With a large portion of Lawrence County in a rural setting, many places are breeding grounds for illegal dumping.

Saturday, the Lawrence-Scioto County Solid Waste Management District hosted its ninth annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection in Hanging Rock.

This event is essential for both the county and residents as it provides a safe and secure outlet for disposing of a myriad of hazardous waste and pharmaceuticals.

Some of those items that were accepted at the event included scrap tires, lead acid batteries, motor oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, paints, thinners and solvents, various cleaners, pesticides and herbicides, swimming pool chemicals, various electronics and assorted pharmaceuticals.

Many of these items are things people see dumped on hillsides and creek beds throughout the county.

Having a cooperative effort through the Solid Waste District, the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office and the use of the Dow Chemical facility in Hanging Rock.

All those involved should be commended for their efforts to make this event happen each year.

Ultimately, this event should not be deemed a success or failure based on how much is collected.

The success is found in the ability for our residents to have an outlet to properly dispose of these types of unwanted items that may otherwise be difficult or just tossed out illegally.