Strathcona County 2012 Waste Collection Calendar

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Calendar contentsMayor's message ...................................................2Rural Strathcona County area map .................2 Sherwood Park and rural hamlet map ............3 List of common items for disposal ...................4Collection day reminders ...................................5Services at a glance ..............................................5Putting your cart out ...........................................6Street maintenance ..............................................6Large item pickup .................................................7Recycling stations .................................................8Enviroservice events ............................................9Treecycle ................................................................10

Missed collection ..................................................12Your sump pump ..................................................14Your recycling collector ......................................16Extra yard waste collection ...............................18Summer guide for organics ................................20Grasscycling ...........................................................22Water deep an hour a week .............................24Organics and the landfill .....................................26Be nice to your pipes ..........................................28Winter guide for collection ...............................30Green Christmas ..................................................32Clean green ...........................................................34

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12 Strathcona County

Waste collection calendar

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Collection mapsRural Strathcona CountyIf you are a rural area resident and want to receive weekly collection from Strathcona County, call Utilities at 780-449-5514 to set up an account.

We’ve had another green year Strathcona County! We still have one of the top waste diversion rates in the region thanks to your efforts. Before the Green Routine started we had a diversion rate of about 30 to 35 per cent. Now, just three short years later, we are diverting 67 per cent! In 2010 alone we diverted over 18,700 tonnes of waste from going to the landfill saving 57,750 cubic yards of landfill space. That is enough waste to fill 4,813 dump truck loads! It is very important that we continue to work together as a community so that we can achieve even greater success.

The 2012 waste calendar is being sent to all County residents. It contains information specifically about weekly waste collection services but also community-wide recycling services, tips on cleaning "green," watering lawns and gardens and more!

Keep up your great efforts!

Linda Osinchuk, MAYOR

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Collection mapsRural hamlets and Sherwood Park

South Cooking Lake Rd

Twp Rd 514

Monday

Tuesday

Thursday Friday

Tuesday

Streambank AvenueRecycling Station

Baseline RoadRecycling Station

Clove

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RoaddraveluoB roo

mdaorB

Wye Road Wye Road

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12 yawhgiH

Sherwood Drive

Granada Boulevard

StreambankAvenue draveluoB roo

mdaorB

Friday

Thursday

WednesdayTuesday

MondayStrathcona Village Charlton

Heights

CloverbarRanch

Jubilee Landing

Lakeland Village

Davidson Creek

Clarkdale Meadows

LakelandRidge

ChelseaHeights

AspenTrails Summerwood

Heritage Hills

Craigavon

HeritageHighlands

Foxhaven

Foxboro

TheRidge

RegencyPark Regency

Park Estates

Nottingham

Maplewood

Brentwood

Glen AllanGlen Allan

Sherwood Heights

Mills Haven

BroadmoorVillage

WoodbridgeFarms

Westboro

Village on the Lake

The Estates ofSherwoodPark

Broadmoor Estates

ForrestGreens

Emerald Hills

LakelandRidge

Clove

r Bar

Road

Baseline Road

evirDdoowrehS

Lakeland Drive

Balmoral Heights

Fountain Creek Estates

Rge R

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Sherwood Park Golf & Country Club EstatesWeekly organics collection

Only residents living in the areas listed on this page receive weekly organics collection mid-June to mid-September.

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Organics (green cart)•All food products (including bones, meat, shells, oily foods, dairy) • ashes (cooled)• cardboard (soiled)• cat litter (not bagged)• cooking oil (cooled)• coffee filters and grounds• cotton balls (without nail polish remover or other cleaners)• dryer lint• facial tissue• feathers• floor sweepings• freezer paper• grass clippings• grease (cooled)• hair• leaves• paper products (soiled)• paper plates, napkins• parchment paper• pet waste (not bagged)• pet wood shavings• pizza boxes (soiled)• plant containers, paper• plant materials• popcorn bags• popsicle sticks• sawdust and wood chips• shredded paper (small amount)• soap, bar• toothpicks• twigs (small pieces)• wax paper (soiled)• weeds• wine cork (wood)

Paper recycling (reusable bag or container)• box board (cereal, cracker boxes)• cardboard, flattened, max. size 1 m x 30 cm (can be cut down and placed underneath the bag or container)• catalogues • cereal and other food boxes• coffee cups (rinsed)• computer paper• detergent boxes (emptied)• envelopes (with/without plastic window)• glossy paper• greeting cards• ice cream cartons (rinsed) • laundry detergent boxes(emptied)• magazines• milk cartons (rinsed & flattened (or take to bottle depot))• newspaper• paper napkins, plates, cups (clean)• paper products• phone books• photos• wrapping paper (no foil)

Container recycling (clear blue plastic bag)• aluminium cans & containers beverage, soup, vegetable, pie plates, take-out containers (rinsed)• baby bottle liners (rinsed)• cereal plastic liner• cheese wrapper (clean)• glass jars and bottles (rinsed)• ice cream pails (rinsed)

• milk jugs, plastic (rinsed) (or take to bottle depot)• plastics #1 to #7 grade (rinsed)• plastic bags, bottles and containers yogurt, margarine etc. (rinsed)• plastic film or wrap (rinsed) (with or without label)• plastic utensils (rinsed)• pop bottles (or take to bottle depot)• Re-sealable or Ziploc bags (rinsed) • Styrofoam products (rinsed)• tetra-paks• wine cork (plastic)

Waste (black cart)• air fresheners• air filters• aluminium foil• bakeware (cookie sheets, muffin tins)• bows and ribbons• bricks (small amounts)• broken glass (wrapped in paper)• candles• carpet (must fit inside cart)• ceramics and dishes• cigarettes• cleaning wipes• clothing (not reusable)• contact lenses• contraceptive products• cosmetic containers• cotton balls (soiled)• crayons• dental floss• disposable diapers and wipes• dryer sheets • drywall (must fit inside cart) • elastic bands

• fairy ring (from lawn)• feminine hygiene items• flour bags (or any bag that has a lining)• foil wrappers• foam (mattresses, pillows) • frozen juice cans• furnace filters• granola bar wrappers• latex products• leather• incandescent light bulbs• make-up remover pads• magnets• matchbooks• meat tray liners• medical waste (or take to a pharmacy for disposal)• metal rods, coat hangers, etc.• nails, screws, nuts, bolts, etc.• non-recyclable materials (without a recycle symbol)• ointment tubes• paint cans (emptied or dried)• paper clips• pens and pencils• pet food bags• potato chip bags or containers• Q-tips• saran/plastic food wrap (soiled)• sand paper• sharps (razor blades, broken glass wrapped in paper)• toilet, tank/bowl (put out in cart on alternating weeks)• toothbrush & toothpaste tubes• toys, broken• vacuum bags

More items are listed on the A-Z list on our website

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Collection day reminders• All items for collection must be out before 7:30 a.m. on your

collection day. Specific collection times are not scheduled during the day and the time your items are collected may change from week to week. It is important to have your items out before 7:30 a.m. so they don’t get missed.

• Collection occurs between 7:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. Recycling and carts may be picked up by separate trucks. If your item(s) were missed, please call 780-449-5514 before 10 a.m. the next business day. Leave the items at curbside.

• All items must fit inside carts with the lid closed. Materials left outside the cart will not be collected. Cart and contents must weigh less than 90 kg (200 lb).

• If you live in rural Strathcona County, make sure your house number is clearly visible from the road. Make sure your cart is visible and accessible from the road.

• If you have approved back alley collection, make sure your waste or organics cart and your recycling are placed out in the back alley correctly. Special collection (large items and extra yard waste) are picked up at the front of the property. Not sure if you have approved back alley collection? Call Utilities at 780-449-5514 for more information.

Your cart requires 1 m (3 ft) on all sides so the collection truck can access and lift it. Leave at

least one metre between your cart, recycling, other carts, fences, mailboxes, basketball nets, overhanging tree limbs, parked cars and any other objects. Remember to make sure there is at least 3 m (10 ft) of clearance above the cart so the truck can lift it safely.

Services at a glanceWhat to put in it How much can you put

out for collection

Green cart OrganicsAll food products, grass clippings, soiled paper

All organics must fit inside the cart with the lid closed. No plastic or biodegradable bags.

Black cart WasteTinfoil, chip bags, granola bar wrappers

All waste must fit inside the cart with the lid closed.

Clear blue plastic bag

Container recyclingGlass, metal, plastic, StyrofoamClean and dry

Unlimited quantity. Rinsed items must be placed in clear blue plastic bags. No construction materials.

Reusable bag or container

Paper recyclingNewspaper, cardboard, mixed paper

Unlimited quantity. Must be in reusable bag or container with handles. Maximum weight is 25 kg (50 lb).

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Putting your cart out during street maintenance

When winter street snow clearing or spring street sweeping is occurring in your neighbourhood, you need to change where you place your cart on collection day. Watch for signs posted in your neighbourhood.

Please place your organics or waste cart no further than 30 cm (1 ft) from the end of your driveway. During snow clearing and street sweeping, carts cannot be on the road, sidewalk or in the gutter because vehicles cannot manoeuvre around them.

On all other collection days, it’s back to normal.

Watch for signs posted in your

neighbourhood

If you have a boulevard, make sure you put your cart in between the sidewalk and the road.

If you have a sidewalk, make sure you put your cart at the edge of the sidewalk and your driveway.

Boulevards

sidewalks&

Putting your cart out for collection

If you have a curb1. Place the wheels of the cart in the gutter between the

curb and the road.2. Your cart will be on the road. Arrows on the carts

indicate what side of the cart must face the road.

If you do not have a curb 1. Place the cart out at the edge of your driveway and

the road. Ensure that the cart is stable on a flat area and the wheels are closest to the ditch or your driveway.

2. Arrows on the carts indicate what side of the cart must face the road.

Rural customersOnce the snow has fallen and is here to stay, please place your cart on your driveway and not on the road. Place your cart no further than 30 cm (1 ft) from the end of your driveway. Carts cannot be on the road because snow removal vehicles cannot manoeuvre around them.

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Large item pickupDo you have large or heavy items that are no longer usable? During Large item pickup weeks, leave up

to two household items at the front curb on your regular collection day and we will haul them away for you. Check the calendar for your pickup date. There is a limit of two items per household.

This service is available for Strathcona County waste collection customers only.

All items must be less than 1.8 m x 0.9 m (6 ft x 3 ft) and weigh less than 90 kg (200 lb). Please remove doors, lids and contents from fridges and freezers, and make sure the coolant system is not damaged. Items with fuel or oil tanks (barbecues, lawn mowers etc.) must have all liquids removed. Fuel and used oil can be taken to an Enviroservice event (see page 9 for details). Please make sure there

is nothing left inside the large item. Put a sign on smaller items (lawn mowers, wheel barrows etc.) to help identify it as being out for Large item pickup.

Examples of acceptable items• barbecue (no tanks or briquettes)• basketball net (please put a sign on it to let collector know it is for pickup)• dishwasher• freezer (emptied, doors removed)• fridge (emptied, doors removed)• furnace• furniture• hot water tank• lawn furniture • lawn mower (all fluid drained)• luggage• mattress and box spring• rain barrel• sink• snowblower (all fluids drained, fuel tank removed)• stove• toilet• washer and dryer• wheel barrow (broken)

• assembled swing set• barbecue propane tank• car parts*• computer (monitor, tower, key board, speaker, mouse)• desktop printer• microwave• pressurized tank (over 20 lb)• snowmobile*• stereo• television• items longer than 1.8 metres (six feet) in length*• items weighing more than 90 kg (200 lb)*

*A fee may apply to drop off these items at an Enviroservice event (see page 9 for details).

Various electronics can be taken to an Enviroservice event for recycling.

Please note: Houses with back alleys must have large items put out at the front of your property for collection.

Remember during large item weeks to keep items that are not to be collected (eg. basketball nets, bikes, wheel barrows etc.) away from the end of

your driveway so they are not accidentally picked up.

Items not acceptable

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Recycling stationsThere are five recycling station locations in Strathcona County. Please do not dump unaccepted items at the recycling stations. The Ardrossan Boyscouts help to keep some of the stations clean – keep them safe.• Baseline Road Recycling Station, 624 Bethel Drive, Sherwood Park

• Ardrossan Recycling Station, Ardrossan Recreation Complex

• Josephburg Recycling Station, Moyer Recreation Complex

• South Cooking Lake Recycling Station, South Cooking Lake

Fire Hall

• Streambank Avenue Recycling Station (brush yard), 420 Streambank Avenue, Sherwood Park

All locations, other than at Streambank Avenue, will accept all the recyclable materials collected at curbside. Items must be separated into the correct bins. Some items include:• corrugated cardboard (flattened, clean, dry and unsoiled)• glass jars (food and beverage glass containers, lids removed)• metal cans (aluminium cans and containers)• mixed paper (inserts, flyers, cereal boxes, computer paper, etc.)• newspaper • plastic containers and Styrofoam• passenger tires, rims removed (accepted at the Baseline

location only)Visit www.strathcona.ca/utilities for a full list of accepted items.

Streambank Avenue Recycling Station is the only location that collects grass clippings, leaves and yard waste. Sod and tree stumps are not accepted at Streambank Avenue and must be taken to a landfill.

Help keep recyclable items out of the landfill by following these tips:• never leave hazardous waste at the recycling station. These

items can be taken to any of the Enviroservice events for proper disposal (see page 9 for more details).

• make sure you place only the correct items in the correct bin for recycling. When items go in the incorrect bins it costs more to process the recyclables and some of the items may end up in the landfill.

• large items are not accepted at recycling stations. You can take large items to an Enviroservice event or a landfill for proper disposal (a fee may apply). Strathcona County customers can put up to two large items out twice a year during Large item pickup. See page 7 for more details.

Landfillandtransferstations(call for hours and locations)Edmonton Waste Management Centre, 780-442-5311Fort Saskatchewan Transfer Station, 780-992-6152Lindbrook Transfer Station, 780-662-2704

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draveluoB roomdaorB

Streambank Ave.

Petroleum Way

N

Lakeland Dr.

Enviroservice events Enviroservice events are your

opportunity to drop off household hazardous waste, electronics and appliances for proper disposal or recycling. Items are not collected at curb side. These events are available to all Strathcona County residents.

Disposal of household hazardous materials Many paints, cleaners, automobile care products, solvents, pesticides, herbicides, stains and varnishes contain toxic or hazardous components. Once exposed to the environment, these substances may threaten living organisms. Small quantities accumulate over time and contaminate the air, water and soil. Products that are flammable, corrosive, explosive or toxic should not be disposed of in landfills or sewage systems.

Enviroservice events are held every two weeks from May to October. Thursday events are held 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday events are held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Event days are listed in the calendar.

The event takes place at Streambank Avenue Recycling Station, 420 Streambank

Avenue, Sherwood Park. Please obey all signs. Items are accepted only during event hours; please do not drop items off early.

abrasive cleanersacetoneaerosol spraysalkaline batteries (non-rechargeable)all-purpose cleanersantifreezeappliances (fridges, stoves, dishwashers, freezers, washer/dryers)barbecue propane tanks (20 lb or under)bleachbutanecar batteriescell phones computers (monitors, keyboards, hard drives, accessories)disinfectantsdrain cleanerfabric softenersfire extinguishers fluorescent tubesfurnacehot water tanksinsecticideskerosene

metalmicrowavesoiloven cleaners paint thinners/stripperspaints (oil/water based)pesticidesrubbing alcoholrechargeable batteriessmall appliancessolvents, turpentine, varnish, lacquersstereos, speakerstelevisionswood preservatives

Items not acceptedcommercial hazardous wastecommercial bio-wasteexpired medicationexplosivesradioactive wastemunitions (bullets etc.) fireworkspressurized gases (over 20 lb)

These items can also be taken to the Eco Stations at 5150–99 Street, Edmonton or 14710 Ellerslie Road SW Edmonton.• Electronics can also be taken to Staples

Business Depot 350, 390 Baseline Road, Sherwood Park.

• CFL lightbulbs are accepted at most hardware stores.

• Oil is accepted at Sherwood Park Bottle Depot & Used Oil Recycling Centre

Items accepted

Tips to avoid long linesWait for a couple of hours instead of lining up at the event start time. July and August events are also less busy. 9

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Treecycle!Christmas trees are more than just a pretty face! Trees that are collected will be shredded into woodchips and then added to the organic material collected in the green carts to make compost. The woodchips add air pockets in the compost that make organic materials break down quicker.

When putting your tree out for collection, please remember to:• cut your tree into four-foot sections• remove all decorations, tinsel and lights• take the tree out of the tree stand• remove any plastic bags used to transport the tree• have your tree out for collection by 7:30 a.m. on

your collection day

If you don’t receive waste collection services from Strathcona County, you can take your tree to the Streambank Avenue Recycling Station or Edmonton's Waste Management Centre free of charge, and it will be chipped and recycled.

Re duceusecycle your new year's

Mak

e

solution

S M T W T F S

11Questions? www.strathcona.ca/utilities 780-449-5514

2012

January

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Organics, waste and recycling collection for all waste collection customers. Make sure carts are at least 1 m (3 ft) apart.

Organics and recycling collection

Waste and recycling collection

Christmas tree collection - cut into four-foot sections.

New Year’s Day

Out by 7:30 a.m.

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Windy days On windy collection days, put your paper recycling in a reusable container with a lid. Place a piece of box board, such as a cereal box, on the top. You can also place your container recycling (clear blue bag) on top of your paper recycling to help prevent paper from escaping. Or hang on to your recycling and put it out the following week.

Remember to leave at least 1 m (3 ft) of space between your carts.

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Missed collectionMissed collections are upsetting, but there is usually a reason that the materials were not collected as expected.

Waste collectors use “oops” stickers to let residents know why the materials were not collected and to help make sure they are collected the next time. Some reasons include:• unacceptable materials were found in the waste or organics cart,

blue bag or reusable container • the incorrect cart was placed out for collection • cart was too close to another object or cart and the truck

couldn’t access or reach it – cart must be at least 1 m (3 ft) away from all other objects

• recyclables were not packaged properly • the lid of the cart did not close properly due to overfilling • cart and contents were too heavy (must weigh less than

90 kg or 200 lb)

Make sure you sort your items correctly and help reduce contamination.

Remember to have your waste out by 7:30 a.m. Collection occurs between 7:30 a.m and 9 p.m. Materials may be picked up at different times each week. If your item(s) were sorted and packaged properly and got missed, please call 780-449-5514 before 10 a.m. the next business day. Leave the items at curbside.

Sometimes inclement weather or mechanical troubles can slow down collection. Updates will be posted on our website and through our Twitter account www.twitter.com/strathcocounty or @StrathcoCounty.

Thank you for your patience, we will be working hard to stay on schedule!

S M T W T F S


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26Family Day

Collection still occurs today

Does your cart need repair? Utilities will repair any cart that breaks or cracks through normal use. Carts that are damaged by improper use or abuse will be subject to a replacement and service fee. Call Utilities for information.

FebruaryOrganics and recycling collection


Want more eco-tips? Sign up for our eNewsletter, Green Living. Visit the website to subscribe.

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Out by 7:30 a.m.

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Your sump pumpA sump pump is an important part of your home’s foundation

drainage system that helps to protect your house from

flooding during rain or snow melt. The sump pump is usually

located in the basement of your home in a utility room or

laundry space. As a homeowner, you are responsible for the

drainage system on your property.

Your sump pump pipe should discharge water at least 1.5

metres (five feet) from the foundation wall. If your sump pump

discharges on the ground, place a splash pad below where the

sump pump discharge pipe comes through the foundation wall

(connecting discharge pipes or hoses are not recommended).

This will reduce erosion and soggy areas by your home.

It is important to perform regular maintenance checks on

your sump pump system, every spring as well as every couple

of months. This can help prevent backups and flooding from

occurring.

Visit the website for maintenance and seasonal tips

www.strathcona.ca/utilities

S M T W T F S


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Keep it light and fluffy!Avoid packing down contents in your cart. Materials may become stuck in the cart and the truck may not be able to fully empty it. Layering your cart every 30 cm (12")will also reduce materials from becoming stuck. If items are stuck, it is up to you to loosen and put it out for next pickup date.

MarchOrganics and recycling collection


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Sewer troubles? Call 780-467-7785. An operator will call you back within one hour any time of the day or night.

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Out by 7:30 a.m.

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Your recycling collectorMeet Nick. Nick is one of our recycling collectors in Strathcona County and he talks about two of the biggest concerns with recycling. Remember, these operators collect from thousands of households every week. Help keep Nick safe by doing your part!

Why is it important to have your recycling in a clear blue bag?It makes it a whole lot easier to see the recycling from the inside of the truck. This helps make sure your recycling gets picked up and not accidentally missed.

Also make sure your paper recycling isn't too heavy. A large container full of magazines and newspaper is heavy to lift. Having to lift this over and over puts a lot of strain on us. I've just about put my back out a couple times.

Why does cardboard have to be cut down to 1 m x 30 cm (3 ft x 1 ft)? We have special two-stream trucks in the County so we can collect paper and container recyclables at the same time. Because of this, our hopper (the area inside the truck where the recycling is placed) is smaller than a regular recycling truck. When cardboard is too big, it jams up the hopper. This adds to how long it takes to collect recycling. Though it only seems like a short time to remove it, multiply that by 800 homes and it adds a lot of time to your day.

Want to see more tips from Nick? Check out the video on our website.

S M T W T F S


2012

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Earth Day

Easter Sunday



AprilOrganics and recycling collection


Special eventsEarth Day - celebrate our planet!

Pitch-In April 23 - May 6

The County's annual composter and rain barrel pre-sale is on May 5. Watch our website and local paper for details.

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Out by 7:30 a.m.

Windy days On windy collection days, put your paper recycling in a reusable container with a lid. Place a piece of box board, such as a cereal box, on the top. You can also place your container recycling (clear blue bag) on top of your paper recycling to help prevent paper from escaping. Or hang on to your recycling and put it out the following week.

Pitch-In Canada is April 23 to May 6. Help clean up your neighbourhood!

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Extra yard waste collectionIt's time to get your yard into shape after winter! To accommodate the extra volume yard waste from spring and fall cleanup, you can put out the extra yard waste in clear bags for collection during designated weeks.

During these weeks only, extra yard waste that does not fit inside your green organics cart must be placed in clear bags and put out on your regular collection day. There is no limit to the amount of clear bags you can put out. All tree branches must be under one inch in diameter. Branches up to one metre in length can be bundled and placed out for collection. Bundles can weigh no more than 25 kg (55 lb). Make sure your clear bags and tree bundles are at the end of your driveway or property.

Some organic items take a lot longer to break down and need to be sent to a wood chipper or other facility to be broken down further. Tree branches over one inch in diameter can be taken to Streambank Avenue Recycling Centre located at 420 Streambank Avenue in Sherwood Park.

Tree stumps and roots are too large to be chipped and are not accepted at Streambank Avenue Recycling Centre. These items can be taken to a landfill (charges may apply).

This service is available for Strathcona County waste collection customers only.

S M T W T F S


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Victoria Day


Get your compost! In the spring and fall, local non-profit groups will be selling compost for a fundraiser. Watch the local newspaper or our website for details.

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

MayOrganics and recycling collection


Extra yard waste collection. Make sure it is in clear plastic bags.

Large item pickupmaximum two items See page 7

Enviroservice eventSee page 9 for details

Lawn bustersBe a great neighbour and help a senior with lawn care! Lawn Busters matches eligible seniors with volunteers to assist with lawn mowing. Volunteer by calling 780-464-4044.

Out by 7:30 a.m.

Rain barrel and composter pre-sale. Watch local paper for details.

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Summer guide to using your green organics cart• Layering is key! To reduce the chance of materials sticking to

the bottom and sides of the cart, every 30 cm (12") layer wet organics (kitchen scraps, grass clippings) with dry organics (crumpled up newspapers or cardboard). It will also help reduce odours. Another option is to use compostable bags.

• Avoid packing contents of the cart down. Organic materials may become stuck in the cart and the truck may not be able to fully empty it. If materials become stuck, use a broom handle or shovel to loosen the materials. It is up to you to loosen materials and put out for your next pickup day.

• Keep smelly organics in the freezer until your organics collection day. Wrap meat, bones and fish in newspaper to help reduce odours and pests.

• Store the organics cart in a shaded or covered area.• Sprinkle a small amount of vinegar, powdered garden lime,

baking soda or powdered laundry detergent (without bleach) at the bottom of the organics cart.

Controlling pestsTaking steps to control pests is best. Spreading detergent or vinegar around the lip of the cart may control insects. Visit our website for tips to help reduce and remove pests found with organic waste.

Weekly organics cart collection starts for certain areas on June 18. See page 3 for details.

S M T W T F S


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Remember to leave 1 m (3 ft) of space around your cart (including between the waste and organic carts on double-cart collection weeks).

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

JuneOrganics and recycling collection


Large item pickupmaximum two items See page 7

Enviroservice event See page 9 for details

Extra yard waste collection Make sure it is in clear bags

Weekly organics cart collection for designated areas (see map on page 3 for areas)

World Environment Day

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Out by 7:30 a.m.


Weekly organics cart collection begins for designated areas. See page 3.

Canadian Environment Week is June 3 to 9.

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Did you knowGrasscycling helps keep moisture in the soil so you

don’t have to water your

lawn as often. Grasscycling is a natural

fertilizer for your lawn. Clippings release valuable

nutrients such as nitrogen,

potassium and phosphorus

into the ground when they

decompose.

Keep the blades on your mower sharp. This will give your grass a nice clean cut.

1Mow your lawn higher. Keep the grass blade length about 6 cm. This encourages the roots to grow deep, giving a healthier, hardier lawn.

23Mow often, about every four or five days. It will keep the

clippings small so they can fall between the blades of grass and decompose quickly. If you have been unable to mow for a while, collect the clippings and put them in your organics cart or bring them to Streambank Avenue Recycling Station.

45Mow when your grass is dry. Dry clippings are dispersed better and there is less chance of clogging the mower.

Any mower will do. If your mower does not haveasafetyflapoverthechute,makesureyoupurchasearetrofitkit.

Grasscycling is an alternative to raking and collecting grass and leaves. Save time and money!

S M T W T F S


2012

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Canada Day

Going on holidays? Ask a neighbour to put your cart and recycling out for you.

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

JulyOrganics and recycling collection



Weekly organics cart collection for designated areas. (see map on page 3 for areas)

Special eventsCanada Day– celebrate at Broadmoor Lake Park

Not sure if you are in a weekly organics cart collection area? Check out the map on page 3.

Out by 7:30 a.m.

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Follow these guidelines to even out the demand on our water system during daily peak periods. Hot temperatures and a lack of rainfall contribute exponentially to the demand for limited water resources.

Watering one hour a week is all your lawn needsA good heavy watering once a week helps produce a deeper root system which is less likely to be damaged by drought. And remember if it has rained, you may not need to water!

Water your lawn early in the morning - before 7 a.m. is best - or after 7 p.m.

Avoid itAvoid using water during peak demand periods (from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. ) and during the day when too much water is lost to evaporation.

If you have an underground irrigation system, it is important that it does not come on when it is raining. One way to make sure is to consider installing a rain sensor. Visit a home garden centre for details.

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Heritage Day


Hold off on cleaningWait until just before your organics collection day to clean out your refrigerator or freezer.

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

AugustOrganics and recycling collection



Weekly organics cart collection for certain areas. (see map on page 3 for areas)

Layer Layer Layer! Place a layer of crumpled up newspaper, cardboard or other dry organic materials in your cart. Then every 30 cm (12") alternate with wet organics. Avoid packing the organics down as they may become stuck. See page 20 for more.

Out by 7:30 a.m.

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Cha-ching! It costs 30 per cent more per tonne to send material to the landfill instead of the composter.

Space invader! Organic materials take up space in the landfill.

Breakin' it down! Organics don't break down in a landfill as they normally should. Materials in a landfill get tightly packed in where they have little exposure to air, moisture and decomposing microorganisms. These elements are needed to break down organic material into valuable compost.

Transformed and ready to work! The compost made from the organics is used in the parks, community gardens and for fundraising initiatives.

Organics can't we just put them in the landfill?Organics break down right? So you may be asking, why can't we just put them in the landfill? Here are a couple reasons why we want to keep organics out of the landfill.

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Questions? www.strathcona.ca/utilities 780-449-5514

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Labour Day


4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

SeptemberOrganics and recycling collection



Weekly organics cart collection for certain areas. (see map on page 3 for areas)

Large item pickup Maximum two items See page 7

Rural Enviroservice event. Watch our website or the local newspaper for details. Please note: appliances, waste and metal are not accepted at the rural event.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Leaves can cause build-up in your cart. They soak up the moisture in the cart and can cause the contents to become stuck. To help prevent this, every 30 cm (12") layer your wet organics (food, leaves, grass, etc.) with dry organics (crumpled newspaper, pizza boxes, etc.).

Out by 7:30 a.m.

9 a.m. to12 noon

Last week for weekly organics cart collection

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Be smart and selective when pouring or flushing things down the drain.

Wipe itBefore you wash your dishes, don’t forget to pour

grease, fat and cooking oils into a container or wipe them out. If they are continually poured down the drain, it will lead to build up. Pouring hot water down the drain does not reduce build up. This build up will increase the risk of a sewer back up. Cooled grease, fat and cooking oils can be placed in your green organics cart.

Flush it?Large or absorbent items (feminine hygiene products, paper towels, baby wipes, clothing, nylons etc.) should not be flushed down the toilet or drain because they can get stuck in the pipe and increase the risk of sewer backups. They can also increase the frequency of repairs which can increase sewer fees.

Medical waste, including needles, should be wrapped in newspaper and placed in your black waste cart or taken to a pharmacy for disposal. When flushed down the drain, these items pose a safety hazard to staff who work on our sewer system.


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Questions? www.strathcona.ca/utilities 780-449-5514

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Thanksgiving


OctoberOrganics and recycling collection


Extra yard waste collection. Make sure it is in clear bags.

Enviroservice event Last one until Spring 2013. See page 9 for details.

Plan to be eeeko-friendly this Halloween!

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Last one for 2012!

Out by 7:30 a.m.

Waste Reduction Week is October 14 to 20 – put your waste on a diet!

Try making waste-free lunches. Use reusable containers and cloth lunch bags or take a reusable water bottle instead of a juice box.

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Winter collection tipsWe know that the weather in Alberta can change drastically – sometimes overnight! Here are some tips to keep in mind once the temperature drops.

Give your organics cart a winter lining. Line the bottom and sides of your organics cart with newspaper. Then every 30 cm (12") make sure to layer wet organics (food waste, leaves) with dry organics (crumpled newspaper, pizza boxes). This will reduce the possibility of organics freezing to the cart when the temperature drops. Layering is even more important during the time of year when temperatures fluctuate frequently.

Keepitfluffy. Avoid packing contents of the cart down. Organic materials may become stuck in the cart and the truck may not be able to fully empty it.

Wrap it up! Wrap wet or smelly organics in soiled boxes (cereal or cracker box), paper bags or newspaper to help prevent them from freezing to the cart.

Pull, don’t push. When there is snow on the ground, pull your organics or waste cart – don’t push. The bottom of the cart will cause snow to build up making it difficult to move. By pulling, snow build up does not occur.

Be friendly. Get to know your neighbours. If they need help getting their cart to the curb, ask if you can do it for them.

Take it off-road. Only when snow clearing is occurring in your neighbourhood, make sure to place your cart on your driveway and not on the road. See page 6 for placement information.

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Remembrance Day

NovemberOrganics and recycling collection


Extra yard waste collection. Make sure it is in clear bags.

Want more eco-tips? Sign up for our eNewsletter, Green Living. Visit our website to subscribe.

Out by 7:30 a.m.

Watch for it! Your 2013 waste collection schedule is coming with your utility bill next month. See the back cover for more details.

Does your cart need repair? Utilities will repair any cart that breaks or cracks through normal use. Carts that are damaged by improper use or abuse will be subject to a replacement and service fee.

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Use decorative reusable bags, boxes, tins or tea towels to wrap your gifts. It is like giving two gifts in one!

A real tree can be an environmental choice this Christmas. Christmas trees are considered a renewable resource. Many of the materials used to make an artificial tree are not. When Christmas is over, put your real tree out for collection. These trees will be shredded into woodchips and then added to the organic material collected in the green carts to make compost.

Use potted trees or plants for topiaries for festive decorating. Visit your favourite local garden centre to see if they offer Christmas design courses.

Green Christmas Christmas is a time of celebration and tradition. Here are some ways to incorporate some eco-choices into your holiday decorating and new holiday traditions.

Recycle old greeting cards by cutting out images to make gift tags. Avoid foil or metallic gift wrap, it can't be recycled.

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Christmas break, no collection this weekBoxing Day

Christmas DayX

Cardboard too big? Larger pieces of cardboard that can’t be cut down to 30 cm x 1 m (1 ft x 3 ft) can be taken to a recycling station.

X X X X

DecemberOrganics and recycling collection


No collection this week. Both waste and organics carts will be collected December 31 to January 4 for all waste collection customers.

* Tuesday, January 1 collection will occur on Wednesday, January 2.

X

Out by 7:30 a.m.


Watch for it! Your 2013 waste collection calendar will be coming with your utility bill this month. See back cover for details.

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Clean greenTry out some simple and effective alternatives for potentially harmful cleaning chemicals.

All-purpose spray cleaner2 mL vegetable oil-based soap2 mL washing soda5 mL borax25 mL vinegar or lemon juice500 mL hot waterCombine ingredients in a spray bottle and shake until well mixed. Spray, wipe clean and rinse as you would with any spray cleaner.

Drain cleaner60 mL baking soda125 mL vinegarPour soda, then vinegar and close drain until fizzing stops. Flush with boiling water.

Oven cleanerAbsorb fresh spills by sprinkling with table salt while still warm. When cool, brush and wipe off. Soften baked-on spills with borax and lemon juice paste.

Tub and tile cleanerUse baking soda for routine cleaning; a borax and lemon juice paste for tough soap scum.

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JanuaryOrganics and recycling collection


Organics, waste and recycling collection for all waste collection customers. Make sure carts are at least one metre apart.

Christmas tree collection - cut into four-foot sections. See page 10 for details.

Collection will occur on Wednesday, January 2 X

Out by 7:30 a.m.

Your 2013 waste collection calendar was delivered with your utility bill in December. See back cover for details.

Remember to leave at least 1 m (3 ft) of space between your carts.

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Take note!Black waste cart serial # ________________________ Green organics cart serial # _____________________ (the serial number is located by the bar code on the front of the cart)

© Municipal Media Inc. www.custombuiltcalendars.com

Contact usWaste and recycling 780-449-5514Water and wastewater emergencies (24-hour phone line) 780-467-7785

Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/strathcocountyFind us on Facebook www.facebook.com/strathcona.countyCheck out our videos on YouTube www.youtube.com/strathconacounty

2013 calendarThe February and March 2013 calendar will be delivered with your December 2012 utility bill. The full 2013 calendar will be delivered to households in March 2013.

Why the change? Sending out the calendar in March allows us to incorporate any changes that may come from the budget process in December. We also miss getting mixed in with all the extra holiday mail in December.

Environmental factsper paper type

Outside coated paper

Post-consumer-waste content

25%

Total recycled content 50%

Environmental certifications 2

Inside uncoated paper

Post-consumer-waste content

100%

Total recycled content 100%

New trees cut 0

Environmental certifications 2

Strathcona County 2012 Waste Collection Calendar

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