It just got a little tougher to find a good "waste tire" in Rockford, now that 4,661.58 tons of them have been hauled away by the Illinois EPA.

The Illinois EPA’s removal action represents the most expensive used/waste tire removal action in Illinois history, with the removal of 4,661.58 tons of waste tires at the cost of more than $1.8 million. Illinois EPA has authority under the Illinois Environmental Protection Act to carry out forced removals. The forced removal action began on June 11th, and was completed on August 3rd.

“Stockpiles of used tires, like the millions of pounds that were at the S.T.A.R. site, present a true environmental threat and public health hazard due to the risk of fire and as a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests,” said Director Messina. “Though forced removals are rare, Illinois EPA is committed to these types of actions to ensure a safer, healthier environment for Illinois residents.”

 

Here's a great reason for tire dump clean ups:

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