Residents will soon be able to purchase Class A compost from the Ootischenia Landfill and Salmo Transfer Station for agricultural, garden, and landscaping purposes.
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) will begin selling compost produced from both facilities on August 27.
According to a press release, the compost produced from the Central Compost Facility in Salmo has been tested to meet Class A standards, meaning it can be used in agricultural and home gardens, as well as for landscaping.
“When we opened the Central Compost Facility in August 2023, our goal was to create a local solution that would turn food and yard waste from homes and businesses into a valuable resource,” said Tom Newell, RDCK Electoral Area F Director.
“Now, two years later, we are proud to be returning that material to the community as high-quality compost that supports local gardens, farms, and landscapes. It is a perfect example of how a circular economy can work right here at home.”
The compost will have a minimum organic matter content of 50 per cent and maximum moisture content of 40 per cent.
It’s recommended as a top-dressed soil amendment for lawns and gardens.
Sales will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last.
Ootischenia Landfill
At the Ootischenia Landfill, compost can be self-loaded into containers and vehicles at a maximum load of 1.5 cubic metres per customer per day.
Customers will be required to bring their own containers and shovels, and any other supplies needed to access the compost.
Customers will be charged $20.00 per cubic metre for compost, with a minimum charge of $5.00 for loads less than or equal to 0.25 cubic metres.
Site staff will assess the volume of loads using standard measurement methods, and charge based on the nearest 0.25 cubic metre.
Salmo Transfer Station
At the Salmo Transfer Station, customers can purchase compost via self-loading or in bulk.
For bulk loads that exceed 1.5 cubic metres, the rate is $35 per tonne of compost.
Bulk loads will require customers to have an open-bed truck or walled trailer with a minimum capacity of 0.5 cubic metres.
Customers will be required to stay in their vehicle with the vehicle shut off while they are loaded with compost by the equipment operator.
Loads greater than 1.5 cubic metres will require 48 hours’ notice to coordinate operations.
The RDCK also announced a partnership with Creston Valley Fields Forward Society, which has received about 250 cubic metres of compost donated by the RDCK to sell as a fundraising activity.
It will also be used to develop community garden areas, as part of the Kootenay Farms Community Garden Project.
Visit rdck.ca/organics for more information on the compost sales and product.
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