by Ben Nuelle
Now that winter has officially begun it?s time to start working in the shop and maintaining tractors or other equipment. Kevin Baskins is with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. He says oil and other hazardous materials should not be dumped on the ground.
?Certainly, we want to make sure if we have hazardous type materials like oil or petroleum products that they are properly disposed of or handled. The good news in Iowa is we have a number of hazardous collection sites across the state. Those are available at Iowadnr.gov. So there are ways to get rid of hazardous materials for virtually everyone in the state,? Baskins said.
Baskins says not just farmers but everyone should pay attention.
?A lot of farmers have their own water wells. It is in their best interest too to make sure stuff is getting disposed of properly and isn?t getting placed in a position where it could leach into the drinking water. Always proper handling of waste-type materials is in the best interest of everyone to make sure there are properly handled,? Baskins said.
Find more information about where you can properly dispose waste by visiting iowadnr.gov. http://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Land-Quality/Waste-Management/Iowa-Green-List
The DNR’s Solid Waste and Financial & Business Assistance sections, within the Land Quality Bureau, is Iowa’s core agency for assisting businesses and residences with waste management goals, while regulating solid waste facilities.
We assist Iowa citizens, businesses and communities create a cleaner environment and stronger economy through sustainable use of natural resources with effective waste management and pollution prevention activities.
