MILTON-FREEWATER — Oregon residents have an upcoming opportunity to dispose of a wide variety of household hazardous waste items for free.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, the city of Milton-Freewater and Humbert Refuse & Recycling are sponsoring the waste collection Saturday, Sept. 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Humbert’s site, 54841 Highway 332, Milton-Freewater.

The DEQ announced the event for locals to dispose of materials and items ranging from aerosol cans to batteries to devices containing mercury, such as thermostats or thermometers. The state regulation agency stated items, whenever possible, should stay in their original containers.

The event will not take explosives, ammunition, sharps or products contain radioactive elements, such as smoke detectors.

Small businesses and farms in the Milton-Freewater area also can dispose of hazardous items for a fee, although getting rid of mercury is free. That collection takes place Friday, Sept. 22, but requires registration by Friday. To register and for more information, call 971-401-0367.