The Jamestown BPU clarifies its recycling procedures.

"We can all help the recycling effort in the BPU sanitation district if we follow the procedures developed by the BPU for this purpose," says BPU Communications Coordinator Becky Robbins. "In addition, our customers may be interested in knowing why the procedures were put into place."

In 2000, the BPU distributed 15-gallon yellow recycling containers to all residents in the City of Jamestown. The purpose of the yellow container is so that every household possesses a uniform recyclables carrier that is easy for the sanitation workers to spot in the dark early-morning hours in which they are working. The containers also are an easy size and shape for sanitation workers to handle.

"Recyclables must be loose in the containers and not in plastic bags," explains Mrs. Robbins. "Any items at the curb in bags will be thrown away as garbage."

"If you have an excess of recyclables that will not fit in the yellow container," says Mrs. Robbins, "you may place an additional open container alongside the yellow container at the curb."

Extra 15-gallon yellow recycling containers are available for sale at the BPU Customer Service Office, open 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. weekdays, at 92 Steele Street, Jamestown. The cost is $6.50.

Residents are also reminded that if one moves from an address, the yellow container stays with the address. When a customer arrives at a new home, if there is no yellow container, one should call the BPU Garbage Hotline and a new container will be provided.

Customers should be aware that recyclables are sometimes "passed over" by sanitation workers because they include non-recyclable material. The BPU Recycling Calendar details what is or is not recyclable. Recycling calendars are available at BPU Customer Service or by calling the Garbage Hotline at 661-1651. Calendars may also be downloaded from www.jamestownbpu.com, the utilities' web site.

Customers who move into the BPU sanitation territory should contact the Garbage Hotline to obtain a recycling container and calendar. General questions about sanitation service may be directed to the Garbage Hotline at 661-1651.

Recyclables collected by the BPU are transported to a commercial recycling facility in Falconer where the BPU is paid for delivered recyclables.

The BPU's George Lampher, Sanitation Worker, places recyclables into the truck specifically designed for recycling collection.