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With residents and businesses in Freeborn County throwing away almost 24,000 tons of trash in 2024, the city of Albert Lea and Freeborn County encourage everyone to reduce waste, recycle more and reuse items when possible, according to a press release.

At 14,219 tons last year, recycling did increase slightly from past years, according to Freeborn County Environmental Services. The county also kept 25 tons of old electronics out of landfills and properly handled 19 tons of household hazardous waste.

How to reduce trash

• Use less: People should ask themselves if they really need something before buying new. Try to buy things that last a long time or buy used items.
• Fix it up: If something breaks, try to fix it instead of buying a new one. There are repair videos online or ask for help at a repair shop.
• Give it away: Thrift stores and charities can give old items a new home.
• Get creative: Turn old junk into new items. For example, use old jars to hold items and old clothes to make new items.
• Recycle right: Use Freeborn County’s single stream recycling for paper, plastic and cans.
• Electronics and chemicals: For electronics and hazardous waste like paint and chemicals, Freeborn County has a drop-off at 2020 Pioneer Trail on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Freeborn County residents can dispose of household hazardous items for free with varied fees for recycling electronics. For more information, visit www.co.freeborn.mn.us/132/Environmental-Services or call 507-377-5186.
• Yard waste into compost: Turn leaves and grass into compost for gardens or dispose of yard waste at the Albert Lea Transfer Station. A yearly compost permit is only $13 for city residents. Albert Lea residents can get a free compost permit by joining the “Adopt-a-Drain” program with the Shell Rock River Watershed District. To sign up, go to www.shellrock.org.

Transfer Station a last resort

For items that can’t be recycled or reused, take them to the Transfer Station, 2506 W. Richway Drive. Summer hours are now in effect:

• Monday: 3 to 7 p.m.
• Tuesday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Wednesday: 3 to 7 p.m.
• Thursday: Closed
• Friday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Sunday: Closed

Spring cleanup set for April 26

The city of Albert Lea will hold its annual spring cleanup April 26, from 9 a.m. to noon. Residents with proof of city residency may deposit the following at the Transfer Station.

• One load of brush, yard waste, household garbage or demolition debris: No charge

• Appliances, sofas and mattresses: $10 each

• Furniture pieces: $5 each

• Passenger car tires: $3 each

For rims and electronics: Regular rates will apply

For more information, visit cityofalbertlea.org/transfer-station or call 507-377-4325.