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'Heavy Metal Days' for mercury, lead materials

Anita Weier  —  8/12/2008 12:25 pm

Friday and Saturday could be the best days of the year to take hazardous items to Dane County's Clean Sweep collection point on Fish Hatchery Road.

On those days, the first 200 people to bring in lead fishing tackle will receive free non-lead tackle and the first 100 to bring in mercury thermometers will receive free mercury-free thermometers.

People are also urged to bring in lead shot (not live ammunition), compact fluorescent light bulbs and thermostat switches, which also contain some mercury, during what officials are calling "Heavy Metal Days."

"The harm done by mercury and lead when they get in our lakes and rivers is significant and avoidable; that's why this special collection is so important," said Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk. "This is a great opportunity to reduce the damage that can be done to our beautiful waterways."

Lead and mercury are heavy metals that are extremely toxic to people and wildlife, and can create serious pollution hazards when not properly handled or disposed of.

"Heavy Metal Days is a great opportunity for citizens to directly reduce environmental damage and protect our lakes and rivers," said Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz.

Clean Sweep is open from May 2 through Oct. 31 for the 2008 season. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, at 2302 Fish Hatchery Road, which is at the corner of Fish Hatchery and Badger roads.

Anita Weier  —  8/12/2008 12:25 pm