PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management will hold household hazardous waste collections, by appointment, on Saturday, October 23 and Saturday, November 13 at its Eco-Depot at Fields Point, Providence.

The collections will be the last opportunity Rhode Island residents will have to dispose of their toxic materials until the Eco-Depot reopens in the spring. Residents must call 222-3434 to schedule an appointment.

Household hazardous wastes accepted include oil-based paints and stains, thinners and other household solvents; household adhesives; pesticides and herbicides; household cleansers; swimming pool and hobby chemicals; and automotive fluids such as transmission fluid, antifreeze, and dry gas. Used motor oil can be dropped off at DEM's "oil igloos" located in most communities.

The Eco-Depot is DEM's most popular residential program, and has collected more than 174,000 gallons of household hazardous waste since the facility opened in June 1995.

The Eco-Depot is operated by DEM, in cooperation with the Narragansett Bay Commission.