DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard
KAWARTHA LAKES: The new Organics Collection Program, recently launched by the City, has already made a significant impact, diverting over 100 tonnes of food and organic waste from local landfills since its launch. Municipal officials are pleased with the growing participation but stress the need for all eligible households to get on board, before the grace period ends on May 1st.
“We’re really encouraged by the number of residents who have embraced the program so far,” said David Kerr, manager of environmental services. “Each week, we’re seeing more people sorting their waste properly, which is a huge win for our community and the environment.”
Local residents are adjusting to the program, with many appreciating the environmental benefits. “I was a bit hesitant at first, but now that I’ve gotten used to it, it’s really simple,” said Bobcaygeon resident Sarah Mitchell. “It feels good knowing my food scraps are being composted, instead of sitting in a landfill.” Lindsay’s Mark Davidson echoed the sentiment. “At first, I forgot to use the bin sometimes, but now it’s second nature. Plus, my garbage smells way less, now food scraps aren’t mixed in.”
Despite the positive response, there are still some households not participating. The city is urging all eligible residents in Bobcaygeon, Fenelon Falls, Omemee, and Lindsay to sort their food waste and use their provided bins. Mr. Kerr emphasized the importance of universal participation. “To meet and exceed our targets, and make the program as cost-effective as possible, we require all eligible households to participate,” he said. “This is a community effort, and the more people take part the greater the benefit for everyone.”
To help residents adjust, the city has been operating under a grace period, but enforcement will begin on May 1st, 2025. Under By-Law 2024-035, garbage bags containing more than 10 percent of food or organic waste will not be collected. Leading up to the deadline, collection staff will place ‘Oops Stickers’ on green bins which contain non-acceptable materials. A reminder letter will also be mailed out in March.
“Starting May 1st, if your garbage contains too much organic waste, it won’t be picked up,” explained Mr. Kerr. “We strongly encourage residents to start sorting now, to avoid any inconvenience.”
Participation in the Organics Collection Program is straightforward. Households have received a 7-litre kitchen catcher and a 45-litre rollout cart, to make sorting easy. Residents are encouraged to use 10-litre compostable bags in their kitchen catchers, to keep bins clean and transfer waste to the rollout cart for collection every Friday morning.
For those unsure about sorting waste, the Recycle Coach App provides an easy-to-use “What Goes Where?” tool. The app also sends reminders, about collection days and program updates. “We know change can be tough, but this program is a big step towards a greener future,” said Mr. Kerr. “With everyone’s participation, we can make a real difference.”
For more information, visit the Organics Program page, on the City of Kawartha Lakes website, or contact Customer Service, at 705-324-9411.
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