Keene Schedules Spring Events for Household Hazardous Waste Disposal

The collection schedule extends from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on several dates in May and June.

Residents in Keene, as well as those from nearby Monadnock Region towns, will have the chance to responsibly dispose of hazardous household items this spring during designated collection events at the city's facility. 

The collection schedule extends from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on several dates: May 13, May 30, June 13, June 17, and June 27. These events will occur at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility located adjacent to the Keene Recycling Center at 55 Old Summit Road.

Communities involved in this initiative include Acworth, Chesterfield, Dublin, Gilsum, Greenfield, Hancock, Harrisville, Jaffrey, Keene, Marlborough, Nelson, Peterborough, Richmond, Stoddard, Sullivan, Surry, Swanzey, Walpole, and Westmoreland. Residents from these areas can dispose of up to 10 gallons of hazardous waste per vehicle without incurring any charges. 

For those living in communities that are not participating, they can still use the facility but will need to pay associated disposal fees to North Ward Environmental Services. The fees are structured at $110 for up to 10 gallons, $240 for between 10 and 20 gallons, and $550 for between 20 and 50 gallons. To alleviate costs, it is advisable for residents to consult their local town offices, as some may offer reimbursement options.

City officials emphasized that the safe disposal of hazardous materials is crucial for safeguarding public health and preserving environmental integrity. Household chemicals that are flammable, corrosive, toxic, or reactive pose serious risks when disposed of improperly, including the potential for toxic emissions, fires, or explosions, as well as groundwater pollution.

The city's information indicated that the average household typically discards around 15.5 pounds of hazardous waste each year. Acceptable items include products that are labeled as flammable, poisonous, corrosive, or hazardous. The facility also welcomes mercury-containing items such as fluorescent bulbs, thermometers, thermostats, and batteries.

Certain materials are prohibited at these collection events. Latex paint must be dried and disposed of with regular trash, while toiletries and cosmetics should be discarded in household garbage. Medications are to be taken to designated locations such as the Keene Police Department or local pharmacies for proper disposal.

Dangerous items such as fireworks, ammunition, and explosives are not permitted at the facility and should be reported to the New Hampshire State Police. Smoke detectors should be returned to manufacturers or brought to future hazardous waste collection events.

Additionally, the Keene Recycling Center has restrictions against accepting asbestos, and individuals seeking disposal advice for asbestos can find resources on the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services' website.