Alternatives to Open Burning
Recent studies have found that 53% of total PM2.5 emissions in the Cowichan Valley resulted from open burning. North Cowichan encourages other means of disposing of yard waste to reduce the volume of fine particulate matter being discharged into the air. In particular, open burning is restricted within the urban containment boundary because these areas have the highest density of homes and businesses that can be adversely affected by smoke.
Instead of burning, North Cowichan encourages you to compost at home, utilize a wood chipper or take your yard waste (year-round, free of charge) to one of these Cowichan Valley Regional District solid waste management and recycling facilities:
- Bings Creek Solid Waste Management Complex, 3900 Drinkwater Road, Duncan. Open daily 8:00am to 5:00pm. Closed on all Statutory Holidays, Easter Monday & Boxing Day.
- Peerless Road Drop-Off Depot, 10830 Westdowne Road, Ladysmith. Check website to confirm hours.
For further information:
- Phone the CVRD Recycling Hotline at 250-746-2540
- Read about the health effects of wood smoke at British Columbia Lung Association.