Town of Olds Announces Adjustments to Compost Services

March 18, 2024

For Immediate Release

Town of Olds Announces Adjustments to Compost Services

 

Olds, Alberta  –   In a move to enhance waste management services while managing costs, the Town of Olds announces the discontinuation of community grass bin services in 2024.  A decision was made to shift current costs to increasing and improving residential green bin services so residents would see a more direct benefit from dollars spent. 

 

Since January 1, 2024, waste collection frequency has increased to a bi-weekly cycle, residents now receive alternating blue and black bin pickups, with weekly residential green bin pick up from April 1 to November 1.  Residential green bins offer a robust, effective, and convenient way for households to manage compost and yard waste. 

 

The community grass bins had been increasingly used by individuals and businesses not contributing financially to their maintenance, impacting the financial sustainability of the bins and placing an unfair cost on residents and a burden on Town staff who deal with improper usage/dumping.  The green waste collected in the Town of Olds is used for agricultural purposes, so it must be protected from contamination. 

 

Adrian Pedro, Director of Infrastructure Services, emphasizes the practicality of this decision: "By reallocating resources to our residential green bin service, we're optimizing our waste management operations and providing direct benefits to our residents. Increased pickup frequency means less worry about yard waste and more focus on enjoying our community."

 

This shift also aligns with environmental conservation efforts, especially considering potential water restrictions and the need for sustainable yard waste management. The Town is committed to providing resources and information to help residents maintain healthier landscapes with less water usage.

 

"As we navigate these changes together, we are setting the stage for a more sustainable and vibrant Olds. I'm confident that by working collaboratively, transparently and embracing these enhancements, our town will remain a wonderful place to live, both now and in the future” said Mayor Judy Dahl.

 

For frequently asked questions and more information on the schedule of increased residential waste pickups please visit www.olds.ca/wastecollection.

 

 

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jillian Toellner

Supervisor – Communications & Engagement

Town of Olds

Communications@olds.ca

O: 403-507-4857

C: 403-415-6974