Rural residents in parts of the Regional District of Central Kootenay will be eligible for rebates and other incentives aimed at reducing the amount of organic waste sent to landfill under a new RDCK program.
The Rural Organic Waste Diversion and Climate Resilient Communities project, funded by Columbia Basin Trust, will provide financial assistance and educational resources to residents living outside the region’s larger municipalities.
Eligible households can receive rebates of up to $175 toward approved organic waste management systems, including backyard composters, food waste digesters, tumbler composters, vermicomposting systems, Bokashi kits and electric food recyclers.
“The RDCK is committed to helping residents reduce what goes to landfill while building solutions that work in rural settings,” said Alayne Hamilton, acting resource recovery manager, projects and programs, for the RDCK. “This program makes it easier for households to take action, whether they’re new to composting or looking to improve their current approach.”
The program also offers free organic waste collection containers for residents who transport food waste to RDCK disposal facilities, as well as tipping-fee vouchers for food waste disposal. Information on accepted materials and proper disposal practices will also be provided.
The initiative is open to residents of RDCK electoral areas outside municipal boundaries and to residents of Salmo, Slocan, New Denver, Silverton, Nakusp and Kaslo.
Residents of Nelson, Castlegar and Creston are not eligible because those municipalities already offer organic waste diversion services.
Funding will be available until August 2027, or until program funds have been exhausted. Rebates and other resources will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Residents must complete a short eligibility survey before applying. The RDCK has also prepared fact sheets outlining the costs, maintenance requirements and other considerations associated with the various composting and food waste management systems, including wildlife safety.
The regional district said diverting organic waste from landfill can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, extend landfill capacity and support broader waste reduction efforts.
“This project recognizes that rural residents face unique challenges,” Hamilton said. “By providing flexible options and practical support, we’re making it easier, safer, and more affordable for everyone to participate in organic waste diversion.”
More information about the program, including eligibility requirements and rebate applications, is available at engage.rdck.ca/projects/ruralorganics.
