With the West Nile virus alive and well in Texas, the city of Brownwood is trying to rid the city of any mosquito-breeding areas, starting with discarded tires.

Leaving old tires outside on the ground is considered solid waste and storing them that way is a violation of City Health and Safety Ordinances.

Tires retain water, making them a primary place for mosquitoes to breed.

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water.

Sanitation inspector Paul Coghlan has noticed discarded tires in people's yards and ditches.

"These are old tires here, and they're still holding water, and they will hold water until we get them out of here, and we will," said Coghlan.

To help reduce the population of mosquitoes that may be carrying the West Nile virus, Pride for Areas Surrounding Schools is hosting a tire roundup for Brownwood residents to get rid of their old tires at no charge.

The tire roundup will be from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 24, and Saturday Aug.  25.

Brownwood residents can bring six tires to be discarded properly for free at 1000 Avenue B and 1005 Irma Street, vacant lots across from Coggin Elementary School.

Tires can be no larger than those on cars and pick-up trucks.

The event is sponsored by the city of Brownwood and Brownwood ISD.

For more information, call 325-646-5331.