Bozeman Magazine

Gallatin Solid Waste Management District and Bozeman City Sustainability are preparing for their second free Fix-It Clinic for Gallatin County. From 10am to 2pm on Saturday, September 30^th residents may bring household items and clothing in need of minor repairs to Building 2 at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds where volunteers will offer guided assistance in bringing them back to life.

 

If you’ve ever found it too intimidating to take apart a mechanical pencil, this event is for you. If you’ve been performing professional repairs for the past 20 years, this event is also for you. Local volunteer coaches will help patch clothes, fix zippers, stabilize chairs, and get toasters popping again. Among others, The Bozeman Makerspace, The Bozeman Bike Kitchen, and Owenhouse ACE Hardware will be on hand to share their knowledge and represent a fraction of the repair resources in the area. Volunteers at the inaugural Fix-It Clinic in May examined and repaired almost all of the 80 items brought by 50 participants.

 

Many area residents are looking for ways to save more money and create less trash. “I spend most of my time talking about recycling, but there are many things that can’t be recycled. Those items can often be repaired,” says Rob Pudner, Recycling Outreach Educator with GSWMD. “Taking something apart can be scary, but learning to do your own repairs gives you more power and independence, and saves you the cost of replacement.” Fix-It Clinic participants benefit by understanding why something failed, what parts are needed for repair, and how to prevent the need for future repairs.

 

Be sure to bring any parts, accessories, or special tools that may be helpful and keep everything organized in a box or bag. Some tools will be provided. Repairs are limited to items that can be carried by one person and do not have an engine. 

 

If you are handy and would like to help others, email Rob.Pudner@gallatin.mt.gov or call 406-582-2493 to sign up as a volunteer. For complete information, visit: GallatinSolidWaste.org/fixit