Starting on March 19 all neighborhoods currently utilizing dumpsters for waste disposal will begin the transition to curbside pickup.
Why?
Although there are notable benefits to dumpsters, we believe this transition will:
Re-train wildlife
Animals such as bears see dumpsters as reliable sources of food, by eliminating the food source, we aim to over time, eliminate the perception that neighborhoods are a one stop shop for meals and reduce wildlife activity in neighborhoods on JBER.
Promote safe disposal practices and encourage recycling
Over the years, the dumpsters have seen it all from TVs, to motors, to glass to animal carcasses; the freedom for anyone on the installation to access dumpsters has led to an increase in non-permitted, illegal, and reckless disposal practices. In addition, recycling utilization on JBER as a whole is low, however we have seen a notable increase in neighborhoods that have already transitioned to curbside pickup.
Result in cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods
Nobody likes to come home to see a broken couch or bags of trash in their yard. For residents with dumpsters in their yards, this has long been an issue; we hope this transition will result in a better community experience.
While dumpsters offered a bit more disposal flexibility and were less costly; we ultimately believe the short and long term benefits of curbside pickup greatly outweigh those offered by the dumpsters.
Which neighborhoods are affected?
Almost all of our neighborhoods have already transitioned. Moose Crossing, Sunflower, and New Sunflower are the remaining neighborhoods transitioning this year.
How does this work?
Beginning the week of March 19, 2018, Alaska Waste will commence delivery of tipsters to each home; this process will be completed no later than March 30, 2018. Upon receipt of your new tipster, please discontinue the use of the neighborhood dumpsters as they will be emptied and removed in the days following tipster delivery. Alaska Waste will begin curbside pickup service to your neighborhood on April 4, 2018.
The tipster being delivered is the largest available, at 96 gallons.
Curbside Pickup Rules and Reminders
1. Place your tipster out by 6 AM on the morning of pickup
Pickup can occur any time between 6 AM and 3 PM. There are no set pickup times for neighborhoods, as Alaska Waste has complete discretion for routing vehicles on pickup day.
2. Ensure tipster is positioned properly on pickup day
The side with the handles and wheels should be facing your home. Ensure the lid closes all the way and the tipster is at least 3 feet from any obstructions. Alaska Waste uses an automated system to pickup tipsters, so improper positioning can hinder pickup.
3. Store your tipster in your garage
Keeping tipsters inside prevents animals from discovering them and associating your neighborhood with food. While this may be an inconvenience to some, feeding wildlife, whether intentional or unintentional, is illegal in Anchorage and on JBER.
4. Report wildlife
JBER Conservation Law Enforcement will patrol neighborhoods regularly; wildlife is a major concern on the installation and a number of agencies are working alongside our team to combat this challenge. If aggressive or threatening wildlife is sighted in a neighborhood, it should be reported directly to JBER Security Forces at 907.552.3421. Security Forces will dispatch Conservation Law Enforcement personnel who utilizes a variety of techniques to track, deter, and maintain wildlife populations on the installation.
5. Report lost tipsters to our maintenance team
Sometimes wind happens. If by chance your tipster blows away, first check down the road; it has likely not gone far. If you are still unable to locate it, contact our work order line. We seldom have challenges locating lost tipsters and returning them to their home.
6. Double bag trash
While not always necessary, double bagging trash, such as that from the kitchen, can contain smells and prevent leaks.
Resources
Trash and Recycling Pickup Schedule
Blog Post: JBER Wildlife Safety
Refuse Update Notice: 2018
