The Mecosta Conservation District in Big Rapids has received a $5,000 donation from Gotion Inc. to help sponsor a countywide tire recycling event on Thursday, Aug. 8 in Big Rapids.

Chuck Thelen, vice president of Gotion Inc. – North American Manufacturing, said the monetary gift is part of Gotion’s ongoing commitment to donate to nonprofit organizations in Mecosta County that keep people safe, help those in need, and protect the environment.

“Gotion’s commitment to safeguarding our environment extends far beyond creating advanced battery technologies,” Thelen said. “By helping fund this important recycling event, we are supporting the safe and sustainable disposal of old tires while contributing to a cleaner, greener future in Mecosta County.”

Gotion Inc. has made separate donations to the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety to purchase fire detectors for area families and Women’s Information Services Inc. (WISE) to help women and children in need in Mecosta County.

The tire recycling event takes place on Aug. 8 from 3-6 p.m. at the Mecosta County Fairgrounds, 540 West Ave., Big Rapids. Standard passenger vehicle and light truck tires will be accepted free of charge. There is a 10-tire drop-off limit.

"The community's support and donations are extremely important for the continued success of the long-standing Household Hazardous Waste Program and the new Tire Recycling Program,” said Brook Baumann, district administrator for the Mecosta Conservation District.  “When Gotion approached us and expressed interest in helping out, we welcomed the idea and appreciated the opportunity to provide these services to our Mecosta County residents.”

For more information about the recycling event, residents can call the Mecosta Conservation District at 989-309-9229.