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BLUE EARTH COUNTY
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Very
Small
Quantity
Generator
    Program

A program to dispose of commercial & industrial hazardous waste

What is the VSQG program?
The Regional VSQG Program is set up to help businesses and non-profit organizations dispose of small amounts of hazardous waste which they produce. Any business generating hazardous waste must comply with state and federal rules and regulations in order to protect themselves, their employees, and the environment. This program gives businesses easy access to a cost-effective means of disposal, thereby avoiding potential environmental, financial, and health and safety problems.

Who can participate?
Businesses and/or organizations which generate 660 pounds or less of hazardous waste per year and are located within the six-county region can participate in this program. The six county region includes Blue Earth, Brown, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Sibley and Watonwan counties. There is a one-time clean out of 2,200 pounds per participant. After the one-time clean out, the 660 pounds per year is the maximum amount that this program can take.

How to get started?
The first step in the process is to acquire an EPA ID (Environmental Protection Agency Identification) Number. To do this, complete a Notification of Regulated Waste Activity Form according to the Instructions for Regulated Waste Activity. This will register your business or organization with an EPA ID Number and qualify you to participate in the Regional VSQG Program. All (business) generators of hazardous waste are required by federal and state regulations to obtain an EPA ID Number. To receive an EPA ID Number application and/or assistance, Blue Earth County businesses can contact the County VSQG spokesperson at 304-4381 or fax at 304-4431

Acceptable Wastes -
The following is a partial list of acceptable wastes:
Aerosols
Paint Related Products
Acids and Bases
Pesticides
Antifreeze
Plating Wastes
Batteries
Poisons
Cleaning Agents
Pool Chemicals
Degreasers
Resins and Epoxies
Gasoline/Fuel
Solvents/Thinners
Glues and Adhesives
Strippers
Laboratory Wastes
Waste Inks
Mercuric Wastes
Wood Preservatives
Paints (oil & latex)

Wastes not accepted -
Explosives
Infectious Wastes
Radioactive Wastes
Gas Cylinders

The next step -
Businesses that have their EPA ID Number can receive the VSQG Information Packet from their county spokesperson. This will provide instructions on how to safely package, store, transport, and manage hazardous wastes. Once all forms are completed correctly, a drop off date will be scheduled. Waste will be accepted at the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at specific times, by pre-approval process only.

Costs to Participants -
The VSQG Program offers a cost-effective method to dispose of hazardous wastes. Only direct disposal costs will be charged to VSQGs, while handling and administrative costs are paid by the county. Costs are calculated depending on the type and amount of waste to be disposed. A current price list will be included in the VSQG Information Packet sent to businesses who have already obtained their EPA ID Number.

Stop waste where it starts -
Proper disposal protects human health and the environment, prevents costly tax funded cleanups, and can deter hefty fines levied on those who do not dispose of their waste correctly. Although the counties have created the VSQG Program as a cost effective, easily accessible method for disposal, the best alternative to disposal is pollution prevention and waste reduction. County staff is available to answer questions and assist businesses on reducing the amounts of hazardous waste they generate. Stop pollution at its source by reducing, reusing, and recycling.

VSQG FLOWCHART

  1. Acquire an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ID Number
  2. Receive Information Packet with VSQG Application Form
  3. Complete and send application Form to VSQG Spokesperson
  4. Approved VSQG sent appropriate guidelines and labels required for proper disposal
  5. Drop off date determined
  6. Transport of hazardous waste to Blue Earth County Regional Facility
  7. Drop off wastes and pay disposal costs

Hours By Appointment Only

To learn more about...
pollution prevention and waste reduction...

Call...
(507) 304-4381





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