Montrose, COLO.—Montrose County will host a free tire recycling event on Saturday, Oct., 7th, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, or until the limit is met. The event will be held at the Montrose County Public Works Facility at 63160 LaSalle Road.
“The majority of our county is made up of publicly managed lands,” said Montrose County Commissioner Keith Caddy. “It is very disappointing to visit these beautiful areas and see trash and tires littered in the open space. It negatively impacts grazing operations, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and residents recreating on public lands. This event is a great opportunity for residents to dispose of their old tires and help protect the health of our community and our public lands.”
The Bureau of Land Management will provide support for the event, as much of the dumping occurs on lands the agency administers. “The BLM is excited to partner with Montrose County and the Forest Service on this event,” said BLM Uncompahgre Field Manager Suzanne Copping. “It’s vital that we work together to spread the message and reduce illegal dumping on our public lands.”
“Illegal dumping of trash—especially tires—on public lands has increased in recent years,” said Dana Gardunio, Ouray District Ranger for the U.S. Forest Service. “I am proud to partner with the BLM and county to help provide this free resource to keep tires off public lands. Illegal dumping of tires poses health and safety risks to the public and spoils the beauty of public lands.”
Illegal dumping of trash and scrap tires is a violation of the law, threat to public health, and a drain on public resources—there are several other cost-effective options for disposal. Waste tires are a prime breeding area for mosquitoes which carry West Nile Virus. Moreover, waste tires can leach toxic chemicals that contaminate soil and water and cause harm to the environment. If a scrap tire pile ignites, it can burn for long periods of time and causes negative impacts to the air and landscape. Anyone with information about those responsible for the illegal disposal of tires or trash is encouraged to report it to their local public land management agency.
Montrose County Road and Bridge is also hosting a simultaneous free tire recycling event in the West End at the County Road and Bridge shop at 27871 DD Road in Nucla. That event will also be Oct. 7 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, or until the tire limit is met.
At the free tire recycling events, residents can bring up to five tires per vehicle per visit. Tires must be clean and brought without rims. Only passenger vehicle, ATV, and light truck tires will be accepted. Tractor tires will not be accepted. The event is open to Montrose County residents only. Commercial tire shops are not eligible to participate.
For more information, please call Montrose County at 970-252-4505.