The Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste Management District has gotten the ball — well, actually the tire — rolling when it comes to cleaning up the eyesores and trash that litter rural roads.

The district is partnering with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, which funded this initiative with a $20,000 grant, to host three tire amnesty days designed to give the residents the chance to dispose of old tires at no cost.

Monday, Aug. 23, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Lawrence County Fairgrounds entrance off County Road 411, Proctorville.

Wednesday, Aug. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Burlington-Fayette Fire Department, 7681 County Road, Burlington.

Friday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the South Ironton Industrial Park, Commerce Drive, Ironton.

Although we think this is a good program that will certainly be a step in the right direction, we would like to see the solid waste district and ODNR take it a step farther.

Pay for tires being brought in. That’s right, offer a small payment for every tire brought in. Maybe $2 each or so.

This would serve as a strong incentive for citizens to clean up their own property, likely prompt residents to scour the rural roads of Lawrence County looking for tires that have been tossed aside and also inject a small amount of revenue into the local economy.

Understandably, this change won’t happen this time but we hope to see state and local officials take a good look next time.

Offering a little monetary incentive could really get this program burning rubber.