A popular spring cleanup program is back in the Comox Valley, giving residents a free way to get rid of yard waste while helping reduce wildfire risk.

The Comox Valley FireSmart Collaborative, working with Vancouver Island Enterprises, is once again offering free yard debris drop-off throughout April and May.

The service will be available daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1200 Knight Road in Comox, although operations will depend on weather conditions.

Residents can bring items like leaves, grass clippings, small branches up to three inches in diameter, and other plant material - either loose or in paper yard waste bags.

However, food waste, plastic bags, rocks, concrete, stumps, and invasive species are not accepted. Commercial operators are also not eligible to use the program.

The initiative is designed to help people clear out excess yard debris that won’t fit in curbside bins, while also encouraging FireSmart practices.

Captain Brent Craven of Comox Fire Rescue says removing dry leaves, twigs, and branches from properties can significantly lower the risk of wildfire damage to homes and neighbourhoods.

Get details at Comox Valley Regional District.

Courtenay residents with excess yard waste this season have another option for disposal - the drop-off collection point at the end of McKenzie Avenue will be available again for a limited time this spring.

The yard waste drop-off is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., from April 7 to May 2.

“Many households find themselves managing extra yard waste in the spring as they clean up winter debris and get their gardens ready for the growing season,” said Chris Thompson, Manager of Public Works Services at the City of Courtenay.

“With the strong participation we saw earlier last spring and fall, we’ve included Saturday drop-off times to give residents even more flexibility.” 

McKenzie Avenue is located next to the City Operations Yard (formerly Public Works) and is accessed from Cumberland Road just west of the train tracks between McPhee and Piercy Avenues.

Organizers say it’s important that yard waste is free from anything that can’t be composted, so you are advised to check for things like plant pots or stray household items that may have ended up in the pile.

FireSmart BC is a province-wide effort aimed at helping communities become more resilient to wildfires.

To learn more, visit City of Courtenay.