Why are people carelessly tossing their garbage into the forest around Squamish?
A pile of household garbage was recently spotted near Pilchuk Bridge in the Upper Squamish Valley (see page A3) and a rusting barbecue and rotting couch were found in the estuary. These are just two examples of illegal dumping that is becoming too common in our community.
It isn’t expensive to drop off garbage at the dump – 100 pounds of garbage costs between $6.50 to $13 to dispose off. Mattresses are $10, fridges are $25 and recyclables are free.
The hours at the dump – it’s open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week – are good for nearly everyone’s schedule.
So what gives? Why do people dump their garbage in Squamish’s most pristine areas, including out in the backcountry and on Squamish Nation land?
It can’t be laziness since hauling garbage into the forest usually takes more effort than driving it to the dump. Often, it must cost more in gas money than to pay the tipping fee.
This problem isn’t only in the Sea to Sky Corridor. It happens in most communities, especially when forests – sadly, convenient dumping grounds – are nearby.
Residential and construction garbage, along with partying mess, grow operation waste and shotgun shells and targets are the most common types of illegal garbage found around Squamish.
Disposing of drywall can be tricky. There are rules around asbestos and, although frustrating for contractors, are there for good reason.
Drywall that is new or date-stamped since 1990 is accepted for recycling, but it requires asbestos testing in North Vancouver if it doesn’t meet this criteria. If asbestos is found, a private company can take it away.
But these rules are no excuse to illegally dump in some of the most beautiful areas of Squamish, which has cost the District of Squamish $9,294 of your tax dollars so far this year. Last year $15,171 was shelled out. Dumping has also put a strain on the Squamish Nation and its private industry managers, including the Sqomish Forestry Company.
The Sea to Sky Illegal Garbage Dumping Map, a map created by a Squamish resident that pinpoints garbage, should help volunteers drag out the garbage. The Four Wheel Drive Association of B.C, for instance, has been helping since the 1970s.
But there shouldn’t be illegal dumping at all. Squamish residents, please be responsible and take your trash to the dump. It’s a very easy way to keep the backcountry in good shape.
