Illegal dumping site being cleaned up near Cache Creek (image credit - CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

ILLEGAL DUMPING

TNRD crews have already pulled 18 tonnes of garbage out of the back country this year

Apr 28, 2023 | 4:12 PM

KAMLOOPS — In an effort to formalize their approach to dealing with illegal dumping in the region, the Thompson Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for one company to take on the heavy lifting of cleaning up dump sites. The RFP, which closed Friday (April 29), had a number of contractors apply for the gig, with the successful applicant to be selected next week.

The TNRD estimates that each year, it removes approximately eight dump trucks full of illegally dumped waste from the back roads of the region.

“The average is about 14-to-16 tonnes a year, over approximately 30 cleanup events. This year, we are already at 18 tonnes, so the pace we are on right now, it could be a really big year for the program,” said TNRD Environmental Services Coordinator Martin Dickson.

Already this year, crews have been out cleaning up an increase of illegal dump sites like one near Cache Creek Friday morning that was riddled with beds, clothing, books, propane canisters and more.

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“Through the TNRD website, there is opportunity for area residents to learn about where they can put their waste materials — whether that be thrift stores, diversion programs with local merchants or even at TNRD disposal facilities,” added Dickson.

To help educate the public, new signs will be placed near the dump site, which was ironically less than 10 minutes away from the TNRD’s new waste reduction site at Boston Flats.

“Those things like propane tanks, major appliances, tires, scrap metal, yard waste, pesticides, paints, flammables — all of those in residential quantities are welcome here at no charge,” said Dickson.

While a new specialized crew will be working to keep the region clean, community groups can also help keep their neighbourhoods clean by volunteering their time.

“As a part of this program, we have a community cleanup program where we work with not-for-profits, community associations that are registered as societies. They have apply to the TNRD and if approved we will provide them with cleanup supplies, like garbage pickers, high visibility vests, bags and when they bring the materials to the TNRD facility, the fees will be waived,” stated Dickson.

Residents enjoying the backcountry around the TNRD who find an illegal dump site are asked to contact the Conservation Office RAPP line or the TNRD directly.