We have been hearing a lot lately about diversion rates when it comes to garbage, but not since recycling was introduced to Muskoka in the early ’80s has there really been another approach offered to residents. Until now.

After piloting the project with 150 homes in Huntsville last spring, the district has decided to go ahead with the curbside collection of organic waste.

This will go a long way to helping Muskoka meet its provincial diversion rate goal, with an estimated 2,400 tonnes of waste being diverted from our local landfills each year, thanks to this new program.

That is, of course, if everyone chips in.

Even now there are people who are still not using the recycling program to its fullest, or even at all, so there is some belief that not everyone will participate in the organic waste program.

There was some discussion at last week’s engineering and public works committee meeting about how to make the program more effective.

The idea of decreasing the number of garbage bags people can toss to the curb was brought up, and is something the district should consider if it is serious about the program.

District chair Gord Adams, who feels that a one-bag limit per week should come into effect, is correct in saying that as long as they allow more than one bag of garbage per household a week, it gives people an option to not participate.

If a one-bag limit were instituted now, before the organics program rolls out next spring, it would likely force everyone to re-evaluate how they recycle. Surely one bag per week isn’t too cumbersome, and a Bracebridge couple recently proved that. They deposit only four bags a year at their curb for collection.

Another incentive for joining the program is that by more people chipping in, it will eventually delay the need for a landfill expansion, currently planned in Bracebridge and estimated to cost $13 million.

“Postponing having to build these facilities will save millions,” says Tony White, district commissioner of public works.

Everyone should jump on board with this program for a number of reasons. Sure it will take a little while to figure out which item goes in what bin in the kitchen, but just think about how good it feels to know that you are doing your part, not only for the environment, but for all of Muskoka.

— KF