Fall cleaning is upon us
John Momot takes advantages of a sunny and mild Monday afternoon to rake leaves. Fall curbside leaf and yard waste collection starts Thursday and continues through Nov. 14 on regular recycling days for Thunder Bay residents.
Homeowners are encouraged to use Kraft bags (paper) for garden waste because these bags decompose naturally, the city said in a press release. Paper bags are placed directly into the compost and become compost too. Kraft bags are available at most hardware and grocery stores. Clear plastic and Halloween leaf bags are also acceptable. Bags must not weigh more than 40 lbs or 18 kg.
Branches and brush may also be left at the curb for collection. Branches must be bundled into less than one metre (39 inches) lengths and no more than 61 cm or (24 inches) in diameter using string or rope.
Leaf and yard waste put out at the curb is added to the compost pile at the City of Thunder Bay Solid Waste and Recycling Facility. The result is a rich soil additive for flower gardens and lawns. As a bonus, putting your 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.
There is no bag limit on leaf and yard waste. Place garden waste at the curb with recyclables on your regular recycling day, as indicated on your waste collection calendars. Look for the leaf symbol on your calendar. Grass clippings will not be accepted.
Questions about collection may be directed to Infrastructure & Operations at 625-2195.