Free Valley Hazardous Waste Drop Off Event Saturday

COACHELLA, CA —Riverside County residents can drop off their hazardous waste for free in Coachella on Saturday, it was announced Wednesday.

Paint, fertilizers, motor parts and fluorescent light bulbs are among the items that can be discarded during the collection event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bagdouma Park Swim Center parking lot at 84-625 Bagdad Ave.

"These temporary household hazardous waste collection events offer a great service in accepting these items," County Supervisor Manuel Perez said Wednesday in announcing the collection event. "They protect the environment by keeping hazardous waste out of landfills and from harming people, pets and wildlife."

Certain materials, including explosives, ammunition and asbestos, will not be accepted.

Hosted by the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources, the drop- off is open to all county residents, but only waste from households, not businesses, will be accepted.

Loads are limited to 15 gallons, or 125 pounds, per vehicle. Individual containers should be no larger than five gallons, nor weigh more than 50 pounds, a department official said.

Anyone who misses the drop-off event can take hazardous waste to the county facility in Palm Springs at 1100 Vella Road, which is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

Additional information can be found at rcwaste.org or by calling 951- 486-3200.