Residents in the Sayward area are being encouraged to clean up their properties and reduce wildfire risks as part of a free yard wood debris pickup program taking place Monday, June 8.
According to the Strathcona Regional District, residents should place eligible wood debris at the end of their driveways by 9 a.m. on June 8 for collection and chipping. The initiative is part of ongoing FireSmart efforts aimed at helping property owners reduce combustible materials around homes and neighbourhoods.
The program is being funded through the Village of Sayward’s 2025 FireSmart Community and Funding Support Grant, allowing debris to be disposed of free of charge. Depending on participation levels, crews may require several days to complete all pickups.
Residents do not need to register in advance, although organizers ask anyone with a difficult-to-find driveway to contact the SRD so their property can be added to a special list.
Accepted materials include tree trimmings and branches under 16 centimetres in diameter and no longer than 10 metres. Organizers say debris piles must not contain rocks, nails, roots, treated lumber, or invasive plant species such as Scotch broom or knotweed. Residents are also reminded not to block roadways when placing debris out for pickup.
The SRD notes there is no limit to the amount of eligible wood debris that can be chipped, provided materials meet program guidelines. Wood chips generated through the process will not be returned to residents due to FireSmart fuel reduction principles.
