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Monthly Archives: July 2011

Tire Dump Round-Up program

If you have more than 500 and less than 10,000 illegal scrap tires on your property, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources can help.  Through its Tire Dump Round-Up program, the department is offering qualified property owners the opportunity to have scrap tires cleaned up free of charge. The program is funded by the state’s 50-cent-per-tire scrap fee paid when new tires are purchased in Missouri. Other financial incentive programs are available to those who do not qualify for this program.

 

Program criteria for private property owners:

• Scrap tire dump must contain 500 – 10,000 tires.

• The owner is required to sign an access agreement stating that if a property owner violates the solid waste management law in the future the department can proceed with assessing penalties and incident cost recovery.

• Active businesses and property owners who have participated in prior cleanup initiatives are not eligible.

 

The department will continue to work with Solid Waste Districts and not-for-profit citizens groups in cleaning up dumps with less than 500 tires.

 

Scrap tire dumps pose serious threats to human health and the environment. Insects and rodents that grow and breed in these dumps can transmit diseases, such as West Nile Virus. Tire dump fires can release hazardous substances into the air, land and water.

 

Recycled scrap tires can provide several beneficial uses, including rubberized asphalt, playgrounds, running tracks and walking trails.

 

For more information or to sign up, contact the Solid Waste Management Program’s Scrap Tire Unit at 800-361-4827 or 573-751-5401 or visit us at Tire Dump Round-Up.

 

 For more information regarding scrap tires, please visit: Scrap Tires and Illegal Dumping  

 

For more information regarding solid waste management, please visit: Solid Waste Management Program  

Posted on Jul 26, 2011

Water permit fees renewed

            The Department of Natural Resources has been reauthorized to collect water permit fees.  The fees fund a significant portion of the department’s Water Protection Program and are paid by cities, wastewater utilities, developers and other businesses when they hold or apply for a permit to discharge wastewater.  The fees are authorized by the Missouri legislature , and expired last December after the General Assembly failed to extend them during the 2010 session.  With the passage and approval by Governor Nixon of House Bill 89, the department’s authority to charge fees for construction permits, operating permits, and operator’s certifications related to water pollution control is extended to Sept. 1, 2013                   

The department’s Water Protection Program regulates pollutants entering the state’s waters by issuing permits for the construction and operation of wastewater and stormwater discharges. Permits set performance standards necessary to protect water quality. The program evaluates discharge-monitoring and other data, and conducts inspections to determine whether facilities comply with applicable laws.   The fee renewal authorized by House Bill 89 allows the department to continue its mission of protecting water quality in Missouri. 

Posted on Jul 25, 2011

Yard program promotes healthier streams

In 2008, the Department of Natural Resources gave the University of Missouri-Columbia a $10,000 grant to develop and implement the Healthy Yards for Clear Streams Program. Now, three years later, the program has taken off statewide.

The grant funding was provided through what’s called a 319 grant.  This grant program provides federal funding to organizations that aim to reduce pollution from stormwater runoff.

The Healthy Yards for Clear Streams Program provides for educational workshops on creating a natural yard that will not only flourish, but also be watershed-friendly.  Participants learn to create an environmentally sustainable yard using responsible pest management techniques, conserving water, limiting and ensuring proper use of fertilizers and other tools to reduce stormwater runoff.  The program recognizes individuals who implement watershed-friendly practices with a Yard of Merit certificate and yard sign.

Stormwater runoff from yards, streets and parking lots is one of the most significant sources of contamination in our surface waters.   Reducing the amount of pollution from surface runoff is a huge step toward protectingMissouri’s beautiful streams, lakes and rivers.  These contaminants from can harm wildlife, reduce water clarity, and make the water unsafe for swimming or other recreational activities.

So the next time you see a Yard of Merit sign in someone’s yard, know that they are doing their part to protect our environment.

Posted on Jul 22, 2011

Green Tips – Gardening

Tires were banned from Missouri landfills in 1990. However, there are still thousands of tires that end up in illegal dumps – these dumps provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other vermin. One creative use for old tires is as planters in your garden. After very carefully cutting off one side wall on a large tire, gardeners can place the tire in their garden and fill it with soil, manure or compost. The tires retain a bit more heat to aid in growing, and when used as a raised bed they warm faster. Raised gardens can increase spring soil temperatures by 8 to 13° F over nearby soil temperatures at ground level.

Buckets, soda bottles and plastic containers make excellent potting sources for small plants. Make sure the containers have proper drainage and adequate amounts of sunlight and water. Old wooden boxes, metal buckets, washtubs and hollowed-out gourds all make unique planters, and are a great way to reuse and recycle items. Cut into short pieces, metal and vinyl mini-blinds make great plant markers. Clean nylon hose is useful for tying plants to trellises or fences. Cut the bottom off a milk jug and use to protect small plants from frost.

Create a showcase for your plants by using a roller skate as a base for the plant container.  Plant summer grasses in galoshes or an old boot. An old child’s wagon or wheelbarrow makes a great mobile plant container, and a vintage bird cage can be planted and hung from a front porch for a wonderful old-fashioned look.
Composting information can be found in the Solid Waste Management Program’s Homeowners’ Composting Guide. 

For additional environmentally-friendly tips, please visit Green Tips.

 

Posted on Jul 19, 2011

Green Tips – Camping

Summer time is known for warm weather, great food and family vacations.  Camping can be an environmentally friendly experience. To make your next camping trip a truly “green” experience, consider incorporating the following tips.

  • Make a list of everything you anticipate needing for the trip and go shopping only once. It is more efficient and will save you fuel and money. 
  • Look for a tent or sleeping bag made from recycled materials at your local camping supply store if you don’t already have one. 
  • Bring reusable dishes that can be used for years rather than purchasing throw-away one-use plates and plastic utensils.
  • Bring dish towels, a bucket and biodegradable soap from home instead of paper towels.
  • Bring storage containers for leftovers instead of plastic bags.
  • Look for solar-powered cook stoves and crank-powered radios and flashlights.
  • To repel insects use citronella candles instead of bug sprays that contain chemicals. 

You may want to consider camping this summer in one of the most beautiful park systems in the country. Missouri’s State Parks provide a variety of locations and activities aimed at pleasing every family member. 

  • Pick a location close to home to reduce gas consumption and save fuel money.
  • Use energy efficient lighting sources such as LED lanterns and flashlights.
  • Pick up all trash and recyclables, so you leave the campsite in the same condition it was in when you arrived.

One of the best parts of camping is the cooking.  Visit Green Tips – Backyard Barbecues.  

For additional environmentally-friendly tips, please visit the program’s Green Tips.

Posted on Jul 14, 2011

Reducing Flooding Impact – Bulk Dry Fertilizer

Reducing the Impact of Flooding –

Agricultural Chemicals – Bulk Dry Fertilizer

 When Flooding is Inevitable

Unlike other natural disasters that strike Missouri (e.g. tornadoes), severe flooding usually can be predicted, giving those in the effected areas the opportunity to prepare. One important form of preparation is to take steps to minimize the environmental effects agricultural chemicals would have if exposed to flood waters. The suggestions below are taken from Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Agricultural Chemicals, a fact sheet created by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Bulk Dry Fertilizer

  • Construct barriers at flood water entrances to prevent water from entering bins.
  • Delay shipments or temporarily move product to higher ground.
  • Spring road restrictions could limit the speed at which product can be removed.

More information regarding reducing the impact of flooding regarding other agricultural chemicals is available in the department’s fact sheets:

Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Agricultural Chemicals

In addition to agricultural chemicals, those living in rural areas affected by flooding should take steps to secure propane and other fuel tanks. Additional information related to securing and preparing propane tanks is available in the department’s fact sheet,

Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Propane Tanks

To report an environmental emergency, including fuel spills, please contact the department’s spill line at 573-634-2436.

 

For more information, please visit the Environmental Services Program web site.

 

 

Posted on Jul 12, 2011

Reduce Flooding Impact – Pesticide Containers

Reducing the Impact of Flooding –

Agricultural Chemicals – Small Packaged Pesticide Containers

When Flooding is Inevitable

Unlike other natural disasters that strike Missouri (e.g. tornadoes), severe flooding usually can be predicted, giving those in the effected areas the opportunity to prepare. One important form of preparation is to take steps to minimize the environmental effects agricultural chemicals would have if exposed to flood waters. The suggestions below are taken from Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Agricultural Chemicals, a fact sheet created by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

Small Packaged Pesticide Containers

  • Keep containers off the floor and secured.
  • Inventory products.
  • Move grain fumigants to an area not within the flood zone.
  • Move products to an area protected from flood waters and away from drains.
  • Postpone incoming shipments.

More information regarding reducing the impact of flooding regarding other agricultural chemicals is available in the department’s fact sheets:

Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Agricultural Chemicals

In addition to agricultural chemicals, those living in rural areas affected by flooding should take steps to secure propane and other fuel tanks. Additional information related to securing and preparing propane tanks is available in the department’s fact sheet,

Reducing the Impact of Flooding – Propane Tanks

To report an environmental emergency, including fuel spills, please contact the department’s spill line at 573-634-2436.

For more information, please visit the Environmental Services Program web site.  

 

Posted on Jul 11, 2011

Green Tips – Backyard Barbecues

The first thing a summer griller must decide is gas or charcoal?  Try to choose cleaner burning propane for gas grills. However, if charcoal is your preference look for lump brands.  Some lump brands are made from sustainable forest timber.  If the fire needs a little help getting started, use a chimney starter rather than lighter fluid to get it going. This cuts down on chemicals released into the air.

When it comes to choosing what to place on your grill, visit your local farmer’s markets for fresh produce.  By purchasing locally, energy is saved by not transporting the produce from great distances.  If possible, look for locally raised and processed meat to further reduce energy consumption.  Locally grown is usually within 100 mile radius.

When setting the table, purchase reusable products such as flatware, silverware and cloth napkins.  For a unique look, use bandanas for napkins and old quilts for tablecloths.  If this isn’t possible, use paper plates and napkins with recycled content and plastic cups that are biodegradable and can be composted.  For the children’s table, a Frisbee covered in wax paper makes a great plate, which can be turned over and used for fun after the meal is finished.  After dinner, try to compost as much of the food scraps as possible, and enjoy the outdoor weather, no air-conditioning required.

Composting information can be found in the Solid Waste Management Program’s Homeowners’ Composting Guide.

For additional environmentally-friendly tips, please visit the program’s Green Tips.

Posted on Jul 05, 2011