Debris Collection
SOIL AND SILT
There have been questions about the safety of the soil and silt left by the flood. We are pleased to say that all soil samples came back clean, showing no worrying levels of contaminates, and therefore present no significant risk to human health or the environment.
From now until May 23rd residents can collect flood sediment from their yards and place it curbside for removal. The soil must be clean and free from all household and demolition waste-contaminated soil will not be collected. Please leave it loose on the curbside, not packaged in bags.
The curbside pick-up of household debris will also continue until May 23rd, and free tipping fees at the local landfill will continue until May 31st. After that time, residents will be responsible for all soil and debris removal from their homes, as well as any charges at the landfill.
A friendly reminder to please refrain from flushing silt and soil down toilets, drains, and other city infrastructure, as this places too much strain on our waste management system.
CLEANUP
Before you start your cleanup activities, call your insurance representative or company, the Province’s Disaster Financial Assistance program, and any other organization that might be providing financial assistance to find out what records of damage you need to collect in order to file your claims. You may need to take photographs or document the location of damaged goods prior to clean up.
The Thompson-Nicola Regional District is working with the City of Merritt to provide curbside collection of flood debris from affected properties. Bags are being supplied to residents at the City of Merritt Resiliency Centre.
Residents can place debris curbside at any time for collection. Collection started on Monday, Dec. 6.
As best as possible, please separate debris as follows:
- Bagged refuse. Can include food waste and small materials.
- Drywall and asbestos containing materials. If bagged, please keep separate from other bagged refuse.
- Mattresses, metal, large appliances and furniture. Please stack neatly.
- Wood and large building debris.
For safety, items are not to be placed on the roadway.
Hazardous household waste, batteries, and small appliances or televisions can be taken to the Lower Nicola Landfill for free recycling.
Residents or businesses hauling materials to the Lower Nicola Landfill are subject to normal tipping fees. The landfill is open everyday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.