A pine needle collection project is being conducted by the Amador Air District to help reduce the volume of smoke generated by smoldering burn piles. Smoke from such fires is harmful to public health and creates a nuisance for residents trying to enjoy the outdoors or let fresh air into their homes. Instead of burning pine needles, pine cones, grass clippings, weeds and leaves, area residents may bring these materials to a central collection point and place them into a dumpster, starting today through Sunday, December 2nd, from dawn until dusk daily, or until the dumpster is full.

Collection locations are the parking lots of Pine Acres Community Services Building at 12990 Tabeaud Road, Pine Grove; Pioneer Park at 25100 Buckhorn Ridge Road, Pioneer; and Mace Meadow Golf Course, 26570 Fairway Drive, Pioneer. There is no charge for this service. Again, only pine needles, pinecones, grass clippings, weeds and leaves will be accepted. For more information, call the Air District at 257-0112.