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OPERATION MEDICINE DROP
Did you know that sewage treatment plants can not filter out all pharmaceuticals, and discharge hormones, antibiotics and other similar substances into our waterways?
Until recently, consumers have been told to flush unwanted drugs. With technological advances and research, low levels of drugs are being found in our surface waters. Recent research by the U.S. Geological Service now confirms that some drugs pass largely unaltered through our wastewater treatment plants and enter our Bays and other waters.
After DEA weigh-in, the 130 pounds of medications collected in Worcester County waits to be properly disposed.
Recent research has also shown that continuous exposure to low levels of medications has altered the behavior and physiology of fish and aquatic life. Male fish and crabs are being found with eggs or female organs, most likely caused by long term exposure to hormones and other endocrine disruptors.
The preferred method for disposal of unused medications is incineration. While we obviously can't stop the introduction of some pharmaceuticals into our wastewater because of normal bodily functions, we CAN control what happens to medications that are not consumed!
The Coastkeeper, in partnership with the Town of Berlin, MD Police Department, the Worcester County Sheriff's office, Worcester County Health Department, and the Ocean City Police Department, will be launching 'OPERATION MEDICINE DROP', a campaign to raise public awareness about a simple way all of us can help keep our waterways and our fish healthier - by not flushing unused medications down the drain.
So please, DON'T FLUSH! Instead, begin to collect your unused medications and bring them to these locations. Some locations are yet to be determined, but check back often as new lcoations are confirmed.
Worcester County Locations
Berlin - Police Department, 10 Williams St.Ocean Pines - Food Lion, Manklin Creek Rd.
West Ocean City - Food Lion, Rt 611
Snow Hill - Location "to be determined" (TBD)
Pocomoke - Location TBD
Ocean City - Police Department, 65th St.
Enforcement officers will be on hand to safely collect your medications and turn them over to DEA officials for proper disposal by incineration.
And remember, Don't Flush! Hold Them Until The Next Take Back!
Copyright 2012, Assateague Coastal Trust
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