Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc has opened a new Engineered Waste Management Facility, in partnership with Grassland Organics.

It says the opening of the Stswékstem Engineered Waste Management Facility is a “significant milestone” that came about after three years of efforts.

“It signifies a major milestone in realizing our responsibility as yecwemínem (caretakers); Tḱemlúpsemc (the people of the confluence) have a responsibility to be stewards of the land,” Kukpí7 Rosanne Casimir, said.

“Stswékstem’s core focus is diverting waste away from the landfill, while ensuring the surrounding community, wildlife and environment are protected.”

Located at 801 Strawberry Hill Lane (off Chief Louis Way), Casimir says the new facility utilizes innovative technology, industry best practices and robust environmental monitoring methods.

Waste management services available to Tḱemlúpsemc and the surrounding community include:

• Residential and commercial drop-off services for municipal solid waste;
• Demolition, land-clearing, and construction material depot;
• A recycling transfer station for metals, asphalt shingles, batteries, propane tanks, appliances and other miscellaneous household items;
• An organic matter compost facility with the capacity to convert all locally generated food and yard waste into nutrient-rich topsoil;
• And hydrovac truck solidification sumps for non-hazardous material.

“Having an integrated facility where the community can take recyclables, food waste, yard waste, plus construction waste is unique in Canada,” Rob Maciak, the CEO of Grassland Organics added, in a statement.

“I’m really proud of what we have accomplished through our partnership with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc and I’m confident this facility will be a model for other communities moving forward.”

For more information, includes rates and hours of operation, go here.