Spring is fast approaching, and with the warmer weather comes the desire to rid the house of its winter hoard. The transfer station's "pick pile" has been a popular destination for unwanted items, but Boothbay Region Refuse Disposal District (BRRDD) decided to close it last November due to insurance liability concerns.

“The insurance discourages it, and they can't give us a straight answer whether we would actually be covered knowingly operating it against their recommendations,” explained Will Johnson, BRRDD station manager.  

If BRRDD did open the pile, the district would have to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations. This would include adding a ramp and jersey barriers extending into the parking lot, said Johnson. While BBRRDD directors can choose to reopen the pick pile at any time, the issue is tabled for the foreseeable future. The board further closed the door during a March 12 meeting, where they decided to send the pick shed out to bid for a minimum of $2,500. 

In the absence of the pile, several local places accept donations of usable items.   

Boothbay Harbor: 

St. Andrews Auxiliary Thrift Shop  

185 Townsend Ave., Monday – Friday 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.   

Donations accepted during business hours. Not accepted: pillows, mattresses/box springs, headboards, safety equipment, mobility items, electric blankets, power tools, electronics, appliances, cots/cribs, strollers, bouncers, walkers and car/booster seats. Books and large furniture are accepted on a case-by-case basis. 

Midcoast Humane Thrift Shop  

153 Townsend Ave., Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Drop offs deadline is 3:30 p.m.  

Donations accepted during business hours. Not accepted: electronics, large appliances, large furniture, cribs, strollers, bouncers, walkers and car/booster seats. 

Rotary Barn  

66 Montgomery Road, Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. .   

Drop-offs are welcome during open hours starting April 4. Pickups can be arranged by calling 207 619-1417 or emailing rotarybarnpickup@gmail.com. Not accepted: clothing, large appliances, beds/bedframes/mattresses, electronics, exercise equipment, sleeper sofas, pianos and organs.   

The Community Center’s Durable Medical Equipment Program  

185 Townsend Ave., Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.   

Donations and pickups are accepted during business hours. Call if interested in a particular item and arrange to collect it outside business hours. Call (207) 633-9876. Accepts medical equipment ranging from walkers and shower stools to bed pads and diapers. Does not accept any new or old medical tubing, exercise equipment, braces, or oral care items.   

Our Lady Queen of Peace  

82 Atlantic Ave. 

Will begin taking donations for its summer yard sale in June. Not accepted: clothes, exercise equipment, appliances and electronics.   

Edgecomb: 

Edgecomb Community Church  

15 Cross Point Road, Tuesday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.  

Donations can be left in the bins at the side entrance door, preferably during business hours. Not accepted: electronics and large items.