On October 5, the Morrow County Fairgrounds will serve as the backdrop for a community-driven initiative aimed at helping residents responsibly dispose of unwanted latex paint. The event, organized by the Delaware, Knox, Marion, and Morrow (DKMM) Joint Solid Waste District, is set to run from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, providing an essential service to the counties’ residents. The event underscores the ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and proper waste management across the region.
What You Need to Know About the Event
The Latex Paint Collection event is open exclusively to residents of Delaware, Knox, Marion, and Morrow counties. To participate, individuals must present a valid photo ID upon arrival at the Morrow County Fairgrounds, located at 195 S. Main Street, Mount Gilead, OH 43338. For a nominal fee of $2 per can, residents can safely discard their unused latex paint, helping to prevent harmful environmental impacts that can arise from improper disposal.
“This is a great opportunity for residents to clean out their garages and basements while ensuring that old paint is disposed of in an environmentally safe way,” said a spokesperson for DKMM. “We want to make it as easy as possible for our community to do the right thing.”
What Can Be Disposed Of and What Can’t
Participants should note that the event has specific guidelines on what materials will be accepted. Only latex paint will be collected, with a strict limit of 10 cans per resident. This policy is in place to ensure that as many people as possible can take advantage of the collection service. Additionally, only containers that hold up to 5 gallons are permitted.
However, not all types of paint are accepted. The event will not collect aerosol paint, oil-based paint, empty containers, or any materials that are considered unknown or potentially hazardous. Residents attempting to dispose of these items will need to find alternative methods of disposal.
“The guidelines are clear, and we’re asking everyone to adhere to them,” the spokesperson added. “By following these rules, we can ensure the event runs smoothly and effectively serves the community.”
The Importance of Responsible Paint Disposal
Latex paint, while not considered hazardous in small quantities, can still pose environmental risks if not disposed of correctly. When thrown in the regular trash, it can leak and contaminate soil and water sources. Events like this one help mitigate these risks by ensuring that the paint is processed and disposed of in a manner that prevents environmental damage.
Moreover, the collection event helps reduce the number of paint cans that might otherwise end up in landfills. By participating, residents contribute to broader environmental conservation efforts, ensuring that hazardous materials are handled in a way that protects local ecosystems.
How to Prepare for the Event
Residents planning to participate in the collection event should take a few preparatory steps to ensure a smooth experience. First, gather your latex paint cans and inspect them to ensure they are not leaking or damaged. It’s essential to transport the cans in a secure manner to prevent spills. Upon arrival at the fairgrounds, follow the signs to the designated drop-off area, where volunteers will assist in unloading the paint.
If you have more than 10 cans, consider asking friends or neighbors to accompany you so that all your paint can be disposed of in one trip. This collective approach can also help others who may have only a few cans and might not otherwise make the trip.
“Community events like this one are most successful when residents work together,” said the DKMM representative. “We encourage people to bring their neighbors and make it a joint effort.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Waste Management in DKMM Counties
This latex paint collection event is just one of many initiatives spearheaded by the DKMM Joint Solid Waste District. The district regularly organizes events and programs designed to help residents responsibly manage waste and recyclables. By focusing on education and accessibility, DKMM aims to reduce the environmental footprint of the four counties it serves.
In the future, residents can expect more opportunities to dispose of not just paint, but other materials that require special handling, such as electronics and household chemicals. The district continues to explore new ways to engage the community in sustainable practices, ensuring that Delaware, Knox, Marion, and Morrow counties remain leaders in environmental stewardship.
“We’re always looking for new ways to improve our waste management services and make them more accessible to the public,” the DKMM representative noted. “Our goal is to create a cleaner, greener future for our communities.”
For more information on the Latex Paint Collection event or to learn about upcoming waste management programs, residents are encouraged to contact DKMM at 419-946-6400 or visit their website.
