Heavy equipment such as tractors, skidders and large trucks are commonly used in forestry activities. Consequently, routine maintenance activities including oil changes, often take place at the work site, i.e. “in the woods”. Proper collection and disposal of waste oil is necessary to prevent soil and water contamination and to promote oil recycling.
Florida Law prohibits the discharge of pollutants both on the ground and in waterbodies. Pollutants include petroleum products of all kinds, including used oil. The discharge itself and the failure to report the discharge may be subject to penalties under Florida Law and Federal Law. Discharges or spills should be reported in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection rules.
BMPs for Waste Disposal
Waste Oil
- During equipment maintenance, waste oil should be collected and stored until properly disposed:
- Do not discharge waste oil or other pollutants on the ground, in sinkholes, or in waterbodies of any kind (including wetlands and canals).
- Do not mix waste oil with other materials such as degreasing solvents, carburetor cleaners, etc. Such mixing may render the waste oil unsuitable for recycling and therefore unacceptable at recycling centers.
Solid Waste
- Do not dispose of solid wastes, such as trash, litter, containers, etc. into waterbodies of any kind.
- Remove trash, litter and other solid wastes from project areas. In particular, remove and properly dispose of all chemical containers, hydraulic fluid and oil containers, oil filters, batteries, and tires.
Note: For information concerning oil spill reporting requirements, contact the local Department of Environmental Protection office at 1-800-320-0519.
Note: Most counties in Florida maintain a waste oil collection facility which will accept used oil and hydraulic fluid. Contact your County Landfill Operation for the nearest location of such a facility.
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