Illegal dumping is a serious problem for the communities in Ventura County. Waste poses an environmental threat to both humans and wildlife. Illegal dumping, along with a $3,000 fine plus clean-up costs and community service, can be avoided by locating the proper information on disposal and recycling options. Ventura County Public Works Agency’s “Don’t Dump On Me, VC!” campaign encourages the community to keep Ventura County beautiful by providing information on simple and easy ways to dispose of waste.
It’s important to first determine the type of waste that is being disposed of. Examples of commonly found materials that cannot be put in the trash or recycle bin include mattresses and bulky items, electronic waste, and household hazardous waste.
For mattresses and bulky items, you can schedule a no-cost curbside pickup by calling your waste hauling service. This can often be included in your service at least once a year. Bulky items can include appliances, furniture, and electronic waste. If you are getting rid of a mattress, you may be able to donate it, recycle it or even have it picked up. The Mattress Recycling Council runs a recycling program called ByeByeMattress, and households are allowed to drop off old mattresses and box springs at collection sites.
Electronic waste includes electronic products that are unwanted or do not work. This includes televisions and computer monitors, printers and scanners, fax and copy machines, video game consoles, and cell phones. These products can contain heavy metals that contaminate the environment and should not be disposed of in trash or recycling bins. E-waste can be recycled at numerous waste collection facilities throughout Ventura County.
Household hazardous waste is generated by a resident in a household while performing household activities and maintenance at your home. Some products that can pose a threat to the health of humans, animals, and the environment include antifreeze, batteries, drain cleaners, glue and adhesives, oven cleaners, and paints. To dispose of or recycle household hazardous waste properly, you can make an appointment at the Pollution Prevention Center. The County of Ventura holds about 9 monthly events during the year for the collection of hazardous waste.
“Waste is not only an eyesore on the Ventura County landscape,” said Chris Kurgan, Director Roads and Transportation. “It harms our communities and costs taxpayers millions of dollars in clean-up costs, pollutes surface and groundwater, and poses safety hazards to people, especially children. If you witness illegal dumping in progress, please report it today.”
More information and direct links to resources provided in Ventura County can be found at https://www.vcpublicworks.org/dont-dump-on-me-vc/
