The County of St. Paul is reminding residents to properly dispose of household waste after several cases of illegal dumping were reported over the past week.

According to the County, multiple incidents were discovered, primarily in the Owlseye area and along Township Road 582. Among the items left behind were bicycle parts, garage furniture, vintage electronic components – including some still in their original packaging – and, most concerning, prescription medication left inside discarded pill bottles.

County officials say illegal dumping imposes unnecessary costs on taxpayers by diverting staff from regular waste management and maintenance duties to clean up abandoned materials.

Beyond the cost, improperly discarded waste can also pose risks to the environment, nearby livestock, and wildlife.

The County is reminding residents that there are several convenient options for disposing of household waste and recyclable materials, including:

• Three landfills located in Ashmont, Mallaig and Evergreen (Lafond)
• Six transfer stations in St. Edouard, St. Lina, Vincent Lake, Whitney Lake, St. Paul and Elk Point
• More than 30 bin sites throughout the region

Residents can also use the “Take It or Leave It” areas available at all transfer stations for reusable items.

Unused or expired prescription medications should never be thrown into the garbage or left outdoors. Instead, they can be returned to a local pharmacy for safe disposal.

Anyone unsure whether an item is accepted at a County waste facility can contact the Waste Management Department at 780-645-3006 (press 5). The same number can also be used to report incidents of illegal dumping.

A map of waste management locations and a list of accepted materials is available on the County of St. Paul website.