Sooke is preventing wildfires by taking yard waste off your hands.
As part of its FireSmart initiative, the district has announced a new Broom Drop-Off program, inviting Sooke residents to drop off broom and yard waste from homes and businesses at no cost.
“Managing vegetation around our properties is an effective way we can reduce the risk of wildfire in Sooke,” said Madison Crawford, Sooke's FireSmart program coordinator.
“We’re making it easier for residents to take action and be part of the solution.”
When dropping off, the district instructs residents to separate broom waste from other waste using separate piles or bags, ensuring all materials are loose and not tied with string or wire.
The district also encourages residents to investigate installing proper vegetation, fire-resistant landscaping and defensible space around homes and businesses.
They will accept broom, branches, leaves, pine needles, grass clippings, small shrubs and garden trimmings.
They will not accept soil, rocks or gravel, construction debris, food waste or kitchen scraps, plastic bags, garbage or non-organic materials and any invasive species other than broom.
The drop-off service will be available at Sooke Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Road, each Saturday in May from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
