Here are the hours and closures for the upcoming Easter Weekend (April 18-21) for all RDCK offices, landfills, transfer stations, gated recycling depots, and recreation complexes. Wishing you all a relaxing long weekend!
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is undertaking an extensive 9-1-1 improvement project to align with the federal move to the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911) program rolling out in 2025. The project focuses on the improvement of GIS address and roads data throughout the RDCK. The NG911 system will replace the legacy analogue infrastructure with IP-based technology. This will create a faster, more resilient system that will eventually allow digital information (e.g., voice, real-time text, and eventually video calling) to flow seamlessly from the public to 9-1-1.
All residences in the RDCK require a civic address that is registered in the RDCK database to ensure emergency services can quickly find you and potential evacuations are efficient. The RDCK is asking residents to be proactive and to confirm they have a correct address within the RDCK database. Residents should check their addresses using the RDCK Web Map. If your address does not appear in the web map, 9-1-1 does not have your address and you should apply for one!
Check the Civic Addressing page on the RDCK website to see if your address meets the requirements. If it does not you will qualify for a free address change. Use the Civic Address Application Form to apply for a free address or address change between April and June 2025 and state ‘NG911’ as your reason for the request.
“In our business, seconds can save lives, so it is imperative residents throughout the RDCK ensure they have a registered address within our database,” said RDCK Regional Fire Chief Tristan Fehst.
The RDCK may be reaching out to residents to initiate address changes where required. Visit www.rdck.ca/911Services for more details on the initiative. If you have any further questions, please the RDCK GIS department at maps@rdck.bc.ca.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 26 for the annual Trash to Treasure event!
In celebration of Earth Day week, the RDCK and the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary are promoting the Trash to Treasure event again this year.
This is a great opportunity to reduce the waste going into our landfills and to find treasures from your neighbours.
To participate, simply create a sign or use the sign available here to let people know the items are free for treasure hunters! Please make sure all remaining items are removed by 4:00 pm, Saturday, April 16 in order to keep your streets clean.
NOTE: Please only place items in front of your own home – do not dump on street corners or in front of other properties.
RDCK Adopts Five-Year Financial Plan
The Board of Directors adopted the 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw, an annual requirement which must be completed by end of March each year. This year’s budget will see a 5.7% average increase in property taxes for RDCK residents, although this is highly variable depending on the Electoral Area or Municipality the resident lives in.
The RDCK hosted nine hybrid public information sessions (in-person and online), one Special Budget Meeting, plus individual budgets were discussed at all commission and committee meetings over the last two months, which allowed the public in our various sub regions to comment and provide feedback on the five-year Financial Plan.
Residents are encouraged to review the financial plan and reach out to staff or Directors with questions.
Electoral Area I Official Community Plan
The Board adopted the new Electoral Area I Sentinel Mountain Official Community Plan (OCP) Bylaw No. 2821. The OCP sets out the vision and objectives of a community to guide future development, land use management, character of the community, protection of environmentally sensitives areas, and investment in infrastructure. The plan is the primary tool that provides policy direction that informs the RDCK Board and other government agencies in making land use decisions.
Read Electoral Area I Official Community Plan
FireSmart Program
The Board directed staff to apply to the 2025 Union of BC Municipalities Community Resiliency Investment FireSmart Community Funding Supports program for $1,700,000 for the delivery of the 2025 and 2026 FireSmart Programs.
The funding will be used to hire a full-time temporary FireSmart Coordinator, six seasonal Wildfire Mitigation Specialists, deliver public education and outreach, conduct limited fuel treatments on RDCK owned lands (crown land fuel treatment under this grant is funded through the Wildfire Risk Reduction Program and administered through the Ministry of Forests), update/renewal of the Area H Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (CWRP), deliver the Neighbourhood Recognition Program, administer the rebate program, and the delivery of home ignition zone assessments under the Wildfire Mitigation Program (previously known as the Home Partners Program).
Under 2024 funding the program set a record for the number of assessments provided with 528 home ignition zone assessments. As well, 27 neighbourhoods were recognized for their work to reduce their community to wildland fire, the CWRP’s are being updated in Electoral Areas A, B, C, G, J, K and the Villages of Nakusp and Salmo, and in total, 115 rebates were issued.
Purchase of Five Fire Truck Apparatus
The Board awarded the purchase of five Fire Truck Apparatus to Fort Garry Fire Trucks (Winnipeg, MB). The five trucks will be allocated to the Balfour-Harrop Fire Department, Canyon-Lister Fire Department, North Shore Fire Department, Tarrys Fire Department, and Winlaw Fire Department. All five apparatus will replace fire apparatus ranging in age from 25 to 27 years old.
The Fire Underwriters Survey (FUS) specifies frontline fire apparatus age as a critical factor in determining communities Dwelling Protection Grading. For rural communities, the age is set at 20 years before replacement. The RDCK was granted an extension by FUS on each apparatus to accommodate the procurement and building process for the new apparatus.
The expected delivery date is some time in 2027.
Local Conservation Fund
The Board approved $139,767 in grant funds for the Local Conservation Fund to be spread among eight different projects. The fund provides grants to support local conservation efforts in Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, and H focused on the conservation of water and aquatic systems, as well as wildlife and habitat. Here are the eight projects:
| PROJECT | PROPONENT | AMOUNT |
| Enhancing bat habitat and monitoring populations in the West Kootenays | Wildlife Conservation Society of Canada | $24,208 |
| Slocan Valley Pollinator Highway Project: Phase 1 – Year 2 | Elk Root Conservation Farm Society | $18,865 |
| Slocan River Riparian Restoration 2025 | Slocan River Streamkeepers | $20,000 |
| Central Kootenays Wetland Restoration | BC Wildfire Federation | $16,000 |
| Construction and Conservation of Artificial Bat Roosts in West Kootenay | Okanagan Nation Alliance | $18,497 |
| Kootenay BroomBusters – A Community Led Pulling Together Program | Central Kootenay Invasive Species Society | $15,730 |
| North Kootenay Lake Climate Resilience and Water Monitoring Project | Living Lakes Canada | $12,000 |
| Wire Fence Removal to Restore Habitat Connectivity | Wildsight Creston Valley | $14,467 |
Director’s Reports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the March reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, www.rdck.ca, aimed at improving accessibility, transparency, and public engagement. The new platform offers residents, businesses, and visitors a user-friendly experience with improved navigation, enhanced features, and easier access to important RDCK services and information.
With a fresh, clean, modern design, the new website provides a streamlined interface that ensures quick access to essential resources such as Board meeting agendas and minutes, building permits, recreation facilities, and hours of operation for waste and recycling facilities.
“This has been a long time coming and we are excited to introduce a digital experience that better serves our community,” said Stuart Horn, RDCK Chief Administrative Officer. “This new website, which is our number one communication tool, reflects our commitment to transparency, efficiency, and accessibility, ensuring residents can easily find the information and services they need. We look forward to hearing how our new website functions in this regard as well as how we can continue to improve”
Key features of the new website include:
The new website is a culmination of work between the RDCK and web developer Paper Crane. The RDCK invites residents to explore the new website and provide feedback on its functionality and features. The site will continue to evolve with ongoing updates and enhancements based on user needs and technological advancements.
Nelson, BC: On January 16, 2025, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Board of Directors approved the permanent closure of the Winlaw Recycling Depot located at 5686 Highway 6 in Electoral Area H. The site will continue to service its customers until its permanent closure on March 31, 2025.
The closest facilities to use upon closure are the Slocan Transfer Station (8875 Slocan South Road) or the Crescent Valley Recycling Depot (1285 Highway 6, beside the Community Hall).
Closing Winlaw was one of the recommendations of the Tipping Fee Cost Recovery Assessment & Resource System Efficiency Study (the Study), completed by GHD Consulting in 2024 to identify options for improving operational efficiencies, cost-effectiveness, and equitability of the regions Resource Recovery Program.
The Study compared RDCK to other regional districts, based on the hours of operation and the number of facilities per capita, and recommended closing any facilities which are collecting less than 50 kg of recycling per hour of operation and are located less than a 20-minute drive from other RDCK facilities.
Winlaw Recycling Depot is a Satellite Depot which accepts fewer materials than a Core Depot due to transportation costs and space restrictions; it receives approximately 40 kg per hour on average of household glass, plastic and paper products per hour of operation, and is approximately 19 km from the Slocan Core Recycling Depot, and approximately 24 km from the Crescent Valley Core Recycling Depot.
Closing Winlaw Recycling Depot will annually save an estimated $40,885 in operational costs, such as rent, snow removal, hauling of collected recyclables, staffing and supplies.
Recommendations in the Study related to tipping fee cost recovery and operational efficiencies are still being considered by Staff and the RDCK Board, and more changes will be proposed in 2025.
2025-2029 Draft Financial Plan
The current draft of this year’s financial plan is showing an average taxation increase of 6.5%, although actual changes vary widely based on property location. For example, the RDCK portion of Village of Slocan taxes are projected to decrease by 1.8%, while Electoral Area D is showing a 14% increase. Further changes to the Financial Plan are expected as there are ongoing budget reviews and discussions with Directors, staff, and at the committee level, as well as public engagement budget meetings throughout the region.
The budget process will conclude at the March 20Open Board Meeting where Directors will have a final opportunity to discuss, modify, and consider adoption of the budget.
Establishment of Local Conservation Fund Committee
The Board adopted Bylaw 2975: Local Conservation Fund Committee to establish a formal committee to review the proposed projects for local conservation funding. The establishment of the committee formalizes a practice previously conducted by those RDCK Directors whose Electoral Areas participate in the Local Conservation Service. Creating an official committee structure improves consistency with other RDCK service governance, ensuring proper public notice of meetings and opportunity for the public to attend.
Originally established in 2014, the Local Conservation Fund is collected in Electoral Areas A, D, E, F, and H. It provides funding for projects that benefit conservation in the rural areas around Kootenay Lake and the Slocan Valley. The fund is financed by an annual parcel tax of $15 in each of the participating Electoral Areas and applies to all parcels in the service area. Since 2016 the fund has distributed over $700,000 towards local conservation projects.
Community Readiness Partnership
The Board approved the RDCK enter into a two-year contribution agreement with Columbia Basin Trust to augment rural emergency management mitigation and preparedness capacity. The intent of the Community Readiness Partnership is to address gaps in funding initiatives that strengthen emergency preparedness, increase regional collaboration, and improve response capabilities in rural communities. Over the two years, the RDCK will receive $230,000 in funding which will go towards equipment purchases (vehicles, generators, trailer), training, extending the reach of existing community-based outreach initiatives such as the Neighbourhood Emergency Preparedness Plans, and renovations or improvements to emergency operation centres.
Inland Ferry Services Resolution
The Board Submitted a resolution regarding inland ferry services for consideration at the 2025 Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) annual general meeting. Each year regional districts can submit resolutions to the AKBLG meeting for consideration, discussion and voting on by membership. The narrowed list will be presented to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) and ultimately sent to the Legislative Assembly of BC for consideration by the provincial legislature.
The resolution put forward by the Board calls for the Province of BC to recognize that all ferry services within the province are necessary to the health, safety, and welfare of all the residents and should be considered when predetermining minimum inland ferry service levels on a site by site basis, and that the UBCM work with the affected areas and the Provincial Government to find a solution to ensure that rights of all British Columbia residents are protected equally on the Coast and the Interior of British Columbia.
Sue Big Oil resolution defeated
The Board voted against joining the Sue Big Oil class action lawsuit. Of the 20 Board of Directors, 16 opposed the motion. Sue Big Oil asks local governments to allocate at least $1 per resident, with the goal of raising $500,000 to get a class action lawsuit certified. During a lengthy conversation, the majority of Directors agreed they could not support taking a dollar from people who are not voluntarily signing up for a lawsuit.
Director’s Reports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the February reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.
Nelson, BC: The public engagement project, Reimagining Recreation Services in the Castlegar & District Area, has come to a close and the final report is now available online. The final report summarizes the three phases of the project, all the key information collected during the entire engagement process – highlighting what the community shared and drawing conclusions from the feedback, as well as outlining potential future steps for the Castlegar & District Recreation Commission.
Key Highlights of the Final Report:
Next Steps for the Community:
The Castlegar & District Recreation Commission has reviewed the final report and has directed staff to bring back further information to evaluate the tax contributions needed to support a future project, based on the information gathered in the phase 2 survey. The Commission remains committed to ensuring the community’s voice is central in the decision-making process as it navigates the future of local recreation services.
“We are extremely grateful to the community for its active participation and valuable feedback throughout this engagement process,” said Brian Bogle, Chair of the Castlegar and District Recreation Commission. “This final report is an essential step as we move into the planning stage, and we will continue to keep residents informed about the next steps as we work towards creating a vibrant recreation environment.”
Review the final report and all three phases’ reports at Reimagining Recreation Services in the Castlegar & District Area | Engage RDCK.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Water Quality Advisory for users on the South Slocan Water System. The system is located in the community of South Slocan Village approximately 30 km southwest of Nelson and is within RDCK Electoral Area H. The Dam Inn is across Highway 3A and is supplied water from this water system.
The Water Quality Advisory has been issued due to high post-treatment turbidity as a result of rapid snow melt at the spring supply.
While health risks are considered low, the RDCK recommends children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, and anyone seeking additional protection drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. For these at-risk populations, water intended for drinking, washing fruits or vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water, or water that has been filtered through a well-maintained treatment device.
Owners of all public facilities must post a Water Quality Advisory at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Water Quality Advisory.
The RDCK will be taking measures to reduce risk; water quality will be monitored, and the public will be notified when the RDCK is able to lift the Water Quality Advisory.
We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. For more information contact the RDCK (250) 352-8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is set to pilot a program to divert used cooking oil from sewers and landfills to produce a higher end-use product.
The project is in partnership with Leduc Industrial Inc., a Cranbrook-based business that provides cooking oil collection services for commercial businesses, restaurants and residents in Creston and the surrounding area. Leduc will collect the recovered cooking oil from the Creston Landfill and convert it into a safe, non-toxic concrete release agent for the construction industry.
The program is set to commence March 15, 2025, and will run until October 31, 2025, at which point RDCK Staff will report to the RDCK Board of Directors on its effectiveness and make recommendations on continuing and/or expanding into other areas of the RDCK.
A 2024 survey of both food service businesses and institutions providing commercial food services within the RDCK found only 60% of those surveyed were using cooking oil collection services for disposing of their cooking oil. Some of the barriers to proper disposal were attributed to a lack of storage space and/or the availability of a proper disposal service. It is likely that much of this cooking oil is being dumped with garbage or down the drain, which creates problems such as damage to landfill equipment, sewer system blockages and overflows, and polluting of groundwater and rivers.
Ferdinand Schmidt, the Director of Infrastructure Services for the Town of Creston, agrees this pilot program is beneficial for both the Town of Creston and the RDCK’s Landfill Operations, and encourages residents and businesses to dispose of oil and grease responsibly. “Simple actions, such as recycling cooking oil instead of pouring it down the drain, can significantly protect our wastewater infrastructure and the environment.”
RDCK Resource Recovery Manager, Amy Wilson, feels this program will also benefit solid waste operations. “This program will be a win for everyone. Not only will this oil get a second life as a product for the construction industry, it will also help our landfill operations. Sometimes customers place used cooking oil in with their garbage, and I get there aren’t a lot of disposal options, but cooking oil can damage equipment and increase fire risk. Add to that greenhouse gases, like methane, which are generated any time an organic waste is landfilled.”
Disposing of used cooking oil is free of charge to residents in the Creston area, with a limit of 10 Litres per day. Disposals will be supervised by landfill staff, to ensure contaminants are kept out. This is strictly for used cooking oil, the likes of motor oil, hardened bacon fat, and antifreeze will not be accepted. Disposals can be done during regular business hours at the Creston Landfill.
For more information visit www.rdck.ca/cookingoil.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is pleased to announce that effective immediately the Boil Water Notice issued for users on the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, has been rescinded.
On February 12, 2025 a Boil Water Notice was issued due to depressurization of the water main supplying the majority of the water system. The Boil Water Notice was issued as a precautionary measure.
The repairs have been completed and water quality tests indicate the water quality is good.
The RDCK appreciates Lister water users’ cooperation and patience during this time and apologizes for the inconvenience experienced.
Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.
Monday, February 17 marks BC Family Day. It is a provinical statutory holiday and as a result all RDCK offices (Creston, Nakusp, and Nelson), landfills, transfer stations, and gated recycling depots will be CLOSED.
If you are looking for some family fun, RDCK recreation facilities in Castlegar, Creston, and Nelson will be offering free activies and are open from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Salmo Recreation is CLOSED.
Castlegar & District Community Complex and Nelson & District Community Complex
Free Family Swim 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Free Skate 2:00 pm – 3:15 pm and 3:30 pm – 4:45 pm
Creston & District Community Complex
Free Family Swim 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Free Skate 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm and 3:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Nelson, BC: As part of the Organic Waste Diversion Program at the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK), a new pilot program to subsidize separated organic waste tipping fees for commercial customers has recently been approved by the Board of Directors. This initiative was brought forward to generate more affordable participation in organic waste recycling in the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (IC&I) sectors.
Disposal cost of source separated commercial organic waste is currently subsidized at 65% lower than mixed waste ($55/tonne compared to $166.50/tonne). The price of $55/tonne is a specific organic waste disposal rate for the IC&I sector. The standard organic waste tipping fee is currently $106.50/tonne. This subsidized tipping fee is available at all RDCK facilities where organic waste disposal infrastructure exists (Grohman Narrows Transfer Station, Ootischenia Landfill, Creston Landfill, and Central (Salmo) Transfer Station).
This pilot tipping fee subsidy program is approved for the IC&I Sector until January 2026, at which time the outcomes of the subsidized tipping fee will be reviewed by the Board of Directors.
With the support of the RDCK, the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce Business Climate Advisor has been working to provide education and advocacy for affordable, effective solutions to business’s waste disposal needs. By diverting compostable materials from mixed waste, businesses have the opportunity to both save money and help the environment.
In addition to the tipping fee subsidy, the RDCK Resource Recovery department will provide up to a $400 rebate for businesses in Nelson and surrounding areas towards the purchase of collection containers and supplies for starting organics recycling in their operations.
The $400 rebate is available for the first 25 participants on a first come, first serve basis, with application requests being sent via email to the Resource Recovery Department Organics Coordinator: organics@rdck.bc.ca.
The rebate program may be available to other municipalities and areas with access to organics disposal, should the business community express interest. Access to organics disposal is available to those with collection services, or who can self-haul commercial organic waste to an RDCK disposal facility. Commercial organic waste hauling services have been confirmed as available in the Nelson area, so now is a great time to connect with your contracted waste collection service provider or reach out to the RDCK to be connected to potential services.
RDCK staff are also able to provide education, and program implementation support at the request of a business. Staff can provide operation managers with front and back of house waste sorting recommendations, collection bin sitting support, and liaise with waste haulers to advocate for affordable, safe, and effective services.
An information session is being hosted by the Nelson Chamber of Commerce on February 24 from 8:30 am to 10:00 am to discuss these changes and opportunities for increased waste diversion and cost savings. RDCK staff will be available to answer questions and provide support and resources for setting up organic waste recycling in IC&I operations. Registration is free, and can be completed at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ici-organics-bin-pilot-program-info-session-tickets-1223805458069?aff=oddtdtcreator
A survey to help the RDCK better understand current waste disposal practices and barriers in the IC&I sector, as well as additional information about this initiative, including example signage and resources for starting organic waste recycling for commercial operations can be found online at https://engage.rdck.ca/ici-organics.
The RDCK Board of Directors has also directed the Resource Recovery Department to assess the feasibility of regulating organics disposal for the IC&I Sector, and to provide a framework for implementing some form of regulation on landfilling organic waste where diversion services exist. This feasibility study will be provided to the Board in the fall of 2025.
Nelson, BC: The Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) has issued a Boil Water Notice for users on the Lister Water System. The system is located in the community of Lister, within RDCK Electoral Area B.
The Boil Water Notice has been issued as a precautionary measure due to depressurization of the distribution system.
The RDCK and Interior Health recommend that all customers drink boiled water or a safe alternative until further notice. Water intended for drinking, washing fruits and vegetables, making beverages or ice, or brushing teeth should be boiled for one minute. Boiled water should then be refrigerated in a clean, covered container. Customers could also choose to use bottled or distilled water.
Owners of all public facilities must post a Boil Water Notice at all sinks or drinking water fountains accessible to the public (alternatively, public fountains and taps may be turned off). As opportunities arise, they must also advise their clientele verbally of the Boil Water Notice.
The RDCK will be taking measures to reduce risk; water quality will be monitored, and the public will be notified when the RDCK is able to lift the Boil Water Notice.
We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause and appreciate your cooperation and patience during this time. For more information contact the RDCK (250) 352-8161 or visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water.
Click here for a print-friendly PDF version.
Nelson, BC: As part of the Organic Waste Diversion Program at the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK), a new pilot program to subsidize separated organic waste tipping fees for commercial customers has recently been approved by the Board of Directors. This initiative was brought forward to generate more affordable participation in organic waste recycling in the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (IC&I) sectors.
Disposal cost of source separated commercial organic waste is currently subsidized at 65% lower than mixed waste ($55/tonne compared to $166.50/tonne). The price of $55/tonne is a specific organic waste disposal rate for the IC&I sector. The standard organic waste tipping fee is currently $106.50/tonne. This subsidized tipping fee is available at all RDCK facilities where organic waste disposal infrastructure exists (Grohman Narrows Transfer Station, Ootischenia Landfill, Creston Landfill, and Central (Salmo) Transfer Station).
This pilot tipping fee subsidy program is approved for the IC&I Sector until January 2026, at which time the outcomes of the subsidized tipping fee will be reviewed by the Board of Directors.
With the support of the RDCK, the Nelson and District Chamber of Commerce Business Climate Advisor has been working to provide education and advocacy for affordable, effective solutions to business’s waste disposal needs. By diverting compostable materials from mixed waste, businesses have the opportunity to both save money and help the environment.
In addition to the tipping fee subsidy, the RDCK Resource Recovery department will provide up to a $400 rebate for businesses in Nelson and surrounding areas towards the purchase of collection containers and supplies for starting organics recycling in their operations.
The $400 rebate is available for the first 25 participants on a first come, first serve basis, with application requests being sent via email to the Resource Recovery Department Organics Coordinator: organics@rdck.bc.ca.
The rebate program may be available to other municipalities and areas with access to organics disposal, should the business community express interest. Access to organics disposal is available to those with collection services, or who can self-haul commercial organic waste to an RDCK disposal facility. Commercial organic waste hauling services have been confirmed as available in the Nelson area, so now is a great time to connect with your contracted waste collection service provider or reach out to the RDCK to be connected to potential services.
RDCK staff are also able to provide education, and program implementation support at the request of a business. Staff can provide operation managers with front and back of house waste sorting recommendations, collection bin sitting support, and liaise with waste haulers to advocate for affordable, safe, and effective services.
An information session is being hosted by the Nelson Chamber of Commerce on February 24 from 8:30 am to 10:00 am to discuss these changes and opportunities for increased waste diversion and cost savings. RDCK staff will be available to answer questions and provide support and resources for setting up organic waste recycling in IC&I operations. Registration is free, and can be completed at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/ici-organics-bin-pilot-program-info-session-tickets-1223805458069?aff=oddtdtcreator.
A survey to help the RDCK better understand current waste disposal practices and barriers in the IC&I sector, as well as additional information about this initiative, including example signage and resources for starting organic waste recycling for commercial operations can be found online at https://engage.rdck.ca/ici-organics.
The RDCK Board of Directors has also directed the Resource Recovery Department to assess the feasibility of regulating organics disposal for the IC&I Sector, and to provide a framework for implementing some form of regulation on landfilling organic waste where diversion services exist. This feasibility study will be provided to the Board in the fall of 2025.
Update 5:50 pm PST
Nelson, BC: The water main break affecting the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, will not be able to be repaired until tomorrow morning. Most users will experience overnight water outages. The RDCK appreciates your patience and apologizes for the inconvenience. Water service is expected to be restored late morning tomorrow (Wednesday, February 12). A precautionary Boil Water Notice will be issued once water is restored, with more information and instructions provided at the time.
4:30 pm PST
Effective immediately, the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) is implementing emergency water restrictions for the Lister Water System, in Electoral Area B, due to a water main break on 28th Street, which supplies the majority of the Lister Water System. The majority of users will experience water outages as a result.
The RDCK is asking users that have water supply to limit use to drinking water only. Customers will be updated as to when water supply will be restored once the break is assessed.
The RDCK appreciates your cooperation in adhering to the water restrictions and will notify users once regular water use can resume. For more information, please visit our website at www.rdck.ca/water or contact the RDCK at 250.352.8161 or 1.800.268.7325 ext. 8161.
The Marblehead Transfer Station (13925 Highway 31, Meadow Creek) will return to regular operating hours starting Wednesday, February 5. All work has been completed to remove logs and debris from the site, following an incident last week. The facility has been declared safe and secure for our staff and residents to return. Many thanks to everyone for your patience and understanding during this temporary disruption.
The Marblehead Transfer Station and Recycling Depot is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.
The Marblehead Transfer Station (13825 Highway 31, Meadow Creek) will remain CLOSED through the weekend and will be re-evaluated early next week. On Monday, January 27 a private logging contractor was working above the site and logs slid down the embankment and into the facility. Nobody was on site during the incident, but one of the structures received extensive damage. The RDCK is working with WorkSafeBC and the private logging contractor on the safe removal of the logs from the property, and most importantly, to ensure the safety of RDCK staff and the public when visiting the site moving forward.
For residents in the area, the nearest alternative Resource Recovery facility is the Kaslo Transfer Station (1302 Kaslo West Road).
The Kaslo Transfer Station is open Sunday, Tuesday, & Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Inland Ferries in the RDCK
The Board approved the writing of two letters regarding inland ferry service. The first to be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Minister of Transportation and Transit requesting the BC Government implement, meaningful consultation, automatic standing, hearings in impacted communities, and prioritize the mental health and welfare impacts on BC residents while considering the needs of physically isolated communities before it can disrupt access for BC resident’s access to essential services they rely upon for their health, safety, and welfare.
The second letter will be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Premier of British Columbia and Minister of Transportation and Transit acknowledging that the Province legislate that inland ferry services are categorized as essential services for residents of BC, and further, the current essential service orders for daily sailings of the Kootenay Lake, Glade, and Harrop-Procter ferries does not meet the needs of those communities, and that a new determination be made on the minimum number and frequency of daily sailings required to maintain each crossing.
Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw
The Board adopted a new Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw which includes a 10% increase on all tipping fees at RDCK landfills and transfer stations, effective February 1, 2025. As waste management becomes more complex, capital and operating costs, which include fuel, labour, insurance, interest on borrowing repayment, and more stringent regulatory requirements, continue to increase. Additionally, sufficient reserve funds are required to minimize future borrowing costs and fund a number of long-term projects such as landfill upgrades and infrastructure replacement.
The RDCK is committed towards operating “user pay” facilities, meaning those who generate waste pay for its disposal. The purpose of this is to financially incentivize diversion.
The bylaw also has made changes to promote diversion of organic waste to composting facilities, through the acceptance of compostable plastic bag liners, produced from biomass, for their environmental benefits and competitive pricing.
Resource Recovery System Efficiency Study
In 2024, the RDCK undertook a system efficiency study to gain a better understanding of the costs of managing specific waste materials, as well as to identify options for improving cost effectiveness and equitability across the region. The study identified existing tipping fees were not sufficient to cover the current cost of disposal for most materials. As a result, the shortfall has been made up through taxation, which impacts everyone regardless of individual waste generation and diversion efforts. The study recommended increasing tipping fees, as well as the closure of some Satellite facilities. Winlaw Recycling Depot will be closed some time in 2025. The closure will save $33,382 on an annual basis while still providing residents a high level of service.
Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Organics Collection Pilot Program
The Board approved proposed subsidies and support for the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional organics diversion pilot program in and around the City of Nelson. This includes a reduction in commercial organics tipping fee, education and training support for participating businesses, development of a communications plan to promote and support the pilot, and rebates for the first 25 participating businesses.
Director’s Reports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the January reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.
Here are the Board Highlights from January.
Inland Ferries in the RDCK
The Board approved the writing of two letters regarding inland ferry service. The first to be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Minister of Transportation and Transit requesting the BC Government implement, meaningful consultation, automatic standing, hearings in impacted communities, and prioritize the mental health and welfare impacts on BC residents while considering the needs of physically isolated communities before it can disrupt access for BC resident’s access to essential services they rely upon for their health, safety, and welfare.
The second letter will be sent on behalf of the RDCK Board to the Premier of British Columbia and Minister of Transportation and Transit acknowledging that the Province legislate that inland ferry services are categorized as essential services for residents of BC, and further, the current essential service orders for daily sailings of the Kootenay Lake, Glade, and Harrop-Procter ferries does not meet the needs of those communities, and that a new determination be made on the minimum number and frequency of daily sailings required to maintain each crossing.
Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw
The Board adopted a new Resource Recovery Facility Regulatory Bylaw which includes a 10% increase on all tipping fees at RDCK landfills and transfer stations, effective February 1, 2025. As waste management becomes more complex, capital and operating costs, which include fuel, labour, insurance, interest on borrowing repayment, and more stringent regulatory requirements, continue to increase. Additionally, sufficient reserve funds are required to minimize future borrowing costs and fund a number of long-term projects such as landfill upgrades and infrastructure replacement.
The RDCK is committed towards operating “user pay” facilities, meaning those who generate waste pay for its disposal. The purpose of this is to financially incentivize diversion.
The bylaw also has made changes to promote diversion of organic waste to composting facilities, through the acceptance of compostable plastic bag liners, produced from biomass, for their environmental benefits and competitive pricing.
Resource Recovery System Efficiency Study
In 2024, the RDCK undertook a system efficiency study to gain a better understanding of the costs of managing specific waste materials, as well as to identify options for improving cost effectiveness and equitability across the region. The study identified existing tipping fees were not sufficient to cover the current cost of disposal for most materials. As a result, the shortfall has been made up through taxation, which impacts everyone regardless of individual waste generation and diversion efforts. The study recommended increasing tipping fees, as well as the closure of some Satellite facilities. Winlaw Recycling Depot will be closed some time in 2025. The closure will save $33,382 on an annual basis while still providing residents a high level of service.
Industrial, Commercial and Institutional Organics Collection Pilot Program
The Board approved proposed subsidies and support for the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional organics diversion pilot program in and around the City of Nelson. This includes a reduction in commercial organics tipping fee, education and training support for participating businesses, development of a communications plan to promote and support the pilot, and rebates for the first 25 participating businesses.
Director’s Reports
RDCK Directors provide monthly reports outlining what they have been working on. Click here to read the January reports in the Board minutes.
RDCK Quarterly Report
For the latest RDCK Quarterly Report, which details the current projects and initiatives of the RDCK, please follow the link.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
Vancouver, BC – BC Parks Foundation is proud to be part of the largest expansion of Rosebud Lake Regional Park in its 30-year history, expanding the park from 16 hectares to more than 80. That’s five times its current size.
This expansion brings much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park. The shoreline and the upland leading into it are crucial for Western Painted Turtles which make their home in this part of British Columbia and are the only native freshwater turtle species in BC.
These charming creatures stand out with their unique red and yellow stripes and can often be found sunbathing in the spring. According to the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, the Western Painted Turtles are of special concern. They are especially vulnerable and under threat at their nesting stage. Predators and humans can damage their eggs. As a result, only one in five hatchlings make it to adulthood.
“We purchased this land and protected these vulnerable nesting sites to give the turtles a better chance of hatching and surviving to adulthood,” says BC Parks Foundation CEO Andy Day. “We also recognize it’s a popular recreational area. We are supported by British Columbians and this announcement reflects our community’s commitment to provide opportunities for people to enjoy BC while conserving the incredible diversity of life that also lives here.”
Rosebud Lake is unique because it is fed by underground springs, further emphasizing the importance of protecting these lands. In 2002, Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) established “The Rosebud Lake Park Plan” which identified the need to expand the park to provide refuge for the wildlife and the ability to control the water levels that are critical for the park’s environment. Today’s announcement builds on parks being part of the climate solution and reducing the carbon pollution that is driving climate change.
“We have worked hard to secure the protection of the Western Painted Turtle and are happy to now have both the water and land protection to ensure the survival of the painted turtles,” says Hans Cunningham, RDCK Electoral Area G Director. “ This day wouldn’t have been possible without BC Parks Foundation working with Regional Parks staff to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park. We are excited for the public to continue to access the Park as an outdoor recreation area.”
This park expansion demonstrates the strength of the Foundation’s partnerships with Environment and Climate Change Canada and The Wilson 5 Foundation.
“Expanding Rosebud Lake Regional Park not only safeguards critical habitat for Western Painted Turtles but also creates a space where people can stay active, explore, and connect with nature,” say Summer and Chip Wilson. “This expansion ensures the heart of what makes BC extraordinary is protected forever.”
“Through collaboration with partners like the BC Parks Foundation and the support of generous foundations, we are working to expand Rosebud Lake Regional Park, bringing much of the lake’s shoreline into the regional park,” says Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault. “The Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund is playing a key role in helping combat climate change and biodiversity loss, getting us closer to our national goal of conserving 30% of land and water in Canada by 2030.”
The RDCK will continue to operate Rosebud Lake Regional Park, including the additional land acquired, and will be taking over the rights and obligations of the water license to protect the painted turtles.
Park visitors must stay on existing roads and trails, but please note that these roads and trails are not routinely maintained. Basic amenities and upgrades to the park will be done through RDCK Park’s planning efforts and in the future will work towards a Management Plan that will include public consultation.
“This project is a great example of British Columbians coming together to protect this beautiful land, water, and wildlife. It’s a real tribute to everyone involved and we are very grateful on behalf of the generations of people, turtles and other wildlife that will benefit,” says Day.
For more information on the BC Parks Foundation click here.
Click here to view a print-friendly PDF version.
