You no longer have to wait for a Medication Collection to take place during a Hazardous Waste Clean Sweep Event to properly dispose of unwanted medications.  Since Polk County residents have demonstrated the need to properly dispose of their medications, a permanent drop-off location is now available.  The Polk County Sherriff’s Department has taken the initiative in hosting the medication drop-off site.  The public is able to bring their unwanted or expired medications to the lobby of the Sheriff’s Department at the Justice Center, and deposit them in the secure locked chamber 24 hours a day.  Polk County Sheriff’s Department will collaborate with the Polk County Solid Waste Department in the transportation and disposal of the medications to a licensed facility in La Crosse County.

The potential for poisoning and medication abuse will be dramatically reduced.  Law enforcement personnel believe “this will cut down on medication thefts and the horrible intent to create worse substances with over-the-counter drugs.” Waterways will also be protected because there is no longer an excuse for flushing unwanted or expired medications down the drain.  Polk County will have a safer and healthier community thanks to the cooperation of the Sheriff's Department and public participants.  For additional information contact Polk County Parks, Forestry, Buildings & Solid Waste at 715-485-9294.