The Ottawa River Coalition established the “Tired of Tires” project in 2023. This initiative is to help rid our beautiful rivers of those ugly tires. Not only are tires unsightly but they can cause a great disturbance to wildlife by leaching chemicals into the water, impeding flow, and trapping animals. “It feels good to make a difference where we can” ORC Chairman Adam Haunhorst states. “Especially when you are able to be so hands on in that difference,” Executive Director Lydia Archambo adds.

On Friday September 20, 2023,  three volunteers pulled over 50 tires within a 150-yard stretch of the Ottawa River between the Metcalf Road bridge and dam.

The Coalition would like to send a HUGE thank you to our partners at the City of Lima Public Works and Streets Departments for coordinating a dump truck for all the pulled debris. The City of Lima would like residents to know they can dispose of up to 4 passenger tires per year at no cost by dropping them off at Rumpke Lima Transfer Station at 1400 S. Metcalf Street and presenting their water bill along with a photo ID.  Also, every spring, the city hosts the Mayor’s Spring Cleanup when residents can dispose of unwanted materials.

Let this serve as a reminder that the river is no place for tires. You will see more of the ORC in the river helping where we can. Archambo jokes, “Give a wave if you see us! We are probably tired and that will make us a smile!”