VALKARIA, Fla. – With summer right around the corner, Brevard County has been working to crack down on mosquito breeding grounds through its “Tire Amnesty Week.”
As part of the event, Brevard County residents are able dispose of old tires in an environmentally friendly way without being charged a disposal fee.
During Tire Amnesty Week, which runs through May 23, tires can be dropped off between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the North Area Mosquito Control Facility, located at 800 Perimeter Road in Titusville or at the South Area Mosquito Control Facility located at 3 Pilots’ Place in Valkaria.
The free opportunity was made available only for Brevard County residents, and a valid driver’s license is required as proof of residency.
Participants may drop off up to 20 tires, without rims, per household. Commercial businesses are not eligible to participate.
Mosquito Control Director Joseph Faella said proper disposal of old tires is crucial in preventing mosquito breeding, as stagnant water in discarded tires creates an ideal environment for mosquito larvae.
“The mosquito larvae grow, basically go through the life cycle in the tire,” Faella said. “The tire not only provides the water for them to grow, but also provides shelter from the sun.”
Faella said that by participating in this event, residents can help protect their community from mosquito-borne diseases and contribute to a healthier environment.
The event was being held after volunteers with Waterway Warriors spent last weekend removing 684 tires from the Indian River Lagoon.
Fred Goldstein was among the group and said he hoped the tire amnesty event would lead to a reduction in illegal dumping.
“Obviously, there are real issues about that disposal and with Mosquito Control taking those tires, cleaning them up, and recycling them, you get much better use out of the tires and obviously it’s much better for the environment,” Goldstein said.
For updates and additional information on Tire Amnesty Week, residents can contact Brevard County Mosquito Control at 321-264-5032 or visit the Mosquito Control website.
