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SOLID WASTE COLLECTION

Solid-waste collection centers reopened to curb dumping

Posted

A quick drive up toward the county’s solid-waste collection center at Hill, north of Las Cruces, shows the frustration that some county residents may have when encountering a “closed” sign.

Off the road, in a ravine, is a tossed couch. On the other side, obvious yard waste with tire tracks from the truck whose driver left it. With the increase in quarantine spring cleaning comes the side effect of more illegal dumping in the desert, but planning trips and knowing the procedures can help preserve the desert environment.

“We’re committed to the health of each other during this pandemic, but we’re asking that residents stay committed to not dumping their trash illegally,” said Patrick Peck, director of South Central Solid Waste Authority (SCSWA), which manages the county’s eight collection centers.

After a short closure during the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, all collection centers are now open normal hours (visit www.scswa.net to find locations and hours). For now, punch cards are not required to drop-off trash. Recycling drop-off is always free.

Use of the sites is available only to residents of New Mexico. Social-distancing protocols should be followed at all times, with no more than five people in a given area or 10 total individuals per site, including staff, while maintaining six-foot distance between one other.

The Foothills Landfill (555 S. Sonoma Ranch Blvd.) is closed to the public, so the best option for disposal of green waste is to schedule pickup by Las Cruces Utilities (LCU at 575-528-3500), which is offering curbside pickup through May 8.

Use clear plastic bags to contain grass clippings and weeds alongside neatly stacked branches or other yard waste materials, which will be recycled into composted mulch and given back to the community at no charge.

Reach SCSWA at 575-528-3800 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The SCSWA manages solid waste and recyclables for residents and businesses throughout Las Cruces and Doña Ana County.


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