October 29, 2015 – Curbside collection of organic leaf and yard waste will take place from Nov. 3-13 on regular recycling days, and the City is reminding residents that only kraft (paper) bags will be accepted.

Effective this fall, plastic bags should no longer be used. There is no bag limit, however bags cannot weigh more than 40 lbs (18 kg).

“Paper bags decompose naturally,” said Jason Sherband – Manager, Solid Waste and Recycling Services. “They can be added directly to the compost pile at the Solid Waste and Recycling Facility so there’s no chance of plastic contamination in the resulting compost.”

“Leaf and yard waste put out at the curb is added to the compost pile and the result is a rich soil additive for flower gardens and lawns,” added Sherband. “As a bonus, putting organic waste out for this special collection helps extend the life of our landfill site by reducing the waste that ends up on the garbage face.”

Sticks and branches will also be collected, and they must be bundled with rope or twine, and be less than one metre (39 inches) long and no more than 61 cm or (24 inches) in diameter. Grass clippings will not be accepted.

Residents should place leaf and yard waste at the curb with recyclables on the regular recycling day, as indicated on the waste collection calendars with a leaf symbol.

For more information, call Infrastructure & Operations dispatch at 625-2195.

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Contact: Jason Sherband, Manager – Solid Waste and Recycling Services, 625-3851