Barges continue to remove unnatural debris from the shores of local lakes including unclaimed broken docks, unregistered boats, garbage and barrels, along with large trees or stumps. Damaged docks and pilings still in place are the responsibility of the property owner.
Any debris that residents do not want removed should be clearly marked with “Do Not Remove”, so crews know to leave it behind. This may include sections of dock residents are hoping to repair. If possible, use fluorescent orange flagging tape or paint.
Barges are working today along the shore at McKinley Landing in Kelowna and will be moving north through Lake Country and then across Okanagan Lake to north Westside Road later this week. A separate contractor will be starting tomorrow at the south end of Wood Lake and then Kalamalka Lake.
Small woody debris on private property is the responsibility of residents. It can be disposed of as yard waste and put into the curbside yard waste bins providing it meets acceptable size limits under the program.
Yard-waste type debris can be taken to the Glenmore landfill free in loads up to 250 kilograms and less than 5 centimetres in circumference. Regular tipping fees apply to other loads.
Yard-waste sized debris may also be taken to:
See the Regional District Regional of Central Okanagan Yard Waste Program for more information.
Sandbag removal
Waterfront property owners with sandbag walls can begin to lower them, but should keep them at a level that protects against wind and wave action.
Residents removing sandbags and working around stagnant water should also take precautions to protect themselves. Sandbags that have been sitting in water could contain mould. Residents should wear N95 respirators, nitrile gloves and rubber boots while working and should wash hands and clothes well after handling the bags.
Residents can continue to support flood recovery efforts by bringing sandbags to the street front for pickup and disposal. Burlap and polypropylene bags should be divided into separate piles at the curb.
Under no circumstances should sandbags be emptied into any creeks, lakes, wetland, beaches or other watercourses as outlined in the Water Sustainability Act. The impact can destroy fish habitat and affect drinking water supply, infrastructure, flood control, navigation and recreational activities.