The Manalapan Environmental Commission would like to remind everyone that it is a crime in the State of New Jersey to dump liquid waste into the storm drains [or down the drain in your house].  Old habits [see the accompanying pictures], such as emptying paint cans, used motor oil, or other chemicals down the storm drain are not only illegal, but they cause serious problems for our brooks, streams, lakes and rivers.  Ultimately, that's where all the liquid winds up, and these chemicals kill fish, wildlife and plant life.  

Incredibly, one quart of oil can contaminate 2 millions gallons of water. Motor oil should be brought to a local service station, which is required by law to accept it for recycling.  Service stations may charge a fee, but many don't.  Mr. Tire, Walmart, Jiffy Lube, Quality Lube and Firestone do not charge a fee.  Latex paint should be completely dried out and thrown in the trash.  You can use paint hardener [available at hardware stores], cat litter, sawdust or dirt. Leave the lid off so the garbage hauler can see it is dry.   

Oil based paint and other chemicals should be brought to the County Household Hazardous Waste Facility on Shafto Road [Route 547] in Tinton Falls.  You must call and make an appointment [732-683-8686].    The County will also be hosting a hazardous waste drop off day in Upper Freehold on September 29 from 10 am - 3 pm. For details, please call the same number or go to the Recycling page of the County website.  

Please do not throw any toxic liquid down the drain or the sewer.  The Environmental Commission and the fish thank you.