The spring 2004 "VCMAX-Discards Available & Wanted" reuse catalog has been released by the Environmental and Energy Resources Department of Ventura County.

VCMAX, a user-friendly matchmaking service for reusable discards, enables businesses, residents, schools and nonprofits to place free "wanted" or "available" ads for items in categories including construction, containers, electronics, durable goods, glass, metal, organics, paint, pallets, paper, plastic, textiles and wood.

Examples of the current catalog’s available listings include chain link fencing, new and used paving tiles, furniture, a futon bed, metal roofing, new computer diskettes, older working computers and copy machines, and paint. Most listings are free and none can be priced at more than $100.

Materials exchanges give reusable materials a second chance for use keeping them out of the landfills.

Visit the VCMAX "Virtual Warehouse" at www.VCMAX.org, which links readers to the Kid-MAX Crafts pages, featuring easy projects made from recyclables. The "VCMAX-Available @ Auction" and "Available For Sale" pages also list county vehicles and other available surplus items.

For a free catalog or more information, please call VCMAX coordinator Pandee Leachman at (805) 289-3120.