text: More change is coming this Spring to waste collection in Muskoka. Building on the District’s 2021 Waste Strategy aimed at reducing garbage and increasing diversion, residents will note changes both at the curb and at drop-off locations when Summer programs begin.
  Change has become necessary to Muskoka’s waste program to reduce garbage and extend the life of Muskoka’s one remaining landfill. At less than 40% waste diversion, the District is struggling to meet diversion goals as top municipalities in the province recycle, reduce and divert over 60% of their waste.
  Starting May 1, the following changes will occur:
  New contractor begins summer service
  Starting next week, GFL’s green trucks will begin to travel summer-only roads for the first time. To avoid missed collection, residents are reminded to place materials out by 7 a.m. and check all set-out requirements.
  Garbage bag limits
  Curbside garbage bag limits changed last Fall. A reminder that when weekly collection resumes on Monday, the no charge bag limit in the green bin area is one bag per week. In areas without green bin collection, two bags per week of garbage are permitted. For more information on how to reduce weekly garbage, please check our website. Bag tags for additional garbage can also be purchased at any transfer station.
  Bag limit relief
  Special programs have been approved to help residents adjust to reducing garbage. One clear bag of diapers / incontinence products can be dropped off weekly for no charge at all District waste facilities. One extra garbage bag (no bag tag required) is permitted at the curb on regular collection days the week of Victoria Day, Canada Day, the August Civic Holiday, and Labour Day.
  New hours at Georgian Bay depots
  Both the South Gibson Depot and Honey Harbour Depot will have new staffed hours of operation starting May 1. Investment in supervision of waste drop-off locations was recommended as part of the Waste Strategy to reduce illegal dumping and comply with environmental regulations, to protect our only landfill and keep waste costs sustainable.
  To stay updated and for more information on these changes, dates for leaf and yard waste collection, and the District’s other diversion programs, please visit www.muskokarecycles.ca and download the Muskoka Recycles App for free from Google Play or the App Store.