The Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) are asking the public for feedback on their Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) draft- the CSRD’s long-term roadmap for garbage, recycling and waste reduction management.
The CSRD said the plan will help them make smarter decisions to protect the environment, meet provincial requirements and secure years of needed infrastructure.
Locals from Salmon Arm, Revelstoke and Golden will have the opportunity to provide their feedback on the SWMP draft through online surveys.
It is required by the Ministry of Environment and Parks that all regional districts create and update their plans on a regular basis.
“Waste isn’t free. Every item discarded carries a cost – from the resources used to make the item, to handling, processing and its environmental impact,” said Ben Van Nostrand, General Manager, Environmental and Utility Services in the release.
Those who complete the survey also have the chance to win a prize. The survey closes on Oct. 31, 2025.
“Effective waste management builds climate resiliency, operates efficiently, and keeps costs sustainable for the community. We want to hear from residents about their priorities. This survey will help us do that,” Nostrand said.
Pop-up events will also take place at landfills and transfer stations across the region to give people a chance to share their ideas and concerns, ask questions and overall learn about the SWMP.
CSRD staff will also be available for coffee, cookies and conversation over the next five weeks at special drop-in events.
Revelstoke residents can meet at the Revelstoke Community and Aquatic Centre on Oct. 2, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
For Golden residents, the drop-in event is at the Golden Senior Centre the week after, on Oct. 9, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
For Sicamous, the event will be held at the Sicamous and District recreation Centre on Oct. 15, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Lastly, for Salmon Arm residents, their event will happen at the CSRD Boardroom in Salmon Arm on Oct. 22, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.