The University of Alabama program, Project R.O.S.E. (Recycled Oil Saves Energy) has served as the state's used oil education and outreach program for do-it-yourself oil changers since 1977.

    Used motor oil can contain toxic chemicals including lead, chromium, and cadmium which when not properly disposed can contaminate our soil and water.

    "The amount of oil from a single passenger car (one gallon) can contaminate 1 million gallons of fresh water, a year's supply for 50 people," said Charlotte Nix, assistant coordinator of Project R.O.S.E.

    For information, call (800) 452-5901 toll free in Alabama, or log onto the Project R.O.S.E. Web site at http://prose.eng.ua.edu.