For Release 9-27-01

For More Information Contact     Brian Button 515-281-7832

Airwaves will carry educational messages this autumn to encourage Iowans to consider cleaner waste disposal options as opposed to burning garbage and leaves, DNR officials announced today.

The October radio campaign will stress the benefits of proper waste management and educate people about environmental and health concerns related to burn barrel emissions and leaf smoke.

The $40,000 campaign is funded by grants and does not use state budget resources.

“The awareness goal is part of a larger DNR effort to assist citizens in making their own informed decisions and choices,” said DNR air information specialist, Brian Button. He noted that backyard garbage burning releases significant amounts of toxins and that leaf smoke causes health concerns.

The ads will run on radio stations statewide. “We hope to get people talking about the issue locally and in their homes to discuss options and discover better disposal solutions.” Many states have taken a similar educational approach to increase awareness and reduce burning.

“Hopefully the radio ads will foster voluntary curtailment of burning. More citizens are concerned about smoke these days and many are working to find cleaner, safer options,” he said.