Environmental Action

Environmental
Action
2015 Environmental Awareness-related projects
NEW in
2014/2015
Environmental Action subcommittee
• Very active Environmental Action sub-committee of Heartland Beautification Committee
carried out multiple initiatives and activities, with focus on recycling, reduction in resource
consumption, reduction in pollution, increased health and wellness and reduced wastage
NEW PROJECTS 2015
• Business Recycling – published information on helping businesses to set up private recycling
• Cigarette Butt receptacles – 2 to be installed in public parking lots on a trial basis, including
recycling of the butts
• "Go Bagless" – “leave grass clippings on the lawn” promotional campaign
• The Blue Dot Movement – working to join a group of Canadian municipalities that
recognizes the right to a healthy environment
• Bottled water usage – beginning to address
ON-GOING PROJECTS:
• "Walk 'n' Roll" Campaign – to encourage active transportation; Walk/Bike distance signage
installed in 2014, additional signs added in 2015; Walk ‘n Roll month declared for August
• "Trying to Be Idle-Free – Idling awareness campaign; signage in parking lots and store doors;
stickers, shopping cart tokens, signage
• "Trash 2 Treasure" weekend – residents set out unwanted items for others to take for free
• Recycling Excellence Awards – 3rd annual awards to those who reduce, re-use and recycle in
3 categories (Business, Individual, Non-Profit) will be presented at the CIB Judges Dinner;
Also recognizing the Business Category at the Board of Trade Business & Citizenship Awards
Night on October 2015
• Green Tips – published weekly in 5 local newspapers, newsletters and websites –
maintained on TOS website
• "BYOBag" – regular "BYO Bag" day promotions to encourage re-usable bag usage for
shopping
• Backyard Composting Campaigns – at Trade Show and info posted at neighbourhood
compost bins
37
•
•
Fruit/Vegetable Exchange – residents exchange excess produce
“Where do I take it? – A-Z list” – maintaining a list of 500 items and where to recycle or
responsibly dispose of them – on TOS website
Stettler Waste Management Authority (SWMA)
• Stettler Eco Centre – completed in September 2013, takes all paint, household batteries,
fluorescent bulbs, inkjet/laser toners, all toxic Household Hazardous Waste.
• Take it or Leave it Building – residents drop off unwanted items like furniture and others
may take them for free; building funded from 5 local sources. Construction begins Summer
2015
• Solar lighting being investigated for part of the Stettler Transfer Site.
• In their 2015 Strategic Plan, SWMA identified as a top priority to increase diversion from our
landfills by fostering and encouraging "Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle"
• Continuing Household Battery Recycling box program in multiple sites in area
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2014 Evaluation Form
ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION
Environmental action includes the efforts and achievement of the community with respect to: policies, by-laws, programs
and best practices, waste reduction and diversion rate to landfill, composting sites, landfill sites, hazardous waste
collections, water conservation, naturalization, and environmental stewardship activities under the guiding principles of
sustainable development pertaining to green spaces.
Max
Municipal
Sustainable development strategy: policies, programs, guidelines, long-term planning / vision;
effective bylaws / policies and their enforcement; and public education programs and activities
Waste management programs: waste reduction to landfill and results (3-R : recycling, re-use,
reduce), composting (backyard and municipal)), and including activities such as composting sites
yard waste collections, shredding of Christmas trees, handling of hazardous waste including e-waste
collection
Water conservation and use-reduction programs: efficient appliance incentives or promotion,
efficient irrigation and use of non-potable water, water restriction policies, rainwater management
Energy conservation programs such as alternate forms of energy (ex. geothermal, biomass, wind,
solar), and initiatives such as, shielding for night skies issues, efficient street lighting and energy
audits.
Environmental initiatives, innovations and actions such as:
Protection of sensitive habitats
Development and expansion of sustainable mobility and active transportation network such as bike
lanes and multi-used pathways.
Phytotechnology practices such as green roofs, green walls, green lanes, living fences, buffer zones;
re-use of sites; engineered wetlands, bio-swales and permeable surfaces
Brownfield redevelopment, remediation, land reclamation.
Air quality programs such as anti-idling, reduction of greenhouse gas emission.
Actual
20
17.5
15
12.5
15
12.5
10
8
10
8.5
10
8.5
10
9
Participation in the 3-R (recycle, reuse, reduce) initiatives and composting
20
17.5
Adoption of water conservation practices & policies including rainwater collection
15
12.5
Public participation in public forums and policy development on environmental issues
5
4
Public participation in community, neighbourhood or individual street environmental activities and
programs (including, promotion, organization and evidence of taking ownership), etc.)
10
8
Support – financial and/or in-kind or participation by the Municipality, Businesses and Institutions
in public environmental activities and programs
10
8.5
150.00
127.00
Business & Institutions
Participation in the environmental effort : such as waste management (recycle, reuse, reduce),
water conservation, energy conservation, brownfield management, eco-park
Corporate environmental innovation / stewardship, initiatives, activities (Ex. Environmental clean-up
activities)
Residential
Community Involvement
Environmental Action Total
2014 Evaluation Form
ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION
Observations:
We were impressed with the multiplicity of environmental activities/achievements throughout the
community such as: comprehensive waste management program, bins for grass clipping in residential
areas, bottle/can recycling containers on all community garbage cans, anti-idling signs around the
school, the promotion by posters of the campaign: “Did you B.Y.O. Bag?”…
Water meters are in use since a many years, people are aware of how much water they consume.
There are incentives for water savings, e.g.: rebates for purchasing water barrels or toilet models that
use less water.
There are also new bike racks. There is a "Walk’n Roll" campaign, and there are new signs indicating
the distance to the center of the town.
The “Stettler Transfer Station” has purchased a fluorescent “Bulb-Eater”, with help of “T.D. Friends of
the Environment Fund” grant. The machine allows the save collection and disposal of hazardous
materials in the CFB’s.
Since Fall of 2013, Stettler Eco Centre offers toxic waste collection year round.
Recommendations:
A lot of money is spent for maintenance in the parks, especially for lawn mowing. Consider the use of
eco grass to lower the water consumption; more publicity on the low maintenance and water needs of
eco-grass could end-up in a greater use by residents. The use of eco-grass in a park with a sign to
advertise it could also help residents to see the results and encourage them to seed eco-grass; knowing
the mowing could be done only once a month could be an incentive for certain people!
A demonstration rain garden on public land could also be an incentive for residents to try it.
Most of the branches are burnt; continue to plan other options like wood chipping rather than burning.
“Big-Size” furniture is picked-up only once a year; consider more frequent pick-up.
Consider a “take it, use it” facility for furniture.
Consider, if returning used batteries, to put e.g. 10 batteries together with your name in a bag, and
raffle a prize once in a while. This stimulates people to bring back the batteries instead of throwing
them away in the waste bin.
The maintenance of the two community gardens is well taken care of, the addition of another
community garden should be considered to meet the needs of the residents.
Consider the implementation of a green procurement policy for all municipal purchases.
Continue the program to expand, extend and interconnect the pathway system through the
community and connect to adjacent communities.
Endeavour to have all local events completely "green events" with actions such as all vendor plates and
utensils being completely recyclable, all food wastes recycled and bottled water sales substituted with
personal water bottle refill stations.
9|P a g e
Environmental Action / Awareness
HBC & TOS Video – ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION
General Environmental Action activities
Town of Stettler Town council amended its mission statement in 2012 to include social and
environmental responsibility. It now reads “We will provide a high quality of life for our
residents and visitors through leadership and the delivery of effective, efficient and affordable
services that are socially and environmentally responsible.”
The Town of Stettler webpage has a recycling and environment section in “Town Services,”
featuring many links to valuable information. Tips on water conservation and effective lawn
watering are included in various Town newsletters and water bills. The Stettler Independent
often features articles for homeowners, teaching them how to upgrade their homes the
ecologically friendly way.
Recycling and Environment tips on the Town of Stettler webpage
Environmental Action Sub-committee
In 2011/2012, to increase the focus and participation in the areas of environment,
conservation, etc., the Heartland Beautification Committee created a new Environmental
Action sub-committee. This committee grew in a short period of time to 7 members (with
individuals changing periodically) and has initiated a number of successful projects and brought
in over $10,000 in grant funding for specific, environment-related projects. The committee has
initiated and/or completed projects related to bottle recycling, reducing plastic bag usage,
idling reduction, increasing walking/bicycle usage, increasing backyard composting and
fruit/vegetable rescue, encouraging the 3Rs of recycling through recognition and education,
increased business recycling, curbside composting, cigarette waste receptacles, etc. Promotion
and advocacy for behavioral change are built into various projects. Project details and results
are reported below.
The motto of the Environmental Action sub-committee is “No one can do everything.
Everyone can do something.”
The EA sub-committee, and some environment-related groups in the community have been
investigating The Blue Dot Movement, which is about working to join a group of Canadian
municipalities that recognizes the right to a healthy environment
NEW in
2014/2015
Recycling Excellence Awards
In 2013, the first annual Recycling Excellence Awards were developed, implemented and
awarded at the Communities in Bloom Judges Dinner and then again at the fall Stettler Board of
Trade Community Excellence Awards Dinner. These awards are meant to recognize outstanding
programs or habits that exemplify one or more of the 3 R’s: reducing resource consumption, reusing rather than buying new, and/or recycling as much as possible. Community members are
41
invited to nominate individuals, households, businesses, and non-profit groups/organizations,
with winners selected from three classes (individual, business, non-profit).
In the inaugural year, 7 groups, businesses, and individuals were nominated. All nominees
were notified and congratulated. In the spirit of the award, it is more about public recognition
than a material award. Winners and nominees have been posted on the Town of Stettler
website and will be included in all promotions. The awards are repeated annually, with
multiple nominations in each category.
Green Tip of the Week
The Environmental Action sub-committee initiated and has maintained an extensive “Green
Awareness” campaign, partnered with the Stettler Independent newspaper, the Stettler Board
of Trade, the Town of Stettler monthly water bill newsletter and Town of Stettler website. Each
week, “Green Tips” outline various environmentally-friendly activities and behaviors, such as
water conservation, mowing, composting, idling, single use plastic bag usage, etc.
The Green Tip is published every week in the local newspaper and is sponsored either by the
newspaper itself or by a local business. Q93.3, the local radio station, promotes the weekly tip
twice daily all week, free of charge. The Green Tip is displayed on the Town of Stettler and
Stettler Regional Board of Trade websites each week and is promoted on their Facebook pages.
New “Green Tips” are either created or recycled/refurbished.
Green Tips on Town of Stettler website
42
NEW in
2014/2015
Environmental Action and other groups are
investigating joining The Blue Dot Movement
NEW in
2014/2015
Burning signs for Transfer Station
43
Composting
Composting Bin Site
Composting at Transfer station
There are 6 compost bin sites set up in various, easily accessible areas around town, with
others projected to be added in the future. Stettler residents have taken advantage of the
program and the bins are emptied approximately twice per week. Some locations have as many
as 6 bins at the site, and are filled up very rapidly. Approximately 6-10 tons of compostable
yard waste is collected per week. Signage at each collection site directs those leaving
compostable materials to not leave plastic bags, branches, etc. The piles are turned regularly
over a 3 year period. Prior to use, the compost is sifted, to remove any undesirable debris.
Compost is no longer picked up with curbside garbage and put in the landfill. Many
homeowners have also taken it upon themselves to compost meal leftovers, coffee grinds, and
other biodegradable items and use them for their own gardens and lawns. The end product is
used in town parks and homeowners are welcome to use it as well.
The EA sub-committee is working on a "Go Bagless" promotional campaign, which encourages
residents to “leave grass clippings on the lawn”.
NEW in
2014/2015
Curbside Composting Project
Since mid-late 2013, the Environmental Action sub-committee has been investigating the
potential for adding compostable materials to the existing curbside recycling pickup program,
with the hope of having something ready in the future. A survey for residents was prepared to
assess the interest and willingness of having compostable materials picked up at residences. At
the same time, they researched different options for pickup and potential savings and issues.
The company that contracts the pickup of recyclables and garbage in town was consulted,
breaking down different costs for residents, depending on pickup options. A proposal was
presented to Town of Stettler Council, but it was determined to not be acceptable (price,
acceptability by residents, etc.) and was rejected by council for the present time.
44
Map produced March 2010
Intended for general information only
The Town of Stettler is not responsible
for any errors or omissions.
Datum: NAD 83
Projection: UTM Zone 12
Additional copies available at
www.stettler.net
Av
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Town of Stettler Compost Bin Locations
38 Ave.
1
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)
51 Ave & 57 St. in vacant lot
2
"
)
51 Ave. & 45 St.
3
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)
In alley by railway tracks
4
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)
41 Ave. & 60 St. in alley
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41 Ave. & 65 St. in alley
6
"
)
51 Ave. & 62 St. in alley
1:20,000
0
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500
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1,000
Backyard Composting
The Environmental Action subcommittee has been running a backyard composting awareness
program since 2012 and has also arranged for compost bins to be built on order by students
from the Building Construction program at Wm. E. Hay Composite High School. Compost bins
are available in 2 sizes – 1 cubic metre and 0.5 cubic metres and were initially available (2012)
in 2 types of wood (untreated spruce and cedar). The design of the 0.5 metre bins have been
adjusted to create more composting-friendly bins. Students built sample boxes to demonstrate
and then give away in a draw at the Town of Stettler booth in the Trade Show in 2012-2015.
Orders were also taken from Trade Show visitors. To date, more than 40 have been ordered to
be built through promotion at the Trade Show since 2012.
A "Backyard Composting - Getting Started" brochure was created and promoted in the Town
of Stettler and Stettler Board of Trade newsletters and websites. It is handed out at the Trade
Show and at the Annual Plant Swap / Spring Plant Exchange. It is also available from the town
office and on the town website. It is also placed at Composting Sites around town.
Backyard Composting - Getting Started document
Recycling
In 2009, Stettler implemented a bi-weekly laneway
green box recycling pickup program, following a
recycling study initiated by HBC’s Recycling Committee.
The first laneway (residential) recycling bins were
delivered free of charge to Stettler residents.
Replacements are available for sale at the Town Office
for $10. This program is available to private residences,
with planned expansions into recycling programs for
apartments and businesses. A monthly fee is charged
along with waste collection charges.
Recycling You Tube video
You said it – We DIDN’T do it!
Encourage residents to store their recyclables
in clear or blue bags rather than in open
recycle bins to reduce windblown debris.”
A formal process or campaign was not
implemented as we have observed that many
residents already utilize alternative
containers, and/or bag their recyclables, as
they have a large quantity.
In addition, recyclables are picked up quickly
over the course of the single day.
Recyclables are picked up every second Wednesday, on a rotating basis by neighborhood.
Residents can recycle cardboard, paper, glass, metal, plastics without sorting. Handouts were
put into town water bills to inform residents and businesses what they can do with the items
they would like to recycle. A demonstration green box has been at the annual Stettler and
District Trade Show in the Town of Stettler booth. A YouTube video of how the program works,
how much has been collected, and where the recycling goes was created and posted on the
Town website and the Town of Stettler Facebook page and then on the Town of Stettler
YouTube channel. Town Councillors have visited the recycling companies sorting site to
observe and report back that recyclables are being handled according to expectations.
46
Green boxes are placed in back alleys or on
street fronts for the collection of recyclables
According to the recycling contractor, Stettler recyclables are recognizable upon arrival in the
sorting facility, due to their clean nature. Stettler has responded overwhelmingly to the
recycling program, greatly reducing the amount of recyclables in the waste stream. It is not
unusual to see multiple containers at a single residence.
Commercial businesses are encouraged to sign up for private recycling pickup and local schools
have added a series of recycling programs. The Environmental Action subcommittee has been
working on ways to increase commercial recycling within the community.
The following is the garbage and recycling schedule, plus recycling instructions prepared by the
Town for our residents.
Recycling and Garbage Schedule
You said it – We DIDN’T do it!
NEW in
2014/2015
“Consider the use of eco-grass to lower the water
consumption. More publicity on the low
maintenance and water needs of eco-grass could
end up in greater use by residents. The use of ecograss in a park with a sign to advertise it could
also help residents to see the results and
encourage them to seed eco-grass; Knowing the
mowing could be done only once a month could
be incentive for certain people!”
You said it – We DID it!
“...there is some concern about the use of
[recycled] water on edibles, particularly close
to the ground”
It was determined that only treated water is
used in the community gardens for watering
plants
At present, the focus is on getting residents to
reduce watering, practice improved,
environmentally conscious lawn care (thatching,
putting clippings back on the lawn, composting
their clippings, etc.). This is a slow process,
which is now getting some traction. Baby steps…
47
2015 Garbage & Recycling Schedule
Transfer
Station
Main St. (50 St.)
Hwy. 56 (51 Ave.)
Hwy. 12
Hwy. 12
46 Ave.
44 Ave.
Please have garbage/recycling
out by 7am on the indicated day,
or you may be missed!
Garbage day indicated
by solid yellow, red or
green.
No collection
February 2015
January 2015
M
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Recycling day indicated by
colour of leaf.
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1
Questions on Garbage or Recycling? Please see our website at www.stettler.net
phone: 403-742-8305 e-mail: [email protected] created Nov. 2014
Curbside Recycling:
Not enough bins? More are available at the Town Office (5031 – 50 St.) for $10 each
Paper:
• catalogues + magazines
• computer paper
• envelopes
• greeting cards + non‐foil gift wrap
• paperback + hardcover books
• paper bags
• paper egg cartons
• phonebooks
• shredded paper (only accepted in clear plastic bags)
• newspapers, inserts and junk mail
Metals (rinse, remove or trap ends):
• aluminum cans
• aluminum containers (pie plates)
Glass (remove lids, empty + rinse, labels can be left on):
• bottles (all beverages)
• jars (jam, pickles, etc.)
Cardboard:
• flatten cardboard boxes (remove styrofoam and/or plastic)
• milk cartons (remove cap, rinse with water + flatten)
• juice boxes (remove straw)
Some non‐recyclable items:
•
styrofoam
•
paper towels
•
paper tissues
•
ceramics
•
china
•
light bulbs
•
mirrors
•
tupperware
Plastics (remove lids, empty + rinse, labels can be left on):
• beverage containers (milk jugs + pop bottles)
• condiment containers (ketchup, mustard, peanut butter, etc.)
• detergent + fabric softener bottles
• household cleaner bottles
• plastic bags (put together in one bag)
• yogurt containers
Year‐Round Toxic Waste Collection. For a searchable list of where to dispose
of items, please see the “Where do I take it?” list at http://tinyurl.com/wheredoitakeit.
Some items that are accepted at the Eco Centre:
• paints
• household batteries (please tape terminals)
• fluorescent bulbs/tubes
• inkjets, laser toners, • cell phones and small electronics
• paint thinners/strippers
• transmission fluid
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Open from Thursday to Monday, 10:30am to 6:30pm
at the Transfer Station
liquid cleaners
weed killers
bleach
ballasts
ammonia
cigarette lighters
detergents
gasoline
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
glues
hair colouring
herbicide
fungicide
fertilizer
pesticide
roofing Tar
degreaser
Bottle/Can Recycling
In 2010/2011, Heartland Beautification Committee ordered 30 bottle/can recycling basket
receptacles to be installed on area garbage cans (mainly downtown core, initially), to
encourage people to recycle their bottles/cans. In 2011/2012, the Environmental Action subcommittee applied for and received a substantial grant ($5492) from the TD Friends of the
Environment Foundation (TD FEF) to allow them to purchase an additional 70 recycling baskets,
which were installed on all other garbage cans around town in the spring of 2012. 1 or 2
baskets are installed per can (2 on high use cans). The public is free to collect recycled
materials from these baskets (for their own profit) and the visible and open baskets makes it
easy for people that collect the cans/bottles for the deposit income to access the cans/bottles.
To date, recyclables are observed to be in the baskets, but have never been observed to remain
full for an extended period of time and have never been seen to overflow.
Bottle/Can recycling baskets
Bottle/Can recycling baskets –
logos recognizing TD FEF Grant
An additional 20 recycling baskets were purchased in late 2013 to attach to new garbage bins
that are being installed along pathways around town. Some of the new garbage bins that are
being added are twinned, with one bin being a Blue recyclables bin (marked with blue lids and
recycling symbols). Some new Blue bins have been installed at high-use areas around town
(recreation centre, sports fields, etc.). Every site around town has at least a garbage can with a
bottle/can recycling container attached.
50
“Twinned” garbage/recyclables
garbage bins
Other Recycling
Programs or Initiatives
The IODE/Kinettes Annual
Rummage Sale (held in the
fall) involves the collection of
a huge amount of garage sale-type items, which are
sorted and displayed in the curling rink and adjacent Ag
Society and then sold over the course of a weekend. The
proceeds go towards funding community programs.
NEW in
2014/2015
Superfluity is a local “store” which takes in donated used
clothing and other items, sorts and organizes them (all
work is done by volunteers) and items are sold to the
public. All proceeds go to funding local community
programs.
You said it – We DID it! (and then some)
“Have you considered a re-use program or a
centre for clothing and household items?”
Superfluity takes in items of all sorts for resale into the community. The Canadian
Diabetes Association has many bins at the
Walmart parking lot and does a regular
collection around town. The IODE/Kinettes
Rummage Sale is very popular (recognized for
a Recycling Excellence award in 2013 for 70
years of action). The “Community Garage Sale
and Tailgate Sale” was also started in 2013.
Trash 2 Treasure and Take it or Leave It
Centre (coming in 2015) help find a home for
items
The Stettler Waste Management Authority attempted to
source funds for a Take It or Leave It Building at the
transfer station in 2014, but was not successful at that
time. However, in 2015, labour and cash donations WILL
allow this facility to be built in the summer of 2015, with
expected completion in Fall 2015. It will provide a year round location to bring giveaway items
(such as furniture) for people to come and take, rather than placing them in the landfill.
A Community Garage Sale and Tailgate Sale was started in 2013 and repeated in 2014. It was
carried out at the Stettler Recreation Centre, with dozens of tables booked. People can bring
garage sale items to a central location to sell. The event was carried out around Earth Week
and, in 2014, was held in conjunction with the Trash 2 Treasure Weekend.
A number of community or neighbourhood garage sales have started, and the Town of Stettler
developed a Community Block Party Guideline Policy (complete with application form) in
2014/2015. The town is in the process of investigating items such as portable fire pits for use by
block parties.
NEW in
2014/2015
LINK TO COMMUNITY BLOCK PARTY GUIDELINES AND FORM
51
NEW in
2014/2015
Trash 2 Treasure Initiative
In 2014, it was suggested that an avenue for disposing of unwanted but functional items be
created/implemented. Tied in with the Community Garage Sale and Tailgate Sale and the Earth
Day-related cleanup activities (e.g. spring lane cleanup), Trash 2 Treasure allowed residents to
give away unwanted items for free to anyone that wanted them. Using either “Free” signs or
T2T logo sheets (from the TOS website or cut off from flyers in the mail out, any giveaway items
were placed on the front lawns over 2 days of a weekend. Uncollected items could then be
moved to the back alleys for disposal during the town’s annual Spring Alley way Cleanup (the
next week). A number of signs were created to be inserted in sandwich board signs (reusable
for Walk ‘n Roll, T2T, snow removal, sewer flushing, etc.) and were placed around town.
Trash to Treasure logo and signage
53
Compost Bin Locations:
& Heartland Beautification “Green Committee”
2014 Spring Cleanup






51 Ave and 57 St
51 Ave and 45 St
40 Ave and 57 St in alley
41 Ave and 60 St in alley
41 Ave and 65 St in alley
51 Ave and 62 St in alley
“Keeping Stettler Clean and Green”
Park Cleanup– April 21-26
In recognition of Earth Day (April 22), this year’s park cleanup week will begin
on April 21. We extend an invitation to all individuals or groups to participate
in a one day park or green space cleanup. Please contact Parks and Leisure
Services office at 403-742-4411 to arrange for a day and a park or green
space. The Parks crew will gladly come and pick up any bags of garbage left at
a designated location.
Trash 2 Treasure - April 26-27
One person’s trash is another’s treasure! Set your unwanted but useable
items (furniture, household items, etc.) on your front lawn on these two days.
Other residents are welcome to take these items for FREE. Label your items
“Free” or use the “Trash 2 Treasure” label attached. Unclaimed items should
then be placed in the back alley for the annual lane clean up the following
week.
Lane Cleanup– April 29-May 2
The Town of Stettler will be removing refuse (appliances, unwanted household items, yard debris, etc.) from back alleys and disposing of such items. All
compost material must be bagged and labeled accordingly. Refuse such as
tree branches, wood and metal pieces must be reduced to 1.5m (5 feet) in
length. Please note that construction debris from renovations will not be
picked up. Residents are encouraged to remove any items from the back
alleys that they wish to keep. To ensure your unwanted refuse is picked up
PLEASE SORT ALL MATERIALS and label items “lane cleanup” and place near
garbage containers. Due to liability concerns, Town of Stettler employees
will not enter onto private property to assist in the removal of any items
marked for lane cleanup.
Please note: This is a courtesy service by the Town of Stettler and there will
be no call backs.
REMEMBER!




Mark your items for “Trash 2 Treasure” and place in front yard
Move unwanted items to back for
lane cleanup the following week
Mark all lane cleanup items and
SORT them
Remove any items you wish to keep
from lanes during lane cleanup.
Toxic waste items will not be picked
up and should be taken to the transfer station.
Lane Cleanup Schedule
Garbage Day
Lane Cleanup Day
Friday
—>
Tuesday
Tuesday
—>
Wednesday
Wednesday
—>
Thursday
Thursday
—>
Friday
Composting 1-2-3
Get Composting!
1.
Organics: Mix organic
Why compost?
material in a pile or in a

Organic materials are a valuable soil resource that are lost when thrown
into landfills.

Compost on your lawn or garden reduces your need to water and fertilize

Compost and mulch improve the texture of all types of soils and improve
plant health

Composting reduces by one-third the amount of garbage that a typical
household sends to the landfill

Organics in a landfill are too compacted to have sufficient oxygen to compost properly. As a result, these organics produce methane as they decompose, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
bin, alternating layers of
kitchen waste with dead
leaves/grass clippings
2.
Moisture: Keep the mixture moist, like a well
wrung sponge
3.
Air: Every couple of
weeks, poke holes in the
pile with a broom handle.
A brochure “BACKYARD COMPOSTING: GETTING STARTED” will be given out
at the Town of Stettler trade show booth and can also be found at
www.stettler.net.
Trade Show
April 11-13
Label your items with this cut out
Enter at the Town of Stettler trade show booth to
win a compost bin or a rain barrel. Also be sure to
collect your free reusable bags. (limited quantities
will be handed out each day)
A number of staff, volunteers and citizens wanted to spruce up the front of the Eco Centre. So
they did.
Beautified Eco Centre – flowers + toilet = magic
NEW in
2014/2015
Prior to fall 2013, the Annual Spring Cleanup took place throughout the month of April, where
toxic wastes (batteries and chemicals,) and household items (washers, dryers, electronics,)
were picked up by the Town staff and recycled or disposed of accordingly. Used oil could be
taken to the bottle depot. Town of Stettler and County of Stettler worked jointly to offer toxic
waste collection one day each spring and fall (at the County yards). Starting in the fall of 2013,
this service is available year round at the Stettler Eco Centre.
All electronics that are taken to the Stettler Transfer Station are picked up by a company called
Recycle-Logic Inc. from Red Deer. The electronics are disassembled and sorted into categories
(plastics, wires, glass, etc.) and sent to designated re-processing plants in North America.
Concrete that is leftover from construction sites and highway maintenance gets collected and
crushed into gravel, used in Town projects, such as sidewalk replacement, street repairs, etc.
In August 2014, the recycled concrete and asphalt removed from road reconstruction was
crushed into a reusable granular product that the Town uses to stabilize trench excavations in
lieu of crushed gravel. The budget for this project was $150,000.
Concrete recycling at the transfer station
A commercial business’s recycling container
Businesses are encouraged to connect with collection companies to recycle. Many businesses
have initiated recycling programs, using green boxes for paper products. The Environmental
Action committee is working on increasing business recycling.
(See Recycling newsletter insert – following pages)
NEW in
2014/2015
Link to Recycling Newsletter& Business Solutions
56
Recycling
Thank you to the many Stettler businesses who are already recycling! For
Businesses
And
Apartment
Complexes
RECYCLING CAN BE GOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS Why Recycle?
1) Recycling can cut your garbage costs. It costs significantly less for waste companies to haul recyclables than to haul garbage since the hauler can usually sell recyclable materials but has to pay to dispose of waste in a landfill. How can you increase your
business or apartment building
recycling?
These private recycling companies provide recycling bins and hauling for businesses in the Stettler area. CanPak Environmental Inc. Mark Pedersen 403‐373‐1364 [email protected] 2) Recycling saves valuable materials from being lost forever in a landfill. 3) Recycling reduces our need to use new raw materials and the energy to produce them. 4) Recycling saves expensive space in our landfill, funded by our community. 5) Your customers will appreciate that you recycle. Waste Management 403‐343‐8844 1‐800‐665‐1898 [email protected] No room? Consider sharing a bin with a neighboring business. Any apartment complex that sets up a recycling collection bin will receive 1 free Green Box per unit from the Town of Stettler. Contact Lee Penner @ 403‐742‐4411. What can a private hauler recycle
for you? (may vary)
Cardboard, Paper, Metal, Glass, Plastic Containers What can you recycle at the
Stettler Transfer Station yourself?
Electronics and cell phones Inkjet printer cartridges Laser toner cartridges (not tubes), Fluorescent tubes and CFL bulbs, Batteries (ends taped for safe transportation) Paint and spray paint containers. Did you know?
There is a list called “Where do I take it?” containing over 500 items and where to recycle or responsibility dispose of them in the Stettler area. Check out www.stettler.net under “Quick Links” to “Where do I take it?” or go directly to: http://www.stettler.net/admin/contentx/default.cfm?PageId=16284 The largest filler of our landfill is cardboard, something which is totally recyclable. 9599 kilograms of aluminum 40 tons of plastic 1,000,000 liters of oil 70% of office
waste is
recyclable?
About 30 million inkjet and toner cartridges are tossed each year in Canada; that’s 25000 per business hour! For every 100,000 used cartridges recycled, we can save: A computer circuit board contains copper, gold, silver, platinum and palladium, as well as lead. These materials don’t belong in a landfill! One tonne of municipal garbage takes up 1.5‐2.5 cubic metres of space in a landfill. Recycling is a much better alternative to filling a landfill. WE ARE A RECYCLING COMMUNITY!
It is easy for your business to increase your recycling! Contact a private recycler. You could cut garbage costs and help the planet. Town of Stettler Recycling Information
Recycle for the
benefit of others:
Use local thrift stores
to recycle clothing,
furniture, and kitchen
items.
Help Us Collect More
March 9, 2011
Where does the recycling go?
tion comes out of the waste stream from
Stettler curb side pick up and Town facility collection bins.
Sporting equipment
can be recycled at
Sport Central in Edmonton . Visit
www.sportcentral.org
and it goes to a good
cause!
Eye glasses can be
recycled at the library
as well as the optometrist and the Stettler
Funeral Home.
In Stettler Alone:
16-20 tons per
collection comes
out of the waste
stream from Stettler curbside
Check out our tour on www.stettler.net
Concrete Recycling
Can Pak Environmental collects recyclables daily from various places throughout
Central Alberta, including Stettler, and
hauls the material to a sorting facility in
Edmonton.
Two Stettler Councilors and Administration toured this state of the art facility on
February 17. The facility operates day
and night, sorting materials into bails
and then ships it to the highest bidders in
Canada, the United States and even
China.
Concrete and asphalt waste is collected at
the transfer
site, crushed,
and used as a
base product in
many town
projects like
pathways and
parking lot aggregate requirements. The
crushing that was done in 2010 accounted
for 17000 tons of material saved from
land filling as well as from the non renewable local gravel quarries.
Mark Peterson from Can Pak reported
that approximately 16-20 tons per collec-
pickup
17000 tons of
concrete and asphalt was saved
from the landfill in
2010
6-7 tons of compost are saved
from the landfill
per week during
the summer
www.stettler.net
Compost
Collected from 7 bin sites
throughout Stettler, and
at the transfer station,
this program provides
useful product for park
rehabilitation in Stettler.
Can Pak Environmental
picks up the compost
bins in town locations
Please recycle this newsletter.
twice per week and reports that 6-7 tons of
product are brought to
the transfer station for
composting per week
during the summer
months.
Did you know?
Businesses & Apartments
Green boxes are
available at the
Town Office for
$10.00. Put one
in your
office today!
Keeping Stettler Clean and Green!
How can YOU help?
Recycling Reduces
Reduces
Saves Precious
Landfills
Contamination
Resources
Paper, including
Old computer monitors
Recycling newspaper,
newspaper are a major
contain as much as 8lbs
cardboard and junk mail can
filler of modern
of lead.
save trees from
being cut down
landfills.
Fact: Each ton of
recycled paper saves 17
trees
Fact: 40% of petroleum consumption can
be reduced through recycling plastic
Fact: 95% of energy
required for making
aluminum products
from raw material can
be saved by recycling
used aluminum
Business owners
and apartment
managers are encouraged to contact
local waste companies to set up recycling bins for their
residents. Adding
a recycling program can cut the
cost of waste disposal and help save our environment.
Private Recycling Companies
Can Pak Environmental
TOWN OF STETTLER
Parks and Leisure Services
6202-44 ave
Stettler, AB T0C 2L1
Phone: 403-742-4411
Waste Management
Mark Pederson
403-373-1364
[email protected]
Chelsea Chambers
403-723-3588
[email protected]
LL Waste Removal
3R Management
Louis Mailer
403-742-5655
403-742-3007
Each year, a coniferous tree that has been
donated by a town resident (removal was
required anyways) is cut and placed as the winter
Main street Christmas tree. After its use as a
decorated tree, it is disposed of.
NEW in
2014/2015
The Town of Stettler collects Christmas trees at
the transfer station and then chips them and
uses them as mulch for shrub beds.
You said it – We DIDN’T do it!
“...it was disturbing to see wood waste and
large branches being burned ... because you
are already chipping Christmas trees, it would
make sense to collect the wood waste and
once or twice a year, have a tub grinder come
in and grind everything into mulch...”
We investigated the possibility of having the
town do chipping of wood waste – it was
determined that past efforts had experienced
a logistical nightmare that was not feasible to
be completed
Main Street Christmas Tree
You said it – We are WORKING ON it!
“Most of the branches are burnt; continue to plan other options like
wood chipping rather than burning.”
Decreasing and eventually eliminating burning has been brought
forward to the Stettler Waste Management Authority as a goal to
address. The first step will be to monitor what is being burned to
eliminate toxins.
“Where do I take? A-Z List”
The HBC Environmental Action sub-committee created
a comprehensive reference list of where to recycle or responsibly dispose of items. This list is
posted as a searchable directory on the Town of Stettler website. The current list contains over
500 items and was completed at the same time as when the Stettler Eco Centre opened. It
continues to be maintained and updated as needed.
Link to “Where Do I Take It? A-Z List”
School Recycling-related Programs
NEW in
2014/2015
The recycling program in the school teaches children the importance of our ecological
footprint. The milk cartons, juice boxes, and paper products are all recycled, and students have
started instilling habits into their own homes as well, including composting. Students in the
Grade 5 classes save the money earned from collected recyclable containers and purchase trees
that they then plant in local parks. The public school division is working to improve their overall
school / commercial recycling program, to reduce their waste. In 2015, the Grade 4 classes are
collectively being recognized/awarded with a Recycling Excellence Award for the DECADES of
work in this area.
The Stettler Elementary School also had Litterless Lunch Days, where students were asked to
bring their lunches in reusable, washable containers, and eat nutrient rich products.
62
A large portion of Grade 5 science fair projects are ecologically minded, with experiments like
plant germination, water quality, solar power, and wind energy. The school also had a walking
school bus, where parents, in conjunction with the Local Health Authority, escorted large
groups of children to school safely. Grade 5 students participate in a provincial “Environment
Minister for the Day” initiative, where students write essays outlining how they would affect
the environment. Winners become Environment Minister for the day.
“Do-it-yourself” home compost bins have been set up in a number of individual classrooms to
allow students to become more familiar with composting and vermiculture.
NEW in
2014/2015
The Stettler Middle School participated in a “Walk ‘n’ Roll” competition in October. The class
who had the most students who walked or biked to school in a week were awarded a pizza
lunch.
On Arbor Day, the schools send home a tree with all grade one students, and the stones at
Memorial Tree Park are engraved in memory of loved ones.
Local businesses as well as the schools take part in Lights Out Canada; they go the day with
minimum artificial light.
You said it – We DIDN’T do it!
Stettler Waste Management Authority
“Consider, if returning used batteries, to put
This group is made up of representatives from both town and
e.g.
10 batteries together with your name in
county and other municipalities within the area. They are
a bag, and raffle a prize once in a while…”
concerned with the running of the local waste transfer
Our
battery recycling volumes continue to
stations and undertake initiatives related to waste
increase through the existing promotions
management in the area. The Stettler Waste Management
in utility bills, on websites and social
Authority (SWMA) has implemented a number of recycling
media. In 2012 (first year) average battery
projects in the last four years, which has led to a significant
recycling collections were 83
decrease in landfilled waste and improved recycling and
pounds/month. In 2015, we are averaging
waste handling. SWMA added a Recycling Representative
158 pounds/month.
to their Board in 2013. In their 2015 Strategic Plan, SWMA
identified as a top priority to increase diversion from our landfills by fostering and encouraging
"Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle". The Recycling representative (Grace Fix) was a finalist in the Earth
Day “Hometown Heroes” Program
SWMA started a battery recycling program in October 2012 for all types of batteries. There are
11 convenient collection sites located in the Town and County, including one box each at No
Frills, Sobeys and Home Hardware stores, as well as one box at each of the
three public school complex sites (Public schools – Wm E Hay High School;
Catholic school; Outreach school; Byemoor School), the Public library and three
transfer stations (Stettler, Erskine and Botha). In the first 8 months of the
program, over 850 pounds of batteries were collected and recycled, hundreds
more pounds collected since then. The program averaged over 80lbs/month in
NEW in
2014/2015
63
Battery recycling signage
at Transfer Station
“Bulb-Eater” machine for handling all fluorescent tubes and bulbs
(including CFBs)
the first year, with an average of 158lbs/month in 2015. Other sites around
town (e.g. government offices, etc.) also have battery collection systems in
place.
Solar lighting being investigated for part of the Stettler Transfer Site.
The Stettler Transfer Station received a new building to deal with specific
problem waste materials. The “Stettler Eco Centre” building was completed in
September 2013. The facility allows recycling or collection for responsible
disposal of:
1. Fluorescent tubes and compact fluorescent bulbs (CFBs) will be
recycled using a fluorescent “Bulb-Eater”, which was purchased with a TD Friends of the
Environment Fund grant ($6442.52). The machine allows the safe collection and
disposal of the hazardous materials in the CFBs.
2. Inkjet and laser toner cartridges (recycle)
3. Cell phones (recycle)
4. Household Hazardous Waste – any item that displays these warning symbols:
It is reactive
It is corrosive
It is flammable
It is toxic
This will allow year-round drop off of these items as opposed to the previous Toxic
Roundups held twice a year. Items are transported to Swan Hills for safe disposal.
5. All paint and paint containers (recycle latex, safe disposal of oil-based)
Recycling containers are present at three area Transfer
Stations, with containers being expanded to include
containers at all other area Transfer Stations. Additionally,
magnetic signage has been placed on the current recycling
bins at the three Transfer Stations to encourage people to
recycle and to sort their recycling appropriately, to
facilitate handling of it.
NEW in
2014/2015
In 2014, SWMA attempted to source funds to build a Take
It Or Leave It building, to allow area residents to leave
reusable items like furniture for others to take, but was
unsuccessful. However, in 2015, thanks to significant cash
and labour donations from local businesses and charities,
this facility will be built by Fall 2015, at the Stettler Transfer
Station.
You said it – We’ve ALMOST DONE it!
“...Consider a “take it, use it” facility for furniture ...”
Stettler Waste Management Authority has approved this facility,
with construction starting Summer 2015. Building is funded with a
donation of labour by METALEX Metal Buildings, and by generous
cash donations from Superfluity Store, TransCanada Corp and ATCO
Electric. It should open in Fall 2015
64
Magnetic recycling signage at Transfer Station
Take it Or Leave It Centre –
Official Ground breaking
Water Conservation / Water Management
Water Conservation is a priority to Stettler’s Public. A Rain Barrel Program was initiated in
2010. People can purchase a rain barrel for $60, and most of the proceeds go to local not-forprofit groups. The program has been very successful, with well
over 200 sold in six years.
As part of a Water Smart Program, homeowners are encouraged
to water early morning or late in the evening. Water conservation
Green Tips are published regularly
Link to Water Conservation Information
Stettler’s Water Treatment Plant is a regional plant that supplies
water to the town and surrounding communities (essentially to
the Saskatchewan border). 40% of the water produced serves
regional customers. In 2012, the plant completed a $21 million
upgrade to improve treatment process from a traditional sand
filter system to a membrane filter system. This included a switch
from chlorine to chloramines. Chloramines provide a safe, stable
disinfection of the water when distributing water long distances.
Rain barrels
This switch was completed in May 2011. Also included in the
plant upgrades was the construction of the raw water reservoir. The raw water reservoir
provides an emergency supply of water and a more consistent quality of water. As the river
water undergoes seasonal quality changes, the raw water ponds enable the plant to stop
drawing from the river and treat water directly from the outdoor reservoir, helping to reduce
chemical used during the treatment process.
In 2015, the water reservoir was sealed with a custom fit hdpe liner at a cost of $175,000. The
liner was chosen in lieu of complete replacement as the reservoir was structurally sound,
however had leakage from the floor. At the same time a mixer was added inside the reservoir
to help keep the water circulating, thereby reducing stagnation and increasing water turnover
in the reservoir. Using this innovative technology has extended the life of the existing reservoir
by 25+ years.
NEW in
2014/2015
65
Filtration / Treatment systems in
upgraded Water Treatment Plant
Water Treatment Plant
Stettler’s waste water treatment ponds consist of a traditional lagoon system and also include
160 acres of wetlands. These man-made riparian areas are home to many different waterfowl.
During 2011, volunteers planted 300 trees to help reforest this area. The Town of Stettler
received a grant to construct an additional storage cell at the Sewage Lagoons. This was
anticipated to increase storage to a population of 12,000. A second phase of construction
included installing aeration piping into the first treatment cells.
The purpose of aeration is to get better treatment as well as reduce the odors produced from
the lagoons. As the lagoons are located NW of the town, and prevailing winds are from the NW,
this will provide a better quality of life for residents. The estimated cost of the new storage
lagoon and the aeration system is $1.4 million. After several years delay due to weather
(flooding, etc.), the sewage lagoons are currently being remediated and are expected to be
commissioned September 2015.
NEW in
2014/2015
Aerial view of waste water
treatment wetlands
66
Raw Water Reservoirs
Duhamel
New
Norway
Bawlf
CAMROSE
Legend
COUNTY
Population
Kelsey
Rosalind
Edberg
Ferintosh
10
50
100
Existing Pipe
Phase 1 Construction 2008
Meeting
Creek
500
To be built with future grants
Bashaw
Donalda
Alberta Border
Clive
Tees Mirror
LACOMBE
COUNTY
Alix
Rochon White
Sands Sands
1,000
Red
Willow
Nevis
PAINTEARTH
Erskine Stettler
Botha
Gadsby Halkirk
COUNTY
Castor
Fleet
Coronation
Big
Valley
STETTLER
COUNTY
Byemoor
Veteran
Endiang
Consort
Monitor
Kirriemuir
Altario
SPECIAL AREA NO.4
Compeer
µ
Sharing Water
Map produced April 2008
Intended for general information only
The Town of Stettler is not responsible
for any errors or omissions.
Datum: NAD 83
Projection: UTM Zone 12
in the
Stettler Regional Service Area
1:1,000,000
0
15
30
Kilometers
60
Storm water management/ canal program system – the Red Willow creek runs to the Battle
River collecting all of Stettler’s storm water. Numerous storm retention ponds throughout
Stettler provide extra flood control in the case of major rainfall and runoff. The creek is
occasionally dredged and the water level is kept at 18 inches to keep bull rushes from slowing
water flow.
Because of flat land throughout the Town, all of the new subdivisions include storm retention
ponds that contain water elements, water plants, etc.
Link to the Water Management Information
The Town of Stettler offers a toilet rebate program, so that homeowners can replace toilets in
homes that were built before January 1st 2007. The list of approved low-flush toilets can be
found at the Town office. A 13-20L toilet can be replaced with a 3L or a 3L/6L dual flush and
receive a $50 or $100 rebate. Well over 200 have been replaced in the program to date.
Link to Toilet Replacement Program
Town’s Sanitary System – Sump Pumps
Residents are reminded that Bylaw #1102 PROHIBITS the discharge of surface and ground water
into the sanitary system via weeping tile, roof drains or sump pumps. Water must be
discharged on the ground outside the building and within the property. To help prevent
flooding in others or your home, residents should contact a plumber to ensure that they are in
compliance.
Waste Reduction Initiatives
Over the past 5 years, a number of waste reduction campaigns have been initiated by the
Environmental Action sub-committee
BRING YOUR OWN BAG (BYO Bag) campaign – Awesome on-going initiative
The mayor proclaimed a week in March of 2012 to be
"Bring Your Own Bag Week" to launch this initiative. This
was promoted in the Stettler Independent newspaper
with a photo of the Mayor, Heartland Beautification
Committee members, and representatives from all 4
Stettler schools.
“Bring Your Own Bag Week” declaration in 2012
At the time, Stettler Elementary students did the art work
on 200 "Did you BYO BAG?" posters that 111
stores/businesses agreed to display inside and/or outside their buildings prior to and following
the campaign. Since the initial campaign push, the posters and signs have been updated
regularly and remain in place in most stores in town.
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BYO Bag artwork posters up in local grocery stores
BYO Bag signage in local grocery stores
For the initial year, Sobeys and Sean's No Frills and the Stettler Recreation Centre displayed
"Did you BYO Bag?" slogans on their exterior store signs. Wal-Mart promoted it on their instore intercom. Q93.3, the local radio station, provided free promotional coverage of the BYO
BAG campaign. Promotional information was published in the Town of Stettler, County of
Stettler and Stettler Regional Board of Trade newsletters and on their websites.
The main stores reported a significant reduction in plastic bag usage over the 3 week period (1
week prior to and after BYOBag week) - 2012
Sobeys usage – 3 weeks Feb. (45,000 bags) vs. 3 weeks March (36,000) – 20% decrease
No Frills usage– 3 weeks Feb. (8476 bags) vs. 3 weeks March (7226) – 15% decrease
Walmart – 3 weeks Feb. (27,000 bags) vs. 3 weeks March (25,000) – 7.5% decrease
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NEW in
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Since completion of the week in 2012, most stores have kept the reminder signs in place and
signs have been replaced/refreshed annually. A number of stores have done campaigns to
reduce bag use on their own, using the BYOB signage.
Sean's No Frills, Sobey's, ID Apparel, Walmart and TD Bank have donated
hundreds (500+ annually) of re-usable shopping bags that are given out
at the Town of Stettler booth at the annual Trade Show each year. BYO
Bag sticky pads were distributed at the trade show and various events
throughout the year.
Regular daily BYO Bag promotions are planned and take place throughout the year.
All 4 schools developed their own 'no plastic bags' version of "Did you BYO BAG?" campaigns in
their schools, from posters to Litterless Lunches.
The Environmental Action sub-committee continues to work with the Stettler Regional Board of
Trade to continue bag reduction campaigns.
Fruit / Vegetable Rescue Initiative
The goal is to connect residents who have extra fruit or vegetable produce from their gardens
with those who might like to use it so that great food does not go to waste. This program runs
from July to September. Initially it was promoted in the weekly Green Tips in the local
newspaper, on Q93.3 radio, and in the Town of Stettler and Stettler Board of Trade newsletters.
It was then promoted via posts on Facebook's "Stettler Buy and Sell". Residents were also
encouraged to donate extra produce to the Stettler and District Food Bank. The Stettler
Volunteer Centre has offered to serve as a connecting point for residents who do not use the
Internet. In 2013 and in 2014, the initiative was promoted in the original ways, but with the
expansion that each month, there was an opportunity for people with extra produce to come to
the Community Gardens to share during the Community Garden work bee (the third Thursday
of each month). Starting in 2014, a fall Fruit/Vegetable Rescue event was held in conjunction
with the Fall Seed Exchange at the P&H Elevator in late September.
Other Environmental Initiatives
Over the past several years, a number of different designs have
been looked at to provide cigarette disposal options in public
spaces. Some debate about how the installation relates to
existing non-smoking bylaws has delayed installation, however, 2
cigarette receptacles will be installed in public parking lots on a
trial basis in 2015. This project includes recycling of the butts.
Some of Stettler’s parks have been turned back to natural, and information signage surrounding
West Stettler Park was updated in 2009.
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NEW in
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You said it – We DID & DIDN’T do it!
Bike Racks / Increased Biking & Walking and Idling
Reduction Initiatives
“We suggest that you continue to work on
energy savings with transportation. Perhaps
the time is right to install an Anti-idling bylaw.”
In 2011, the Environmental Action sub-committee
identified a lack of bicycle racks in the downtown core,
which was restricting bicycle use in the community. In
2012, they applied for and received a significant grant
($3400) to purchase 13 bicycle racks to be installed all
along Main Street at the new and existing crosswalk areas
(plus one to be installed at the post office). They were
installed over the summer/fall of 2012 and spring 2013.
In accordance to Stettler’s preference for
awareness over bylaws, the EA subcommittee investigated anti-idling
awareness initiatives (as opposed to
bylaws). A significant amount of work has
been done on awareness signage and
campaigns, as well as on walk/bike signage
and campaigns. (see below)
See Following Page for Proposed
Bike Rack Locations Map
Bike rack design
Walk ‘n’ Roll Initiative
For the past three years, the EA
committee (and other community
partners – e.g. Stettler Wellness
Network, Walk n Roll committee, Stettler Traffic Safety Committee) has been
working on and implementing plans to increase biking/walking through an
awareness campaign, as well as increased signage, to encourage residents to
make use of walking/biking paths and reduce vehicle use. Walk ‘n Roll was
implemented during the summer of 2014, with signs indicating distance to walk
or bike to major facilities or landmarks in the community installed at key
junctions on the walking/biking pathways. 4 more signs were added in 2015.
Walk ‘n Roll month was declared first in August 2014 (repeated in 2015) and Walk
‘n Roll was promoted at a number of events. Residents, businesses, organizations
and other groups can register themselves during Walk ‘n Roll month. Over 50
groups registered with at least 1 participant in August 2014. Participants could
put a “We are Walk ‘n Roll Participants” sign in their business window. A
discount is being offered to attendees of other events if they arrive on foot or
bicycle. Additionally, people that walk or bike to events such as the Trade Show
and Summer Concerts in the Park (Wednesdays), will be entered in special draws
for prizes. Committee members randomly
walk/bike around town giving out prizes
to those that are walk/bike commuting
and “bike helmet coupon tickets” (for
local hardware store) to those without
helmets.
NEW in
2014/2015
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Anti-Idling / Idling Reduction Awareness Campaign
In late 2013 and early 2014, the EA subcommittee undertook an anti-idling or idling reduction
awareness campaign. The initial attempt in 2012 to get buy-in from the school divisions (public
and Catholic) was unsuccessful, but a second round of discussions resulted in positive results.
Clearview School Division (public) reviewed its bus idling policies to see if there were ways that
it could safely reduce idling (in the cold climate). Student members in Eco Clubs at the Stettler
Middle School and Christ King School undertook a survey of vehicle idling in front of the Middle
School and the Catholic Schools over three dates in December (during the pre-afternoon
dismissal hours). They counted vehicles, measured idling time for each and determined if a
person was present in the vehicle. The campaign produced & installed 1 each of 4 Idle-Free
signs at the 4 schools (SES, SMS, Wm E Hay, Christ King Catholic).
Slogans for the Idle-Free signs were:
Stettler Elementary School -"Kids Breathe Here, Please Turn off the Key"
Stettler Middle School - "Be Idle-Free, Please Turn off the Key"
Wm. E. Hay “Idling is Fuelish, Please Turn it off"
Christ King School - "Spare our Air, Please Turn it off"
After installation of the signs, committee members created and handed out 250 “Trying to Be
Idle Free” stickers, talking to idling drivers and handed out info sheets. They also put up posters
at the schools and provided information to school newsletters to go out to parents.
In the fall of 2014, the owners of Sean’s No Frills, Sobey’s, Stettler Mall, and Canadian Tire gave
enthusiastic permission for large “Trying to Be Idle-Free” signs to be posted in their parking lots.
NEW in
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NEW in
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Several hundred shopping cart tokens (on key chains) were
produced and distributed to visitors to the Trade Show. Stickers
have been put up in windows of many businesses around town.
Town Environmental Initiatives
Stettler Parks and Leisure, alongside Government of Alberta Environment and Sustainable
Resource Development, has hosted an Annual Recreational Fishing Day (now called “Kids can
Fish”) at West Stettler Park, on the second weekend in July annually (2015 = 7th year). People
can fish without a license and learn catch and release practices as well as safe fish handling.
Draw prizes are given out as an incentive for people to come out! Loaner rods are provided.
Catch & Release Sign in West Stettler Park
Recreational Fishing Day
Conservation
Some businesses have taken the initiative to conserve and reduce consumption of resources.
The local Walmart store has implemented a reduced lighting program during summer months,
to save energy. The recently completed and opened (2013) ATCO Electric Regional Service
Centre is built to reduce building energy requirements through high efficiency HVAC systems
and motion lighting systems. The parking lots and roof captures all rain water, which is reused
in the primary wash bays of the centre. A green roof was planted over the conference rooms,
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which captures moisture and conserves energy. The large gravel and paved areas are off-set by
the planting of hundreds of trees and shrubs. In 2014, Burmac Mechanical installed solar panels
onto their office building. This has resulted in a 15% reduction in their grid electrical
consumption. The present panels alone run the air conditioning and the rest of the time their
electricity goes into Burmac's general system. They are so pleased with the results that they are
hoping to install more and have the entire front covered in panels. Burmac is proving that
alternative energy sources are viable and are showing leadership in our community. They are
the 2015 business recipient of the Recycling Excellence Award.
ATCO Electric Service Centre – greened landscape & green roof
ATCO Electric Service Centre – greened landscape & green roof
NEW in
2014/2015
Burmac Mechanical – solar panels on renovated store front
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Stettler Recreation Centre
Rec Centre Zamboni
The Ice Arenas use a brine cooler (original technology was developed in Stettler), bringing in
outside air when the temperature cools to below -10 to cool the brine. The compressors don’t
run during late December, January, and February, a huge energy saving. The ice plant
computer raises the temperature of the ice at night and during low use times to save energy
and money. Ice is normally at -8°C (18°F) for a hockey game or skating event, and the computer
allows the ice to be raised to -4°C (25°F) during low use times. Lights are turned on 15 minutes
before practices and games, and are shut off immediately after cleaning has been finished. In
2011/2012, much of the pump system was renovated.
Exterior arena fan for natural cooling
Cub Scouts learn about SRC’s brine cooler and how it saves energy
During the summer when the arena surfaces are not in use
lights are off and doors are kept shut to lessen the amount of heat coming in or escaping.
When the staff put new ice in, the white ice paint used is environmentally friendly.
The Stettler Recreation Centre is minimally lit during slow or off times (e.g. evenings), adjusted
according to need.
Public Works / Town
The new Town of Stettler offices are shared with Clearview Public School Division (completed in
2009). The building represents energy efficient technology (such as sunset windows, dual flush
toilets, etc.) The green space around the base of the building demonstrates the preferred
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standard for main street commercial buildings. As a result, the new Registry office building
was constructed in a similar fashion.
Panoramic view of north end of Main Street, featuring Town of Stettler Building and Registry Office
The Public Works department always carpools, and use radios to find out if other crews need
things from various locations around town. The buddy system has worked very well in the past
and will continue to be used in the future.
The no smoking bylaw is enforced.
All traffic lights have been converted to LED lights to save energy. New crosswalks are solar
powered LED. Streetlights are not LED, but are on timers to save energy.
Town Council identified the need to increase pedestrian safety and visibility in the community
and in the capital budget allowed $42,000 for the following improvements:
1. Purchase two sets of solar powered crosswalk lights to be installed at crosswalks that
cross roads without traffic control. The town currently owns three sets of solar powered lights,
however new technology has modified the cross walks to an LED rapid flash light, compared to
the traditional flashing amber light. The change improves visibility for drivers and increases
driver yield rates by 73% above the traditional beacon style. The sets have been ordered and
are expected to be installed September on 44 Avenue.
2. Install speed detection signs that can be relocated to roads that have high pedestrian use
to make drivers aware of their speeds. The test location chosen for 2015 was Recreation Road
adjacent to the ball diamonds, skate park and water park.
NEW in
2014/2015
Flashing
crosswalk
design
Solar Crosswalk lights
Speed detectors
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Approximately 7 years ago, a solar light was installed in
West Stettler Park as a trial. It was not satisfactory. In
2012/2013, further investigation was carried out to
determine if further solar lighting (e.g. in the parks) is
feasible and a good option. Parks staff made
connections with other communities in Central Alberta
to find out their experiences and what models they
would recommend. Committee members and town staff
continue to consider and watch for better solar lighting
options (with this item remaining on annual plans for the
EA subcommittee until completion).
NEW in
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You said it – We are WORKING ON it!
“Endeavour to have all local events
completely ‘green events’, with actions such
as all vendor plates and utensils being
completely recyclable, all food waste
recycled and bottled water sales substituted
with personal water bottle refill stations”
We are attempting to encourage this sort
of thing at meetings and events, using real
plates and utensils at committee meetings,
using pitchers of water and glasses, etc.
At the Canada Day Celebration in 2015,
cupcakes were served on their own, rather
than the traditional slices of cake on plates,
with plastic forks and serviettes. The
amount of waste and labour to clean up
was SIGNIFICANTLY reduced.