Proper Disposal of Pharmaceuticals
This program is funded by the PA Department of Environmental Protection’s Source Water Protection Program
A few small steps can make a huge impact in safeguarding the environment.
Take unused, unneeded, or expired prescription drugs out of their original containers and throw them in the trash.
Mixing prescription drugs with an undesirable substance, such as sawdust or used coffee grounds or kitty litter, and putting them in impermeable, non-descript containers, such as empty cans or sealable bags, will further ensure the drugs are not diverted.
Flush prescription drugs down the toilet only if the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs doing so.
If available, take advantage of community pharmaceutical take-back programs that allow the public to bring unused drugs to a central location for proper disposal. Greenville West-Salem Police Department has a drop-off location at 125 Main Street in Greenville.
For more information on the proper disposal of pharmaceuticals:
What is Source Water Protection?
The goal of source water protection is preventing contaminants from entering waterways that serve as our drinking water sources. Protecting our source water from pollutants not only protects our drinking water supplies, but it also makes economic sense, as it can be extremely costly to remove pollutants from drinking water sources through complex treatments. Protecting our source water also helps protect the natural environment by providing a healthy habitat for countless species.
The source water for Greenville Water Authority customers is from the Shenango River. To further strengthen our source water protection efforts, GWA has volunteered to participate in the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Source Water Protection Program.
Through the Source Water Protection Program, a source water protection plan was developed for the GWA water system. The plan guides GWA’s source water protection efforts in the future. Greenville Water Authority is happy to assist customers in learning more about source water protection efforts. Call us for more information.
More Ways to Help
Greenville Water Authority is working nonstop to provide our customers with a clean and reliable source of drinking water, and we could use your help!
Steps to help us protect our water supplies
Dispose of motor oil at a garage that will recycle it. Never pour oil on the ground or in a storm drain or sewer on the street.
Bring household hazardous waste – such as paint, varnishes, and other chemicals to recycling facilities. Check the Mercer County website for details.
Minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides on your lawn and garden.
Do not dump swimming pool water into a creek or storm drain at the end of the season. If possible, direct the water into the sanitary sewer. Otherwise, wait until the chlorine diminishes and then direct water into grass, forest, or other natural area.
Remember: Anything you throw or store on the ground can find its way into waterways. Anything you flush down the toilet or rinse down a sink will end up in a waterway. Store, handle and dispose of all chemicals properly.
Call the Department of Environmental Protection at 814-332-6945 immediately if you observe a chemical spill.
A Message from Greenville Water Authority
We work around the clock to provide top quality water to every tap. It is a task that we are proud of and take very seriously. We work hard to protect our water resources, which are the heart of our community, our way of life and our children’s future.
To maintain a clean, dependable water supply, we need your help. This brochure was developed to make our community aware of the importance of proper disposable of prescription medications.
Please read web page carefully. If you have any additional questions, please refer to the federal guidelines, cited in this brochure or contact Greenville Water Authority at 724 588-4340.
