SUNY Canton Hosts Development Authority Hazardous Waste Recycling Day, May 16

The Development Authority of the North Country (DANC) and the Department of Environmental Conservation will be hosting a hazardous waste recycling day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 16 at SUNY Canton.

“We all know someone who has old pool chemicals, half-empty aerosol cans or even fluorescent light tubes tucked away in their basement or garage, just waiting for the opportunity to responsibly dispose of them,” said Shawn Thornton, materials management director for DANC. “The longer they lie around, the greater hazard these materials can pose to our family and friends.”

For more than fifteen years, household hazardous waste recycling days have provided an opportunity to safely dispose of items that can’t be thrown away in regular trash, such as paints, chemicals, pesticides, and other hazardous products. In 2025 alone, 134 tons of household hazardous waste were collected across locations in Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties. This year, area residents are again encouraged to bring hazardous materials for disposal to any of the upcoming free events.

“The Authority is proud to once again sponsor these free, Hazardous Household Waste recycling days with our regional partners,” Thornton added. “It takes just a few minutes to load your vehicle and dispose of these materials, which is a simple and easy way to do our part to safeguard the environment.”

SUNY Canton’s collection is one of five events planned for the North Country region. Individuals who wish to participate in any of the free collection events must preregister through North Country Recycles or by calling 315-661-3230. A complete list of materials accepted is also available on the website.

The event is being facilitated by SUNY Canton’s Environmental Health and Safety office.