Home / Environment / Waterloo Ditches Tree Pickup for Charity Donations
Waterloo Ditches Tree Pickup for Charity Donations
9 Sep
Summary
- Region of Waterloo scraps free curbside tree collection.
- New model shifts to charity-based donation pickups.
- Annual cost savings estimated at $540,000 for the region.
Region of Waterloo councillors have voted to discontinue the established curbside Christmas tree collection service, a move aimed at significant municipal cost reduction. The annual expenditure for this service totals $540,000, despite participation dropping to less than three percent of households. A new strategy, modeled after Guelph's successful "Trees for Tots" program, will replace the old model.
This revised approach will feature a charity donation-based pickup system, partnering with organizations like the Family and Children's Services Foundation. This initiative seeks to generate critical funds for children's programs while ensuring trees are repurposed for local trail projects. Alternative free disposal options, including landfill drop-off and bulk item collection, will remain available for residents.
