Illegal dumping is a problem that continues to persist in the qathet region. Many items that are illegally dumped actually fit into free ‘Extended Producer Responsibility’ (EPR) recycling programs. Items such as bulky white appliances (stoves, washing machines, etc.), small and large electronics, paint, hazardous materials, propane tanks, and many metal items all can be disposed of for free in Powell River. Please view the Waste Wise Guide for a comprehensive list of accepted materials.

If you spot illegally dumped trash, please make a report through R.A.P.P. (or call 1-877-952-7277 or #7277 on the TELUS Mobility Network).

If you have a mobile phone, consider installing and using the free TrashOut phone application to help us track local dump spots. Be sure to take the photo of the trash in the app to automatically record the GPS coordinates. Once you upload the photo onto the app, the coordinates will become a pinpoint on the map and you can then fill out a quick report. The map can be used by local governments, community groups or members of the public who want to participate in cleanup efforts. Anyone can view the map and hover over pinpoints to see the details that have been recorded. Once cleaned, the sites can be removed.

Groups and individuals who identify an illegal dumpsite on a trail, beach, or backwoods can apply for a voucher for free disposal at the Augusta transfer station. Fill in this application form and submit it to administration@qathet.ca OR drop off a hard copy at #105 – 4675 Marine Avenue, Powell River, BC.

Each year qathet Regional District hosts a one-day community clean up event. Residents can clean up litter from illegal dumping sites, trails, public spaces, and beaches, and drop off the collected materials for free. The 2024 Trash Bash will happen this fall and will take place at the new Resource Recovery Center facility.

Residents can drop off stray marine debris for free at the Ocean Plastic Depot. The depot is temporarily set up at Augusta Recyclers and will move to the Resource Recovery Centre when the site opens in 2024. View the sorting guide to familiarize yourself on what is accepted and how to sort it. To access the depot, please set up a first-time user orientation by contacting administration@qathet.ca

The depot is available to small scale shoreline clean ups by residents or community groups. Materials from large scale residential, commercial, and industrial cleanups are not accepted at the depot and should be arranged directly with the Ocean Legacy Foundation.