Hazardous waste is difficult to get rid of on the islands. Hazardous material transport is highly restricted on the passenger ferries. Most of it leaves the island on a private transport barge. It's expensive.
The primary mechanism for disposing of hazardous or dangerous waste is by using the San Juan County Hazardous Waste Round-Up collection event. This event occurs once per year, in the Spring on San Juan and Orcas and in the Fall on Lopez Island, and is partially funded by charging businesses a per gallon fee to dispose of their hazardous waste.
The disposal fee for businesses during the 2009 Round-Up collection events was $4.50/gallon. For more information about the Round-Ups, businesses and homeowners can contact Helen Venada (San Juan County Public Works). You can reach Helen at 360-370-0503.
Your chemical suppliers may have the best option: See if they can offer less toxic alternatives. Even if they cost a little more up front, they may save you money in the long run!
San Juan County’s Pollution Prevention Specialist is available to discuss disposal options with you!