RAPID CITY, South Dakota – With high winds forecast to sweep across the Black Hills area today, Monday, Oct. 20, the Rapid City Solid Waste Division is reminding residents of essential tips for trash collection to prevent litter and property loss.
City collection rules stipulate that containers must be upright for collection, and drivers will not pick up overturned containers, stray bags, or scattered trash, according to Solid Waste officials.
“If your container is not full and you can make it to the next week, especially the recycling container, consider keeping it up near the house so the container doesn’t tip over or doesn’t blow away and you can’t find it,” said Solid Waste Outreach Coordinator Ria Hannon.
Hannon noted that lighter recycling containers, often holding empty cans and bottles, are particularly susceptible to tipping in windy conditions. She also stressed the importance of securely bagging and tying both garbage and recycled materials.
“Nobody wants to come home and see their trash, or their neighbor’s trash, blowing into your yard or in the street and area,” Hannon said. “Keep trash bagged and tied. Your neighbor will thank you.”
Residents in Rapid City who are unable to locate their trash or recycle containers can contact the Solid Waste Division at 605-355-3496 to receive the serial number for their container or discuss replacement options.