Don't dump your ideas – Muskoka officials want to hear what you think about waste in the district
The trash talk in Muskoka continues as the district rolls out the next phase of its long-term waste plan.
While the clear bag program, green bin expansion and shift to producer responsibility were key parts of the first phase of Muskoka's solid waste master plan (SWMP), the second phase, which began in early 2025, focuses on shaping the future of waste management.
The district says public input will help shape a sustainable waste system, extend landfill life, explore post-closure disposal options and boost waste reduction and recycling programs.
As of early 2023, about 74 per cent of the Rosewarne landfill's space was still available,
according to the district's 2025 SWMP
. Since opening in 2016, it has been filling at an average rate of 61,000 cubic meters per year.
The landfill is projected to receive about 26,600 tonnes of garbage in 2025 from a permanent population of nearly 70,000 people. That works out to about 0.38 tonnes of waste per person, using up roughly 62,700 cubic meters of landfill space for the year.
The bottom line is that Muskoka's only landfill is expected to reach full capacity by the end of 2038 and close in 2039.
James Steele, the district's commissioner of public works, said public engagement is essential and offers a chance for people to glimpse 'what happens behind the scenes' in keeping the community safe and clean.
He added it's an opportunity to recognize the 'dedicated teams' who keep people moving, water flowing, and waste properly managed.
Muskoka's engineering and public works team will host its second annual
Public Works Palooza
on May 24 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the
Rosewarne Landfill Site
.
Visitors can expect to learn about road maintenance, waste management, water and wastewater services, and more. Activities include free compost distribution (bring your own buckets and shovels), a vote to name the new compost turner, live falcon demonstrations by the Royal Canadian Falconry and waste diversion challenges.
The event also offers an opportunity to explore careers in engineering and public works and to receive practical tips on protecting Muskoka's water systems, including what should not be flushed.
Food will be available from the Windermere & District Lions Club barbecue (cash only). The event is open rain or shine.
With new clear garbage bag rules already in effect and outside agencies like Circular Materials involved, the district is asking residents what should come next for Muskoka's waste system.
There will be
a series of public open houses
in early June as part of the ongoing SWMP engagement process. The SWMP will guide how the region manages garbage, recycling and other waste over the next 30 years.
Open house schedule:
Online option:
Megan Hederson is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter covering Huntsville and Lake of Bays for
MuskokaRegion.com
. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
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