Nesquehoning residents can begin preparing for recycling items again in the borough.

Last month, borough council approved a five-year curbside pickup recycling contract with Tamaqua Transfer, and it begins in October.

RoniSue Ahner, borough secretary-treasurer, announced that the start date for twice-a-month pickup is Oct. 7 for Lake Hauto residents and Oct. 8 for the rest of the borough. After that, the collections will remain every other Monday for Lake Hauto and every other Tuesday for the rest of town, with minor exceptions for holidays.

Recyclables can be placed in any type of can or receptacle marked recycling or clear plastic bag, as long as collection crews can see the items. No black trash bags will be taken during the collections.

All recyclables should be out at the curb before 5 a.m. on collection day.

Accepted recycling items include white envelopes; computer, fax or copy paper; magazines and catalogs; phone books; paperback books; newspaper; cardboard; junk mail; green, clear or brown glass bottles; tin or bimetallic containers; aluminum cans; and plastic containers marked 1 through 7.

Items that should not be in your recycling include pizza boxes; food waste; plastic bags; plastic wrap; waxed cartons; Styrofoam; foam cups or containers; dishes; glass windows; mirrors; yard waste or compost; wood; paper plates; paper towels; napkins; cups; light bulbs; lids and caps; plastic toys; storage containers; furniture; containers containing liquid, food or any hazardous material; ceramics.

The borough stresses that all caps and lids must be removed from containers and containers, glass and cans must be cleaned and empty. All cardboard must also be broken down, tied or bundled.