Hoping to cut down on illegal dumping, the York County Solid Waste Authority is offering a free tire-disposal program that will start next week and continue for a month.

Beginning March 22, county residents can unload up to 10 tires at the York County Resource Recovery Center, 2651 Blackbridge Road in Manchester Township. Businesses are not eligible.

Proper tire disposal helps eliminate potential mosquito breeding grounds, according to a news release.

The program coincides with Earth Day and is designed to support the anti-litter efforts of Keep York County Beautiful.

Tires must be off the rim and cannot be dirty, full of water or exceed a diameter of 32 inches.

The program will last through April 23.

Most garbage haulers will also collect tires at the curb, according to the news release.

"This special tire acceptance program is being held to raise awareness that tires should be properly disposed of as household waste and to help prevent illegal dumping of tires," said Dave Vollero, the authority's executive director, according to the news release.

Registration is required. To register and schedule a drop-off time, call Jen Cristofoletti at (717) 845-1066 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday starting March 22.

-- Erin James may also be reached at ejames@yorkdispatch.com.