Municipalities impose burn bans

Both the Antrim Township and Greencastle governments have taken action in response to the lack of rainfall and dry conditions this summer.

Antrim Township and Greencastle each imposed a burn ban Aug. 1. The borough proclamation was for seven days, however it has been instituted again for another seven days.

The proclamation from Mayor Robert E. Eberly stated that this in no way restricts the fireworks desplay for the Old Home Week celebration.

Due to the lack of adequate rainfall, dry and windy conditions, open fires were prohibited in Antrim Township at noon Aug. 1 to last until the Board of Supervisors determine that these conditions no longer exist. Recent rainfall in Antrim Township was not significant enough to relieve the dry conditions and the reducing water supply, according to authorities. The burn ban may be lifted immediately when the area receives adequate rainfall.

Open burning has created careless fires in recent weeks in the area. Local fire departments must use water to extinguish these fires. Many water drafting locations from ponds and streams are no longer available for the fire service to use and taking water from public water systems reduces the amount of this resource available for domestic use. This combination potentially creates a hazard to health, comfort, safety and property of the citizens of Antrim Township.

Antrim Township residents may take four bags of household trash to the Mountain View Landfill along Letzburg Road any Saturday from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. without charge as long as they display a "Resident Disposal Card." This card may be obtained by calling 597-4056.

The Antrim Township Recycling Center is open each Saturday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. along Antrim Church Road. You may drop off glass bottles, aluminum or bi-metallic cans, plastic containers (#1 and 2 PETE on the bottom) newspapers and flattened cardboard.

Conservation and protection of our water supply is most critical. Antrim Township appreciates the cooperation of its citizens.

The borough ban includes the use of burn barrels. Officials will re-evaluate the ban Aug. 14.