On July 16, 2025, EPA was informed that the La Junta
High school and other area schools had completed cleanouts of their
chemistry labs, generating a significant amount of chemicals that could
not be properly disposed of by the schools themselves. The Otero
County Health Department and the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment requested EPA’s assistance in safely removing these
materials.
To support this effort, The Otero County Health
Department established a staging area where chemicals will be
separated by hazard class. Beginning on August 19th, EPA will work
with contractors to verify the chemicals dropped off, categorize them,
and prepare them for disposal. By removing outdated and potentially
dangerous chemicals, EPA helps to ensure a safer learning environment for
children and staff.
Important information:
-Schools interested in participating should contact EPA or
the Otero County Health Department for details.
-Participation is limited to schools only. This is not a
household hazardous waste collection event.
