By Helen Venada, County Waste Reduction and Hazardous Waste Coordinator, Solid Waste Division
San Juan County farmers, nurseries, and gardeners have recycled over 33 tons of “agricultural plastics” over the last four years through collection events on each island. Public Works and partners, WSU Master Gardeners/Ag Program, San Juan Islands Conservation District, and the Agricultural Resources Committee will not be sponsoring collections this year because there is no grant funding to help cover costs.
Generators of CLEAN, DRY, and SORTED drip tape, plastic/nylon strapping, twine, nursery pots/flats, and plant labels can self-haul these materials to Skagit River Steel and Recycling in Burlington at a current recycling fee of $.03/pound. However, there are no regional markets at this time for plastic hay bale wrap, tarps, reemay row cover, or PVC pipe…but you could give Aaron a call at Skagit River Steel & Recycling (800-869-7097 x227)) to check on changing market conditions before you decide on landfill disposal.
Recycled agricultural plastics are used in the manufacture of truck bed liners, decking, black plastic landscape supplies, drain pipe, plastic lumber for benches, posts and pilings, pallets, automotive components, tool handles and black trash bags. Look for “recycled content” when you purchase new materials to stimulate recycling markets.
Please remember: Burning plastics is not a disposal option! It is illegal and creates highly toxic fumes that are especially harmful to people with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory/cardiac problems.
Venada may be contacted at 360-370-0503.
Thank you Helen, and for reminding others that there are many people who already suffer respiratory illnesses and compromised respiratory systems.
It’s time for us to create our own ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle and make it so! Perhaps hauling would be a good side -income business for some industrious islander who likes to make mainland trips. (Until we grow our own facilities)