Get a Free Reusable Bag Ahead of Plastic Bag Ban

County officials will be giving away free reusable bags at Altadena supermarkets on Wednesday to help residents prepare for the plastic bag ban that will be going into effect in unincorporated county areas on July 1.

The ban, which we've written about , is designed to discourage the use of plastic bags and reduce litter (blogger Ed Meyers discussed the ban ).  The county's ordinance also institutes a 10-cent tax on paper bags, making reusable bags the only way to haul away groceries for free.

The ban that goes into affect on July 1 will affect larger grocery stores like , and the major grocery store chains like Ralphs.  In July of 2012, the ban will be expanded to affect smaller markets as well. 

The bags will be distributed by employees of the County Department of Public Works at the following stores on Wednesday starting at 10 a.m:

• - 2270 N Lake Ave, Altadena 91001
• - 2260 N Lincoln Ave., Altadena 91001

Quantities are limited, so show up early if you want one.