Access to green spaces and parks remains essential.
With so many visitors enjoying campgrounds, parks and beaches this summer, there has been an influx of food and trash.
This excess waste creates a dangerous situation when not disposed of properly. We would like to ask our visitors to follow responsible dumpster etiquette on their next visit.
If the trash is full, do not add to the pile.
This is the big conclusion.
If the container is full, do not leave trash on top of or next to the container. Overflowing trash cans are an eyesore and can ruin the park experience for other visitors.
They also create a number of detrimental problems for wildlife. Garbage left outside attracts animals and can lead to unwanted encounters with wildlife in busy park spaces.
This can be dangerous for both our visitors and the wildlife themselves.
What should I do with my garbage if the container is full?
If there is no room in the first dumpster, be sure to take a look around your area to see if another dumpster is available.
If empty trash cans are not available, take your trash home.
You can avoid trash problems with proper planning and preparation for your next visit. Pack an extra trash bag for your visit just in case and use it to pack up trash to take home.
If you have any large items, such as broken equipment, we ask that you take those home as well. Our trash cans are not designed to hold things like broken tents, chairs, and umbrellas.
But why are they full? Why don’t the staff empty them more frequently?
Our staff went to incredible lengths to keep our parks clean.
They work hard to make sure the trash is emptied frequently, but sometimes the trash is more than they can handle.
When visiting parks, remember to do so responsibly and respect park resources. It takes a team to manage a resource sustainably and together we can make a difference.
What else can I do?
If you want to be a more litter-savvy visitor, there are a few things you can do to help.
A little planning and preparation can go a long way. When packing for your visit, think about each item you will bring. When you come to the park prepared, you are more likely to minimize your impact on the environment.
Reduce the amount of waste you bring into our parks by bringing your food and drinks in reusable containers that you can take home later. If visitors bring less waste, there will be less to divert!
Properly package and dispose of any waste you generate, including biodegradable items. They can take months to biodegrade, and in the meantime they attract animals.
Remember: pack it in, pack it in. If you bring something with you, take it with you when you leave. We must always leave no trace.
Let’s be protectors of the park!
We work hard to protect the beautiful green spaces of Ontario’s parks so everyone can enjoy them safely and reap the benefits for their physical and mental well-being.
By working together, we can ensure our parks remain clean, safe and beautiful for visitors to enjoy for years to come.
Thanks for doing your part.