Merritt-area residents who are still cleaning up after the flood in November have an extra month where they can dispose of the debris for free.

TNRD Deputy General Manager of Operations, Jamie Vieira, says people can bring any flood debris to the Lower Nicola Eco-Depot free of charge until the end of May.

“There are still a lot properties that have yet to be cleaned up,” he told NL News. “Fortunately, the province has been covering the disposal fees for flood related debris at the landfill.”

“We’re reminding and encouraging everyone if you still have flood debris to clean that up now so that you don’t have to pay fees. After May 31, disposal fees will be back in effect for all that material.”

The disposal fees for any construction related debris like drywall and flooring are $160 per ton, while the fees for any regular household flood-related garbage is $80 per ton.

Launched in November – and funded by Emergency Management BC – the Flood Debris Removal Program was to wrap up at the end of April before the one month extension.

“The Eco-Depot attendants have been doing an amazing job. They’re going to be screening loads and then it is up to the person bringing the material in to clearly identify and tell the attendant that it is flood related debris,” he said.

“Then they’ll be required to fill out that declaration form including all of their information so that we can confirm that their area was in the flood zone.”

Vieira though is asking people to expect longer than usual waits at the Eco-Depot as staff process those declaration forms.

“It is recommended that residents access the Lower Nicola Eco-Depot as soon as possible to dispose of flood debris, in order to avoid potentially longer wait times,” he said. “They should then keep their receipts, and take photos of debris for your insurance provider, or for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA).”

Vieira also tells NL News that the TNRD will also be doing curb side pick up of flood debris from the community of Brookmere on Monday, April 25.

Any residents or contractors who have already paid tipping fees for flood-related debris, can apply for reimbursement here.

For more information, including operating hours and a list of materials that will be accepted at the Lower Nicola Eco Depot, go here.