The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 requires full-power television stations to turn off their analog channels by Feb. 17, 2009 and begin broadcasting exclusively in a digital format.

Digital television stations can broadcast multiple channels of programming at one time (called multi-casting), instead of broadcasting one channel at a time. DTV technology can also be used to deliver future interactive video and data services that analog technology can't provide.

The change to DTV may result in the replacement many older TVs with newer sets. TVs have been determined to contain hazardous materials and state law requires that they must be disposed of properly. In addition to hazardous materials, TVs also contain various valuable metals, plastic and glass which make them perfect for recycling.

In Amador County, residents can recycle TVs at either the ACES Pine Grove transfer station or the Amador Disposal Service transfer station on Buena Vista Road any day during their normal business hours with a limit of two sets per family. This program is sponsored by ACES, ADS, and the county Waste Management Department.

For more information on recycling locations in Amador County, visit www.co.amador.ca.us/depts/waste or call 223-6429. For more information on the switch to digital TV, visit www.dtvanswers.com or call (888) TDV-2009.