Marion and Roane counties get piece of Tennessee motor oil collection funds

photo Republican Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam
Arkansas-Ole Miss Live Blog

Marion and Roane counties got a piece of almost $190,000 in collection grants to establish, upgrade and expand used motor oil collection centers in 15 communities across Tennessee, according to a release from Gov. Bill Haslam's office.

"It's important to educate citizens on the proper disposal of used motor oil, and the use of these convenient community collection centers can have a direct impact on the water quality of our lakes, streams and groundwater in Tennessee," Haslam said.

Marion County received $14,500 for a tank, canopy, pad, crusher, heater, pump and absorbent materials while Roane County received $24,600 for a tank, absorbent materials and a pad, according to the release.

Folks who change their own motor oil generate more than a million gallons of used oil every year, which can pollute soil and water and interfere with the operation of sewer systems if improper disposal methods are used, according to officials.

The General Assembly authorized the Used Oil Collection Act of 1993 to help local communities collect used oil and reduce its negative effects on the environment, officials said. Tennessee's Solid Waste Management Act requires counties to have at least one place in the county where used oil can be properly disposed. Used oil collection grants are funded by a 2-cent deposit on every quart of oil purchased in the state.

Officials said underserved areas are the first priority and other grants will fund iprovement or replacement of equipment in existing public and private facilities. Grant funds can be used to buy containers, used oil burners, containment structures, shelter covers and similar items, officials said.

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