Emergency Curbside Removal of Flood Damaged Debris Ends Soon

Duluth, MN-WLSSD’s Emergency Curbside Flood Debris Removal Program is entering its final week. Collection will continue through Thursday, July 19, however materials must be moved to the curb by Thursday, July 12 to guarantee pickup.  The emergency debris removal program will be provided in the communities of Duluth, Hermantown, Proctor, Rice Lake Township, Lakewood, Canosia, Grand Lake, Duluth Township, Solway Township, and Midway Township. The collection is intended for the removal of flood-damaged debris in order to protect public health and safety.  Other materials left at the curb will not be collected and must be disposed of by individual residents.

Residents moving materials to the curb must separate waste into four categories for curbside collection: electronics, large appliances, vegetative debris and bulky household debris.  Debris must not be placed in the roadway.

Kitchen waste, spoiled foods, and other standard household wastes will not be accepted in the special pickups.  Residents should continue to use their regular trash service on regular pickup days for this service.  Household Hazardous Wastes (such as paints, stains, chemicals, etc.) should not be placed on the curb and will not be accepted in curbside pickups. It is illegal to dispose of hazardous waste in the trash.  These materials should be brought to WLSSD’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility free of charge.  WLSSD’s Materials Recovery Center will also accept household hazardous wastes free of charge through July 19 only.

Residents are encouraged to remove flood-damaged debris from their properties as soon and possible. Speedy removal prevents vermin (insects, rodents, raccoons, etc.) from setting up housekeeping in piles left on the curb, in yards, in basements, and also reduces the amount of surface area for mold or fungus growth.  Speedy removal prevents odors from developing and allows fresh air to circulate. Area residents should contact the WLSSD HOTLINE at 218-722-0761 with questions about proper disposal.

Residents who need assistance moving items to the curb or out of basements or other structures should visit the United Way website at unitedwayduluth.org and click on “Get Help” to request assistance.

The Western Lake Superior Sanitary District provides regional solid waste services for northeastern Minnesota and operates it wastewater treatment plant in Lincoln Park-Duluth.

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