300+ Putnam Households Discard Hazardous Waste On Drop-Off Day

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Hundreds of residents got dangerous trash safely out of their houses and disposed of during Putnam County's spring Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Day May 6.

The county hosts these events twice a year to give residents a chance to responsibly dispose of various hazardous materials, ensuring the preservation of our environment and the well-being of our community, said County Executive Kevin Byrne.

In all, 334 residents from across Putnam County registered and hauled a wide range of hazardous items they needed to throw out to a parking lot at Fahnestock State Park. Radiac Environmental Services, which specializes in the safe collection and disposal of household hazardous waste, collected thousands of pounds of waste including pesticides, old gasoline/fuels, antifreeze, fertilizers, adhesives/solvents, paints and stains, products with mercury, old pool chemicals, drain and oven cleaners, and fluorescent light tubes.

Officials praised the residents' collective commitment to proper waste management and environmental stewardship.

The Health Department's initiative aimed to prevent hazardous materials from being improperly discarded, potentially contaminating Putnam's land, waterways, and ecosystems.

"Putnam County is committed to promoting responsible waste management practices and protecting our environment," Byrne said in a statement. "The Household Hazardous Waste event provided an invaluable opportunity for our residents to dispose of hazardous materials safely. We extend our gratitude to all the participants for their conscientious efforts in preserving the beauty and integrity of our surroundings."

The next one is scheduled for Oct. 14.

"Household hazardous waste day is a great opportunity for our residents to help protect our environment and water quality in Putnam County while disposing of unwanted household chemicals," said Environmental Health Director Shawn Rogan. "At county-wide safe disposal events such as this, as well as on medication take back days, Health Department staff and our partners demonstrate the intersection of public health and environmental safety by ensuring a smooth event as well as providing expertise and information to residents on proper disposal, recycling and waste reduction."