Everyone knows how unsightly it is to see old tires just tossed on the side of the road or dumped out in the woods. Other than being an eyesore they pose very serious hazards for the environment. As they break down, the toxins are carried into the waterways and cause great harm to the environment. Some of these chemicals cause cancer and skin mutations. Also, as rain water collects in them they are a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests.
Many years ago the majority of old tires wound up in landfills. Now the majority of them are repurposed. Approximately 45% are used for fuel, 20% or civil engineering. A tremendous amount are converted to ground rubber for playgrounds while yet others are repurposed for car parts and and asphalt. For reasons unknown, recycling seems to have peaked around 2013 where 93% were recycled. That number in 2020 was down to 76%.
Teller County offers some great options that make it easy for anyone to discard their old tires. Big O Tires in Woodland Park and they will take your old tires for $3.50 each. Walmart Automotive in Woodland Park will take up to two tires per day per person for free as long as they are dropped off during business hours. Walmart will also take up to 5 gallons of used oil per day. Teller Tire and Schumacher’s will take your old tires for $5 each. Please be proactive if you have old tires laying around and dispose of them wisely. If everyone will do just a little, we will be able to keep Woodland Park beautiful.
