Composting For Free

Calgarians are encouraged to drop off leaf and yard waste accumulated from last fall and winter at City landfills for free so it can be composted instead of thrown away.

Until June 2, all three City landfills (Spyhill, East Calgary and Shepard) will waive fees for residential loads of leaves, branches, plants and other yard and garden material. The material will be composted at the sites, turning it back into a useful resource. "Yard waste makes up half of residential garbage during this time of year," said Corey Colbran, landfill operations team lead. "When it gets buried in the landfill, it can't be turned into soil or anything useful.

It takes decades to decompose while producing greenhouse gases. Composting takes this resource and turns it into a product that will help new plants to grow."

Residents are encouraged to leave their material loose or put it in paper yard waste bags, which can be composted as well. If loads are loose, residents should make sure they are secure before transporting them. The service is intended for local residents only and the City said charges might apply if loads contain other items. For more information visit www.calgary.ca/waste or call 311.

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