Collier County’s emergency debris removal contractor, AshBritt, reported collecting the one millionth cubic yard of Hurricane Irma-related debris today. Of the estimated 4.3 million cubic yards of debris caused by Hurricane Irma, the to-date collection of 1,040,171 cubic yards puts the county a quarter of the way home to having all the debris picked up. Storm-related debris includes trees, branches, shrubs and other vegetation. It also includes downed fencing, flooring, furniture, wallboard and other debris being removed from homes due to structural damage or flooding. “We understand people want the debris to go away quickly,” said Collier County Public Utilities Deputy Department Head Dan Rodriguez. “The good news is; it is going away. Maybe not as quickly as everyone would like, but it is getting picked up.” “We’re working closely with our contractors to provide additional resources as they become available.” Rodriguez said. Currently AshBritt has 235 debris units actively deployed across the county. Based on the current collection rate, Rodriguez estimates a full first pass throughout the county will be complete by late November, with the full debris collection mission substantially complete before the end of the year. For more information, residents may call Public Utilities Customer Service at (239) 252- 2380. For media inquiries, contact Public Information Coordinator Margie Hapke at (239) 252-2679 or margiehapke@colliergov.net.