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What about the bears?

All west coast region residents deal with wildlife and pests, which can sometimes get into garbage and create challenges for homeowners, and risks to the animals. Enter the new Sort’nGo roadside collection carts for organic (food/yard waste), recycling and garbage! Residents will now be able to separate food waste from their garbage into new carts that are outfitted with certified wildlife-resistant locking mechanisms.
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Sort’nGo roadside collection carts for organic (food/yard waste), recycling and garbage come with certified locking mechanisms to further reduce the chance of wildlife accessing the contents.

All west coast region residents deal with wildlife and pests, which can sometimes get into garbage and create challenges for homeowners, and risks to the animals. Enter the new Sort’nGo roadside collection carts for organic (food/yard waste), recycling and garbage! Residents will now be able to separate food waste from their garbage into new carts that are outfitted with certified wildlife-resistant locking mechanisms.

The carts, which will be delivered to residential homes later this year, are designed to decrease conflict with wildlife– but reducing conflict will require continued attention from homeowners. Take a look at our tips below to reduce wildlife interactions, help our bears stay wild and keep pests out.

Using the Cart Locking Mechanisms

The new organics and garbage carts come with certified locking mechanisms to further reduce the chance of wildlife accessing the contents. Residents should:

  • Keep both clips locked to the lid 24/7 except on collection day when placing carts roadside between 5 a.m. - 8 a.m.
  • Once roadside, unlock the clips and hook the two ends together to avoid cart damage when emptied by the collection.

Securing and Storing Carts

Ideally, carts will be stored inside and away from entry doors and windows (i.e., pantry, garage). If carts must be stored outside, they will need to be properly secured. Not properly securing/storing carts is the #1 reason animals are able to get access, damage carts and increase the risk of human-wildlife conflict.

Guidelines from WildSafeBC include:

  • All types of outdoor sheds are not strong enough to prevent bears from accessing their contents – unless they are outfitted with electrical fencing.
  • If stored outdoors, secure carts with chains or cables locks to a secure base, such as a concrete block to prevent an adult bear from dragging it away.
  • Store carts in a well-lit area, or area with security/motion sensor lights.
  • Keep carts away from entryways and doors.
  • Decrease odors and attractants by storing smelly food waste (i.e., fish and meat products) in the freezer before transferring to green carts on collection day.

Materials & Resources

  • Watch - Watch our bear smart video for more tips to ‘bear in mind’ at: bit.ly/sortngo-bear-smart
  • Learn - For further tips on reducing human-wildlife conflict, follow WildsafeBC on Facebook or visit: wildsafebc.com/resources/guides
  • Access Funds – A subsidy for west coast residents is available through WildSafeBC, to help people cover the cost of electric fencing (50% up to 500$). Funding is limited and on a first come first serve basis. For more information email pacrim@wildsafebc.com.
  • Build - Materials for securing and storing carts can be purchased locally from Windsor Plywood or Slegg Lumber. Both Co-op hardware stores also have chain and carabiners (but not concrete pier blocks).

For more information as we head towards launch, please visit our web page and subscribe for updates to stay ‘in the know’ with Sort’nGo: letsconnectacrd.ca/sortngo-west-coast.