Christmas tree recycling and clean-up time in Kamloops

KAMLOOPS — Another Christmas has come and gone. What remains is the extra waste the holidays bring.

So, what’s the best way to clean up that Christmas clutter?

“It’s that time of year where the excess waste through the holidays and fewer collection days is a real challenge,” City of Kamloops Streets and Environmental Services Manager Glen Farrow explains. “We’re encouraging folks to use the depots and put the appropriate waste in the appropriate container at the curb. Our landfills are open each and every day throughout the holidays, as well.”

The city also has drop-off locations set up for Christmas tree recycling. It’s important to make sure your tree is clear of plastic, like tinsel, lights, or decorations before you drop it off.

“Some of the busier [sites] are Albert McGowan Park, McArthur Island, and then the main three yard waste sites: Bunker Road, Barnhartvale Landfill and Cinnamon Ridge,” Farrow says.

If you don’t want to mess up your vehicle and help out a good cause, you can always call Ed Lapierre – aka Ed the Security Guy – to come pick up your tree.

“We pick a couple of weekends after Christmas and we’ll travel around the city picking up Christmas trees,” Lapierre explains. “For a minimum $10 donation.”

For the last several years, the funds raised have gone to support a cause close to Ed’s heart.

“In the last five years we’ve raised over $1,000 each time,” Ed explains. “Last year we raised just over $4,000 for Kamloops Hospice.”

This year, pick-up dates are Jan. 2, 8, and 9. To arrange for a pickup you can either call or email to provide the pick-up information.

“So if they call me the Friday before they want it picked up, anytime up to [that Friday] at (250)851-1131 or email securityguy@telus.net, and we’ll pick up your tree.”