Composting – Nearly 35 per cent of the material dumped in our landfill is biodegradable waste that produces methane due to decomposition in anaerobic conditions. Methane is a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide – a major contributor to climate change. Home composting can easily divert organic waste into useful fertilizer for your garden. It’s a convenient disposal mechanism for kitchen scraps, leaves and other yard waste. There are many options available including apartment-sized worm bins, self-contained units (pictured) and permanent sectional garden structures. For information on starting your own compost, the Campbell River Compost Education Centre is open from April to October.
Curbside Collection – Weekly curbside yard waste collection is available throughout the spring and summer and fall (First wee in March to the last week in November). Exact program dates can be found here.
Outdoor trimmings and leaves are accepted, along with sod and small amounts of soil. Kitchen waste, animal feces and non-biodegradable materials are not accepted. Material will need to be placed in either compostable bags or clearly-labeled open-top rigid containers (max 80L).
Yard Waste Drop-off Centre - The Yard waste drop-off site is currently closed while the contractor finds a new site. You can drop-off unlimited amounts of grass and leaves (no chipping required) at the landfill for free, however if you do have any sticks or items that require chipping you will be charged. City of Campbell River residents continue to have unlimited curbside pick-up.
Illegal Dumping Dangers – While biodegradable, incorrectly disposed yard waste has a serious impact on our environment and biodiversity conservation. Piles of yard waste attract rats and pests that spread disease and venture into our homes. It only takes one spark to ignite dried out piles of branches and prunings. Dumped yard waste smothers seedlings, carries plant disease, and causes nitrogen deficiencies in the soil that can kill native plants. Not only are non-native species like Scotch Broom introduced from yard waste, dumping creates “dead zones” that become entry points for invasive species. Read more...