MUCH TO UNLOAD — Crews removed televisions, record players and many other electronic devices from vehicles during the JB Green Team’s electronics and hazardous household waste collections on Saturday at the Jefferson County Industrial Park. -- Warren Scott

It’s been a busy week for the JB Green Team, with two major collections behind them and participation in the Ohio River Sweep set for Saturday.

The regional recycling agency invites area residents to collect litter at the Steubenville Marina from 9 a.m. to noon that day, with participants to receive a free T-shirt and snacks.

The cleanup is expected to be held rain or shine, but those interested in participating are asked to call (740) 266-6899.

Officials with the agency reported high turnout for collections on June 14 of hazardous household waste, electronics and material called expandable polystyrene but often referred to as Styrofoam.

The JB Green Team began accepting the packaging material at some of its recycling bins earlier this year.

But it was hundreds of residents bringing their household waste and electronics who formed a long string of vehicles extending from the agency’s headquarters at the Jefferson County Industrial Park to state Route 43.

JB Green Team Executive Director Anita Petrella said the large turnout hadn’t been foreseen and plans are being made to prevent that from happening when a similar collection is held Oct. 4 in Belmont County.

She also apologized for those with hazardous household waste who were turned away at 1 p.m. because of contractual issues with the recycling company hired to dispose of it.

Petrella said for reasons of safety, only staff with the company may handle that waste, but JB Green Team staff members were able to remain until 3:40 p.m. that day to unload the electronic devices.

She thanked all participants for their efforts to ensure such materials are properly disposed of and not creating a risk to the environment.

Petrella said the electronics filled three and a half tractor trailers.

The JB Green Team added the loads to its annual collection of hazardous household waste ranging from chemical household cleaners and lawn and garden products to automotive fluids and certain batteries.

It was moved this year from the lot of the Fort Steuben Mall to the industrial park while the Belmont County collection also will have a new location: the Belmont County Fairgrounds off Roscoe Road in St. Clairsville.

Residents of Jefferson or Belmont counties may participate in either collection but should bring proof of their residency.

Details of materials that will be accepted at the later collection will be announced prior to that date.