Clark County transfer stations are seeing an influx of people dropping off garbage and yard debris amid warmer weather, which is causing problems for staff trying to enforce social distancing guidelines.
The increase in visitors is creating unsafe conditions for customers and workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, the county said in a news release.
Officials are reminding people that they need to stay at least 6 feet from each other to help prevent the spread of the virus.
“We are seeing double and triple the number of visits to transfer stations compared to this time last year,” said Kim Harless, solid waste operations specialist for Clark County. “We have many options already in place to have items picked up curbside from your home. We want everyone to stay safe, stay healthy and stay home.”
Residents should minimize trips to the recycling and transfer stations. There are several options:
• For an additional fee, extra garbage can be set out on your regular pickup day next to your garbage can, either in a 32-gallon plastic bag or 32-gallon can.
• For no additional cost, extra recycling can be set out on your regular pickup day next to your recycle cart, either in a cardboard box or large paper bag found at hardware stores.
• For an additional fee, extra yard debris pickup is offered in Vancouver, Ridgefield, Washougal, Camas and rural areas of the county. Bag extra yard debris in large paper bags or mark containers with “yard debris.” No food scraps are allowed, and extra yard debris in plastic bags will not be picked up.
• For an additional fee, furniture, appliances, electronics or tires can be picked up at your curbside. This service is available in Vancouver, Ridgefield, Washougal and rural areas.
Contact Waste Connections at 360-892-5370 or customerhelp@wcnx.org to schedule a bulky waste pickup. One to two weeks advance notice is recommended.
Camas residents can call the city’s Utility Customer Service line at 360-834-2462 for details on microwave and small furniture pickups.
Vancouver households within the city limits that have active garbage service are eligible for one free appliance pickup per year.
