Quarterly Newsletter – April 2026

Keep Wildlife Out of Waste Carts and Green Spaces

Manage Waste Carts

• Store Carts Properly: Store carts in a secure locked building between collection. Businesses need to secure outdoor grease bins. On your scheduled collection day, place your carts or bins at the curb between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m., not the night before as this attracts wildlife. Fines may be issued for carts or bins placed on the curb outside this window.
• Report Damaged Carts: If your cart/clips are damaged, contact the City.
• Lock Cart Clips: Carts left outside must have both clips locked and be chained to a strong post or tree between collection. Lock and secure outdoor freezers too!

Manage Attractants

• Pick all domestic fruit and nuts as they ripen.
• Install electric fencing.
• Remove bird seed and feeders until winter.
• Feed pets inside. Store pet food inside.
• Clean BBQs/grills after each use.

Reduce Odours

• Freeze Smelly Food Items: Freeze smelly food items (meat, bones, rotten fruit, etc.). Add them to your organics cart on your collection day.

• Remove Excess Waste: Take excess garbage and yard waste to the Ootischenia Landfill, 671 Columbia Road. Yard waste is accepted year-round for a fee but is free during the months of May and October. More details at rdck.ca.

• Clean Your Carts Regularly: Rinse your bin with a garden hose and clean with an environmentally-friendly soap, or half cup of white vinegar and water. Pour soapy water onto grass or gravel, not outdoor drains.

• Line The Bottom of Your Cart: Line the bottom of your cart with newspaper, a paper bag or yard waste to absorb excess moisture and prevent food from sticking to the bottom. Add ¼ cup baking soda and ¼ cup of Borax to absorb odours. Spraying your cart lid with an ammonia based cleaner acts as a deterrent to bears.