Certain lichen species thrive only in exceptionally pristine environments. The North Cascades area is lucky to host hundreds of species of lichen, but perhaps the most loved is the usnea longissima, known also as Old Man’s Beard or Methuselah’s Beard. Known for a wide variety of medicinal uses, it can grow up to five feet in length. On a clear day in the morning, watch for the dew drops that dangle and twinkle and capture the sunlight. Poor air quality can impede their metabolism.
The burning of garbage creates toxic fumes that deter many species from growth. It may seem harmless to burn your boxes from common subscription shipments or beverage cases, however waterproofing and fireproofing as well as preservatives may be applied to paper packaging. Burning packaging, furniture or other household refuse may be hazardous to your health as well as the health of neighbors, pets and wildlife.
Many area residences and businesses can sign up with Waste Management curbside services. WM offers about a dozen options from small cans to large dumpsters and everything in between. At this time they do not offer services other than trash disposal. They also offer one time services like curbside pickup for large items or temporary dumpster.
For limited recycling, including, oil, cardboard, plastic, metal and more, there are a few options. The closest transfer station is the Sauk Transfer Station, between Rockport and Concrete. They offer limited disposal options so be sure to check the website for specifications. Many of the recycling options are free. No construction debris is accepted here.
Sauk Transfer Station
50796 State Route 20
Concrete, Washington 98237
360-853-8810
9am-5pm Thursday-Sunday
The Skagit County Recycling and Transfer Station is a longer drive but will take nearly anything. Construction debris, appliances, yard debris and furniture can be taken here. They offer the most options for household recycling as well as hazardous waste. Check the website for hazardous waste disposal as it is only on certain weekends.
Skagit County Recycling and Transfer Station
14104 Ovenell Rd
Mt Vernon, Washington
360-416-1570
8:30am-6pm daily
Not everybody has the ability or desire to move or haul furniture and appliances and until recently, it was a true gamble to hire somebody locally that might have the time, truck/trailer and ability. The gambling days are over with family and locally owned Back Forty Junk Haulers. Owned by Eric and Ashley Shuler, they can help with clean up and their prices are fair and right up front. Eric will come out to your property, take a look around and give you an estimate on the spot. When possible, he takes care of the job right then and there.
Back Forty Junk Haulers
backfortyjunkhaulers.com
Eric and Ashley Shuler
425-399-6457
