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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Aug. 21, 1998
98-149
Contact: Joye Redfield-Wilder, public information manager, (509) 575-2610
YAKIMA - The state Department of Ecology is seeking information on who might have illegally dumped 250 gallons of industrial paint solvent at two remote areas, one along the Yakima River Canyon Road.
"It's a shame for this to have happened. These solvents are entirely reusable and recyclable," said Dick Granberg, of Ecology's hazardous-waste program in Yakima. "Not only are these solvents highly flammable, but they also can pose a health threat to people and the environment."
A county crew discovered the first dumpsite along McGonagle Road near Selah last week. Found at the site were approximately 25 five-gallon buckets of industrial paint thinner, the kind most likely used in commercial applications.
The second site was reported Tuesday, Aug. 18, at the Umtanum Recreation Area on the Yakima River Canyon in Kittitas County. Another 25 five-gallon containers were found there, bearing the same labeling as the Selah cans.
Based on the labeling and other identifying factors, Ecology believes the two incidents are related. According to state law, such industrial-based solvents are hazardous waste and must be disposed or recycled at an approved facility.
"One phone call to Ecology or a county solid waste department would have given these people information on proper disposal," Granberg said.
Anyone who might have information regarding these two incidents or any other illegal dumping incidents may call Ecology's Central Regional office in Yakima at (509) 575-2490.
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
