and Consumer Protection and the Portage Co. Solid Waste Department. County residents pay a small fee of $0.75 per pound for most items to cover the remaining cost of disposal, and non-county residents pay $1 per pound.

The county holds special collection events to help avoid improper disposal in the environment. Improper storage or disposal of hazardous items can cause fires, groundwater contamination, and injuries to people and animals through accidental poisonings, the department said.