With the rollout of Portage la Prairie’s new automated garbage collection system this month, some residents may find themselves making more trips to the Portage Regional Landfill. But if you’re planning to haul extra waste yourself, city officials have a clear message: tarp your load or be prepared to pay.
City councillor Terrie Porter, Director of the Portage Regional Landfill Authority, says the rules around landfill use aren’t new, but more important than ever as residents adjust to stricter curbside collection limits.
“We are a Class 1 landfill, which means we operate under stricter environmental regulations,” Porter explains. “That includes requiring every single load brought to the landfill to be fully tarped. If it’s not, you’ll either be fined $250 or turned away at the gate.”
Since August 1, only garbage that fits inside the new black 360-litre carts, with the lid fully closed, will be collected. Extra bags, even with tags, are no longer accepted at the curb, making the landfill a more likely destination for overflow waste.
But the tarping rule isn’t just about compliance, it’s about safety.
"Unsecured garbage can pose serious hazards. Even something as simple as a chicken wire fence flying off the back of a truck can injure wildlife or cause a crash. It’s also about keeping our streets and highways clean and free of litter," she says.
To help reinforce the message, the landfill board plans to increase signage reminding drivers to secure their garbage before heading out. But for now, the responsibility lies with the public.
“You’ve got to organize your garbage ahead of time. There are different areas at the landfill for appliances and scrap metal. If you bring it in all jumbled together, you’ll spend a lot more time sorting it on-site," she advises.
Councillor Garth Asham, Deputy Reeve for the RM of Portage la Prairie, has seen the impact of non-compliance firsthand.
“I live near the landfill, and I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen untarped loads,” says Asham. “It only costs five or ten dollars. It’s reusable, it’s safer, and it shows respect for your community," he adds.
Asham also emphasizes the broader impact of a well-maintained landfill on the city’s reputation.
“A clean community is beneficial to everybody, and it encourages tourism. People who see a beautiful, clean community want to come back.”
Despite the challenges, the landfill has earned a reputation for cleanliness and organization, thanks to its dedicated staff.
“We’re known as one of the cleanest landfills around. Outside haulers often comment on how well-maintained it is. That’s because our team of five or so, led by Jamie Lilley, does a fantastic job," Porter notes.
While the landfill accepts a wide range of materials, Porter reminds residents that some items must be handled elsewhere.
“No oil, no gas-powered equipment with fluids still in it, and no lithium batteries. Those need to go to the recycling depot here in town, which is open 24/7," she says.
So, whether you're unloading old furniture or dealing with yard waste, remember: cover it up or pay up because a cleaner community starts with what we don’t leave behind.
For more information on the new garbage collection system, landfill regulations, or recycling options, visit the City of Portage la Prairie website or check your City Guide.
~With files from Jared Thiessen
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