Disposing of old tires can be both expensive and difficult. What starts as a small pile can quickly grow over the years, getting bigger, and the cost to dispose of them keeps going up. To help clear out unwanted tires, the North Central Nebraska RC&D, the Upper Elkhorn NRD, and the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment are hosting a tire amnesty in O’Neill, Nebraska. This is an opportunity to consider the value in getting rid of old tires the right way. The collection is available to make cleanup easier, more affordable, and environmentally responsible.
The RC&D is encouraging tire amnesty participants to think about what it’s worth, and then by supporting the effort itself. Discarding old tires can often come with unexpected costs. Retailers charge per tire for disposal, and those fees can quickly add up. While the tire amnesty is free, participants are encouraged to consider making a voluntary donation when they drop off their tires. Instead of spending money to clear out unwanted tires, participants can redirect those savings towards something more meaningful, making a donation to the North Central RC&D. All contributions help support this event, fund local recycling projects, and expand community programs that benefit everyone.
Nebraska law has prohibited tires from being placed in landfills for decades, and illegally burning tires releases toxic pollutants into the environment. Left unattended, tire piles can collect standing water, creating areas for mosquitoes and rodents. The tire amnesty offers a better solution. All tires collected will be recycled into useful products such as livestock feed bunks, silage covers, and park benches.
The tire amnesty will be held at the O’Neill Recycling Center, 87187 494th Avenue, on June 9th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on June 10th from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The amnesty is open to residents within the RC&D service area, including Boyd, Brown, Cherry, Holt, Keya Paha, and Rock Counties. Tire retailers and South Dakota residents are not eligible to participate. Passenger, truck, tractor, pivot, and semi tires will all be accepted. Tires must be off rims, and participants will be responsible for unloading their own tires. Loads containing excessive dirt or debris may be turned away. Because the collection is limited to 700 tons, organizers encourage residents not to wait until the last minute. For 20 or fewer tires, a count by tire type is needed. Loads with over 20 tires will require weights. Once the approved tonnage has been reached, no additional tires can be accepted.
“What can be a costly cleanup for landowners is also an environmental concern when tires aren’t properly managed. This program helps address both by offering a responsible option that supports cleaner communities, and any donations go right back into supporting RC&D efforts,” said Mike Burge, RC&D Chairman. Additional information about the tire amnesty can be found at northcentralrcd.com or by calling 402-340-1530.
