She's done it again!

Jill Ackerman has initiated a new program to recycle Haylage and Silage Wrap. She previously started a binder twine recycling program, which has now expanded to include the wrap from silage and haylage bales. This has been an on-going problem for the industry since the waste generated has not been dealt with appropriately up to this point. Most farmers only had the option of sending the plastic to their local landfill or burying it in their yard....neither of which are desirable options. Finally, farmers have a sustainable alternative thanks to Jill!

In order to ensure that this service continues, we need to do our part to make sure that the wrap is clean and dry. Jill recommends five easy steps we should follow before we deliver the wrap to the recycling facilities:

1) Cut the bag open with a method that keeps plastic clean from debris

• Use a forklift to elevate the bale off the ground
• Hang the plastic somewhere off the ground until after feeding
• Shake the plastic to remove any excess forage, debris, manure etc.
• Remove all rocks

2) Hang the plastics to dry for 1 to 2 days (need to be as dry as possible)

3) Shake out plastic again to remove any leftover debris

4) Store the plastic in a dry and convenient location

• Store plastics of different colours and materials in separate containers
• Tote bags, wagon racks, barn posts, and beams are potential locations
• Store away from sunlight to prevent degradation

5) Deliver to local recycling agent or contact a designated collection service

There are three locations that will accept silage and haylage wrap:

CompuCycle Recycling, 3274b Third St., Cumberland, BC (250-336-8136)
Genesis Recycling Ltd., 26049 30th Ave., Aldergrove, BC (1-877-607-1117)
Simply Plastics, Vantage Rd., Tilbury Park, North Delta, BC (604-952-0898)

For more information please contact Jill Ackerman at itstwinetorecycle@yahoo.ca or Genesis Recycling at the phone number above.

Thanks Jill and happy recycling to everyone!