Free Drop-Off Recycling Center Expands Hours Along County Route
Austin, CO · August 22, 2026
Saturdays along the river move a little slower, but there is plenty kicking off across the valley today. From expanded drop-off recycling options to live evening music, here is what you need to know over your morning cup.
The Lead
Delta County has officially expanded operating hours at the Bruin Waste recycling facility along Austin Road, giving local residents broader access to free drop-off recycling. Under a new partnership between county commissioners and facility operators, the site has added full-day Monday service and pushed closing times back to 6:00 p.m. on both Mondays and Fridays.
The schedule shift aims to remove logistical hurdles for working families who previously struggled to drop off recyclables during standard weekday business hours. County officials note that a significant portion of household waste currently sent to the Adobe Buttes Landfill consists of easily recyclable cardboard, metals, and plastics. Delta County is offsetting operational costs to keep residential drop-off completely free, with the expanded schedule taking effect immediately for all county residents.
Local Pulse
Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Remain Strict Countywide County officials urge extreme caution as dry brush and high temperatures keep all open burning prohibited today.
Paonia Enacts Immediate Stage 2 Water Restrictions Town leaders limit lawn irrigation to protect dipping drinking water storage levels as drought conditions strain local springs.
Delta County Search and Rescue Hosts Benefit Run Riders gather today for a scenic poker run from Mountain Top Resort to Vega Lodge supporting local emergency teams.
Today's Outlook
- High 97°F · Low 67°F — Drizzle Stay hydrated in the intense heat today, though light afternoon drizzles might bring brief relief.
What's On Around Town
Hotchkiss: Tripple Turn Barrel Race Delta County Fairgrounds, All Day Watch local equestrians compete in fast-paced arena action throughout the day.
Palisade: Palisade Peach Festival Riverbend Park, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM Enjoy peach-eating contests, vendor markets, live music, and farm-fresh treats nearby.
Hotchkiss: Saturday Sessions Big B's Delicious Orchards (39126 Hwy 133), 7:00–9:00 PM Free outdoor music set among apple trees with local cider available.
Delta: Michael Morrow & The Culprits Delta Roadhouse (215 Ute St), 8:00–11:00 PM High-octane hard rock and blues live on stage for Saturday night.
Spotlight & Story
- Big B's Delicious Orchards
- Started in 1973 by Bernie Heideman and operated by the Schwartz family since 2002, this Highway 133 orchard processes millions of pounds of Western Slope fruit annually. Their commitment to organic pressing, U-pick trees, and open-air concerts keeps generations returning every summer.
Austin Daily Digest — compiled from local sources as of 6 AM. For breaking updates, follow your local newsrooms.
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