Seven actions you can take to help the environment

Spring is here and it is a great time to help protect our precious land, air and water. Together we can make a difference. Here are seven actions that can make a big difference.


1. Attend a community tree fair

This spring, we will be hosting tree fairs at community parks all around Calgary, with free resources and demonstrations showing you how to care for your trees and plant new trees. There will also be lots of fun activities for kids, entertainment and food options. Together we can recover our trees that were damaged in the September 2014 snowstorm and help our trees grow to what they once were. For locations and dates, visit the "Events" tab of calgary.ca/trees.


2. Reduce idling

When vehicles are left running while parked, they continue to produce emissions that contribute to air pollution and climate change. Turning off the engine is a great way to reduce emissions and save money. Ten seconds of idling uses more fuel than turning your engine off and restarting it. If you want to start an idle free zone at your school or workplace visit calgary.ca for idle free posters that can be downloaded and printed.


3. Plant some smarty plants

This summer enjoy a beautiful yard that is easy to maintain. Smarty plants are part of The City of Calgary’s YardSmart program and are plants that don’t require a lot of water and still thrive in Calgary’s unique climate. Since summer water usage can increase by 50 per cent, becoming water and YardSmart can reduce your summer watering bill and this means more savings for you. Visit calgary.ca/yardsmart to find a list of smarty plants and other YardSmart actions.


4. Use a rain barrel

A good rain shower can quickly fill a rain barrel and provide a free source of water for your yard. Your plants will love the rain water and will flourish. Green Calgary is hosting a number of rain barrel sales this spring and summer, to see the dates and locations of the sales go to greencalgary.org.


5. Reduce/Reuse/Recycle

Reducing the amount of material that gets sent to the landfill is important to everyone. Thanks to the efforts of all Calgarians, we’ve recycled more than 350,000,000 kilograms of material in the last five years. By reducing, reusing and recycling, we are doing more with less – and that is great for the environment. The City of Calgary has created a searchable online tool called What Goes Where and it has helped thousands of Calgarians find out how to give a second life to materials. Check it out at calgary.ca/whatgoeswhere the next time you are wondering where something goes.


6. Just compost it

At this time of year, nearly a third of our residential garbage is yard waste. Rather than putting your old leaves, branches, and plants in the garbage, give these materials a second life by turning them into compost. Bring your yard waste for composting to any City landfill for free until the end of May. Visit calgary.ca/springcleaning for more information on the program and landfill hours.


7. Eat local

Local food is miles better. The average meal travels 2500 kilometres to reach your plate – that’s a lot of fuel, energy and carbon emissions. Growing your own food or eating food that is produced locally is a great way to save energy and help protect the environment. The added bonus is that local food is fresher and taste great! If you're looking for more information on local food or are interested in joining a community garden, visit calgary.ca/localfood.

Please visit calgary.ca/spring to find out more information on spring in Calgary.

Visit whatgoeswhere.ca – your best source for disposal information

If you've bought a new TV or received a new kitchen appliance for Christmas, there’s no need to scratch your head wondering what you to do with your old gadgets. We have the answers that’ll make it a snap to do the right thing.


Visit whatgoeswhere.ca and type in your item to find all the best options for disposing of your old stuff. With responsible disposal information on more than 200 items, in many cases you’ll find alternatives other than dumping them in our landfills.


What Goes Where? will tell you which cart to use at home, or if the item is still useable it’ll link you to nearby charities where it can be donated. For other items that need to be disposed of safely or recycled elsewhere it’ll point you to locations across the city.


Help clear out the Christmas clutter and make your Christmas a little greener using the What Goes Where? tool this holiday season.

Recycling advice to keep you on Santa’s “Nice” list

We’re making a list, and checking it twice... on which materials are naughty and nice. Okay, okay that’s not how the song goes, but it’s a good reminder that while your blue cart can help you deal with a lot of the extra packaging you have around the house, not everything can be recycled.

To stay on the “Nice” list, here’s a quick guide to help with the holiday clean up.

Always Nice – put these items in your blue cart	Always Naughty – keep these items out of your blue cart
Wrapping paper (crumpled into balls) Bubble wrap (bundled inside a plastic bag) Boxes Christmas cards and envelopes Gift bags (handles removed) Tissue paper	Foam packaging Ribbons and bows Decorations and ornaments Christmas lights Plastic moulded packaging Bagged recyclables

Top three holiday recycling reminders

1. Recyclables need to be loose in your blue cart, not in bags.
If you use bags to collect all the wrapping paper and boxes, remember to empty the contents of the bags into the blue cart. Recyclables need to be loose so they can be sorted by the machines at the recycling facility.

2. Not sure if an item can be recycled? Check out whatgoeswhere.ca
What Goes Where? is an online search tool that provides donation, recycling and disposal options for your holiday items.

3. Is your blue cart full? Your options for extra recyclables:

• Break down boxes to make the best use of every square inch of space inside your cart.
• Consider hanging on to your extra recyclables for next week’s collection when you have more space in your cart.
• Bring them to a nearby community recycling depot. Keep in mind that our depots fill up quickly during the holiday season, so it’s best to take note of a couple locations in case one is full.

Final weekend for Leaf and Pumpkin drop-off locations

We’re heading into the final weekend for the annual Leaf & Pumpkin Composting Program and the last opportunity for Calgarians to make use of the convenient seasonal drop-off locations for their leaves, pumpkins and storm-damaged tree debris.

Tree debris mulching at Spyhill Landfill 

The seasonal drop-off locations across the city opened earlier than usual this year to accommodate tree debris from the snow storm in September. The last day those locations will accept leaves, pumpkins and tree debris is Sunday, November 9.

“We’re grateful to our depot hosts for helping Calgarians clean up after the storm by allowing us to open early and accept huge amounts of branches in addition to the leaves and pumpkins but now they need their space back for their community activities,” said Dave Griffiths, Director of Waste & Recycling Services.

City landfills will continue to waive fees for storm-damaged tree debris until the end of December 2014 as long as loads are not mixed with garbage and other materials. City landfills will be closed on Sundays starting November 16.

If you are unable to get to the drop-off locations or landfills, you can put small branches (no thicker than three inches and cut into three-foot lengths) inside black carts, or tie them together and set the bundle next to your cart for pick up if your bin is full. However, branches put out with the garbage will not be mulched.

Aerial view of tree debris at Shepard Landfill 

As of November 3, City landfills had received almost 23 million kg (23,000 tonnes) of tree debris from the storm cleanup. That’s more material in two months than the typical amount of yard waste received in a year for mulching and about 10 times the amount of leaves and pumpkins that are collected for composting every fall. All of the tree debris will be mulched and some will be used in City parks and trails. Waste & Recycling Services will develop a broader plan over the winter for other possible uses.

Visit calgary.ca/waste or contact 311 for landfill and drop-off locations.

Curbside tree debris pick up in Calgary communities wraps up

After September’s snowstorm, The City of Calgary visited all 227 Calgary communities to help remove tree debris. This work has now been completed three weeks ahead of schedule, in part due to good weather.

“We are extremely proud to have completed this work in just four weeks,” says Nico Bernard, manager of The City’s Tactical Operations Centre. “We can now focus our attention on removing tree debris from parks and some major roads, as well as continuing to cut down branches that pose a public safety threat.”

The work entailed a systematic pass through all residential areas to pick up tree debris piled by citizens at the edge of their properties, as well as debris found along roadsides, alleys, and high-traffic pathways. More than 19 million kilograms (or 19,000 tonnes) of debris from 25,000 loads have been taken to City landfills for mulching.

If you still have tree debris, please take advantage of the following disposal options:

• City landfills: Fees are waived for all tree debris not mixed with garbage until Nov. 9.
• Leaf & Pumpkin drop-offs: 32 temporary collection sites open until Nov. 9 for tree debris, leaves and pumpkins.
• Small branches (no thicker than three inches) cut into three-foot lengths can be tied together and left inside black carts, or set next to carts for pick up if bins are full.
• Citizens are asked not to create dump sites in parks or other areas of Calgary. Illegal dumping is subject to a $250 fine.

While the systematic neighbourhood pick-up is over, there is still significant work to do to recover from the early snow and restore the urban forest.

“There are over 500,000 public trees in Calgary, and preliminary assessments indicate that about 50% have been damaged,” says Bernard. “Some trees will require corrective pruning, which Parks will begin right away and continue until the end of next year. Others will need to be replanted, which we will start in the spring and may take up to two years to complete.”

Pruning work is prioritized according to the impact on the tree. Public safety hazards are dealt with first and are removed immediately to prevent injury or damage to property.

Citizens are asked not to remove ribbons placed on trees, as they indicate a tree has received a preliminary assessment and requires pruning to build resiliency into the tree. Trees that likely won’t survive, but are not yet hazards, will have signs posted to indicate removal at a later date.

More information can be found on Calgary.ca.

Pick up, Pitch in & Pull together – recovering from early September snow

Pick up, Pitch in & Pull Together

City crews and citizens are pulling together to deal with the aftermath of the recent storm.
The City continues to have jumbo crews cleaning up priority debris in communities across Calgary. The City’s focus remains on taking care of critical safety issues and ensuring public spaces are safe and accessible.

The City has also temporarily expanded the City Links program to assist with clean up efforts.Seniors and citizens who are physically challenged and who have extensive tree damage on their properties due to the recent storm can contact 311 and ask for the “Seniors Home Maintenance” or fill out an online service request.

Tree Clean-up Frequently Asked Questions.

The City is also providing the following options to assist all Calgarians with their clean up efforts:

• All three City Landfills will accept tree debris from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Garbage and recyclables will not be accepted after 5:00 p.m. Tipping fees continue to be waived for all tree debris that is not mixed with other garbage.
• Beginning Saturday, September 13, citizens can access all 33 of The City’s leaf & pumpkin drop-off locations to dispose of damaged tree limbs. 

We would like to thank our those Community Associations who host our leaf and pumpkin drop-off locations for accommodating their early opening

Calgary’s community spirit has continued to shine through, and citizens are encouraged to help neighbours by picking up, pitching in and pulling together.

• Pick up small pieces of fallen tree debris like small branches and leaves.  Please be safe and don’t put yourself at risk by pulling down big broken branches or trying to move large pieces of fallen debris.  Move only what you can safely manage.
• Pitch in by helping your neighbours and friends and those who are unable to help themselves.  Drop off your tree debris at your local landfill or at one of the 33 convenient community drop-off locations.
• Pull together by working with your community to help those in need.  If you can help with the small debris, we can get to the big stuff faster.

The City would like to thank all Calgarians for their patience as cleanup efforts continue throughout the coming days and weeks. This effort will take time.  We encourage everyone to stay safe.  Please don’t put yourself at risk.

City offers more options to assist with clean-up efforts

City crews have made substantial progress in clearing debris related the recent snowfall. “Jumbo Teams” made up of Parks, Waste & Recycling Services and Water members will continue their efforts throughout the coming days to ensure public spaces are safe and accessible.

In addition to crews continuing their work, The City is providing the following options to assist Calgarians with their clean-up efforts:

1. Effective immediately, all three City Landfills will accept tree debris from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Garbage and recyclables will not be accepted after 5:00 p.m. Tipping fees continue to be waived for all tree debris that is not mixed with other garbage.
2. Beginning Saturday, September 13, citizens can access all 33 of The City’s leaf & pumpkin drop-off locations to dispose of damaged tree limbs. 
3. Community Cleanups are also taking place in five Calgary neighbourhoods this weekend. Each event will have an organics truck, accepting yard waste and tree debris. Schedule and locations of the cleanups can be found at calgary.ca/cleanup.

Calgary’s community spirit has continued to shine through, and citizens are encouraged to be a good neighbour. Help those who are unable to clear debris from their properties.

As a reminder, debris should be cut into no more than four foot lengths and stacked as neatly as possible close to where regular cart collection would take place without blocking lanes, roads or sidewalks. Please do not put branches or tree debris into black and blue collection carts.

The City would like to thank all Calgarians for their patience as cleanup efforts continue throughout the coming days and weeks.

Update on City response to September snow event

With power now restored to the majority of Calgarians and tree cleanup well underway, The City continues to work on the aftermath of an early snowfall.

Remaining Power Outages
Crews have worked quickly to restore service to as many as possible and are pleased to report that currently the power only remains off for approximately 1,800 customers. ENMAX is working directly with impacted households to restore service. Safety remains the priority concern and houses cannot be re-energized unless it is safe to do so. Additional crews from Edmonton service areas and contractors arrived Thursday to provide extra support to Calgary operations.

If power to an area has been restored but individual households still do not have service, repairs may be required to the individual connection point on the home itself.

Calgarians with a damaged connector (also called a “service masthead”) on their home need to hire a qualified tradesperson to complete repairs. Contractors are able to quickly apply for all necessary permits to get customers connected without delay. Calgarians remain responsible for ensuring all proper permits are obtained and should ensure their contractor has applied for the proper permits. This can be verified by contacting 311 or 403-268-5311. More information is available on Calgary.ca.

Trees and debris
Since September 9, approximately 3,830 tree emergencies were reported to 311 on both private and public property. The City remains focused on clearing those trees damaged prior to assessing any longer term impacts.

We are asking for the patience of all Calgarians as we continue cleanup efforts. The City also asks citizens to help friends and neighbours with their cleanup on private property if it is safe to do so and within their physical abilities. Please be safe when assisting others. Wear appropriate safety gear and call for help if downed branches or trees are near a power line. If it’s safe to do so:

• Collect and take tree debris directly to any of The City’s three City landfill sites and it will be accepted at no charge. The City will be mulching the debris for future use.
• Debris should be cut into no more than four foot lengths and stacked as neatly as possible close to where regular cart collection would take place. Do not block lanes, roads or sidewalks.
• Do not put branches and tree debris into black and blue collection carts. This debris clearing will operate as a separate program than regular cart collection. Put branches beside your black and blue carts.

When contacting 311, use an online solution if possible to avoid long wait times. Fill out the online form for fallen trees or download the City’s 311 mobile app for iPhone and Android to report a concern.

Residents who have already contacted the City with a tree-related complaint and nothing has changed, should avoid calling back. If a situation changes and poses an immediate danger, please call 911.

Impacted City Recreation Facilities
Recreation staff worked diligently through the day and evening to address issues at eleven arenas, aquatic facilities and Wildflower Arts Centre which were closed until Wednesday. All impacted facilities have now re-opened. Debris is also being picked up at City-operated golf courses that we aim to begin re-opening this weekend. Recreation operated athletic parks remain closed due to fallen trees and wet conditions and will be re-opened as debris is removed and conditions improve. Check our recreation facility status tool for the current status of all recreation facilities.

Due to the current closure of some City parks and pathways, outdoor events planned for this weekend may need to be relocated or cancelled. The City will continue to work with event organizers to advise of any impacts to public events.

More information updates are available at www.calgary.ca.

Tips for power interruptions

The City of Calgary continues to respond to the effects of the recent heavy snowfall. Public safety is our top priority.

Some Calgarians remain without power, and ENMAX is working quickly to restore power to affected areas. Debris from broken trees is still present and City crews are working throughout the night to clean up.

If you or someone you know is still experiencing a power outage, please consider some of the following:

• For emergency or life threatening situations - call 911
• For non urgent health advice call Health Link Alberta at 1 866 408 5465.
• Turn off or disconnect any appliances or electronic equipment you were using at the time of the outage.
• Keep one light switched on so you know when the power comes back on.
• Think safety! Do not use any gas or charcoal BBQs or devices as they can cause an increase of Carbon Monoxide gas which can result in serious and life threatening illness.
• The indoor use of candles should be avoided. Battery operated lights provide a better and safer light source.
• Generators should not be used indoors. Converse heat by keeping windows and doors closed, and paying special attention to young children, the elderly, and those with chronic medical conditions.
• With temperatures expected to hover just below 0 degrees Celsius, often wearing a hat or sweater and use of a blanket can provide enough warmth to keep you comfortable.
• Use of a battery-powered or hand-crank radio can keep you informed of important updates.
• Keep your freezer and refrigerator doors closed to keep food cold for many hours. Most food will keep in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Dairy products should be discarded after six hours. Items in the freezer will last 12 to 48 hours, depending on how full the freezer is and what kinds of food are stored inside.

Updates on ENMAX outages can be found at www.enmax.com/outages. City service updates can be accessed through www.calgary.ca.

Victoria Day 2014 hours of operation for City of Calgary facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19, 2014.

City Administrative Offices
All administrative offices will be closed on Monday, May 19 and will reopen on Tuesday, May 20.

Calgary Transit
Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on Victoria Day, May 19, 2014.

Bridgeland/Memorial Station closed from 8 p.m., on Friday May 16 to May 19
Calgary Transit will be extending the platform at Bridgeland/Memorial Station during the May long weekend. The B202 shuttle bus will connect passengers between City Hall, Bridgeland/Memorial and Barlow/Max Bell Stations. Zoo Station is accessible by CTrain from Barlow/Max Bell station only. There is no shuttle bus stop for Zoo Station.

Route 502 Heritage Park Shuttle
Schedules
Download printable map.
Heritage Park is celebrating 50 years! Visit Heritage Park's website for more information.
Weekend and Holiday service operates from Saturday, May 17 until Monday, October 13, 2014. Weekday service operates starting Tuesday, May 20 until Friday, August 29, 2014.
All regular fares apply.
For information and schedules, please visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Residential blue, black and green cart collection
Residential collection schedules for blue, black and green carts are not affected by the Victoria Day holiday.

Landfills
All City of Calgary landfills – East Calgary (3801 - 68 Street SE), Spyhill (11808 69 Street NW) and Shepard (12111 - 68 Street SE) will be open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Victoria Day.

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street SE
Sat. May, 17 & Sun., May 18: Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday, May 19: Closed
Tuesday, May 20: Open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.​

Recreation

Aquatics and Fitness Centres
Please note all Aquatics and Fitness Centres will be closed on Monday, May 19 .

Athletic Parks
All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Arenas
All Arenas are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Open Monday, May 19
Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Open Monday, May 19
Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Art Centres
North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Art Centres will be closed Saturday, May 17 through Monday, May 19. For more information please visit calgary.ca/recreation

City of Calgary Parks

Bowness Park
Bowness Park is currently closed for flood recovery and redevelopment. Parks anticipates the partial re-opening of the park this summer.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
The sanctuary's trails are currently closed, and will remain closed throughout 2014, due to flood damage. However, the Nature Centre is open, including for school groups, Tuesdays to Fridays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturdays from noon - 3:30 p.m. The Nature Centre will be closed on Victoria Day, Monday, May 19, 2014.

Devonian Gardens
Open from noon to 5 p.m.

Other Facilities

Heritage Park
Opening Weekend Summer 2014 (Historical Village)
Saturday May 17, Sunday May 18 and Monday May 19, 2014

Celebrate the long weekend by stepping back in time. The historical village's 50th summer season begins on Saturday, May 17, 2014. Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride, feast on a fresh cheese bun, experience the thrill of the antique midway or ride on our thundering steam train, as Heritage Park opens for another exciting summer!

Each day of this weekend the first 500 guests who arrive and pay regular gate admission between 9:30am and 10:00am will be treated to a complimentary pancake breakfast, served hot off the grill in the Gunn's Dairy Barn. On Victoria Day, guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea in the Wainwright hotel.We'll also have a brand new playground to enjoy, so come on by and help us kick off our 50th year in Calgary.

Calgary Zoo
Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. (Due to construction, the southwest gate will not reopen until June 15)
Concession and Retail open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily, dependent on weather
Zoo Grounds close at 6 p.m.

TELUS Spark
Victoria Day Weekend (May 17 - 19): 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Fort Calgary
Mountie Day: May 19
Celebrate the anniversary of the formation of the RCMP with cake and family friendly activities from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. All activities are included with paid admission.

Green your spring cleaning by composting yard waste

This spring, Calgarians are encouraged to drop off their yard waste at City landfills for free so it can be composted instead of thrown away.

Between April 18 and June 1, all three City of Calgary landfills will waive fees for residential loads of leaves, branches, plants and other yard and garden material. The material will be composted at the sites, turning it back into a useful resource.

“Yard waste makes up over one third of residential garbage during this time of year,” says waste diversion specialist Lindsay Seidel-Wassenaar. “When it gets buried in the landfill, it can’t be turned into soil or compost due to the lack of oxygen. It takes decades to decompose while producing harmful greenhouse gases. Composting makes fallen leaves, branches and other yard waste useful again and turns it into a product that will help new plants to grow.”

Here are three tips for Calgarians to know about the spring yard waste program before they come to the landfill:

1. Make sure your load only contains yard waste like leaves, branches and plants (no sod – it can’t be composted). Charges will apply if the load contains other items.
2. Residents are encouraged to leave their material loose or put it in paper yard waste bags, which can be composted as well. If loads are loose, residents should make sure they are secure before transporting them.
3. Before leaving for the landfill, people are encouraged to visit calgary.ca/waste or contact 311 to confirm landfill hours, locations and other details.  The service is intended for residents only.

Find more info on the spring yard waste page on calgary.ca

Family Day 2014 Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 17, 2014.

Calgary Transit
Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on Family Day, Monday, Feb. 17.

For more information on fares, schedules and a complete listing of holiday service adjustments, visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Recreation

Aquatics and Fitness Centres:

Free public swimming from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and from 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.on Family Day at:

• Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
• Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
• Glenmore Aquatic Centre
• Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre
• Shouldice Aquatic Centre
• Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Leisure Centres:

Village Square Leisure Centre
Family Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Family Day Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arenas:

The following Arenas are offering Free public skating from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Family Day:

• Ernie Starr Arena
• Frank McCool Arena
• Murray Copot Arena
• Optimist Arena
• Jimmie Condon Arena
• Shouldice Arena
• Henry Viney Arena
• Stu Peppard Arena 

Art Centres:
The North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres will be closed from Saturday, Feb. 15 - Monday Feb. 17.

Athletic Parks:
All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Parks

Nature Centre – Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
October – April:
Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday and statutory holidays.

Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens follow the same hours as the CORE Shopping Centre.
Family Day: open 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street SE

Monday to Friday: open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Family Day: closed

Residential Waste & Recycling Collection
Residential waste & recycling collection is not affected on the Family Day holiday.

Landfills:

Spyhill Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Closed: Sundays and Family Day.

East Calgary Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Family Day.
Closed: Sunday.

Shepard Landfill
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday.
Closed: Sundays and Family Day.

Administrative Offices

Administrative offices including the Municipal Building will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17.

Calgary Zoo

Gates & Services
9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Concession and retail locations vary during the winter period.
Buildings
Savannah, TransAlta Rainforest and Elephant Crossing 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Penguin Plunge last entrance at 4:15 p.m.; building closes at 4:30 p.m.
Park Hours
9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Heritage Park

Over the winter, Heritage Town Square and Gasoline Alley Museum are open, while the Historical Village is closed for the season.  Heritage Town Square, loaded with great shopping, restaurant and a 2-acre nature park, is located before the gates and is a FREE ZONE. The cost of Winter admission includes access to Gasoline Alley Museum, where guests can explore the rare and stunning antique vehicle collection, as well as the world’s largest public petroliana display.

Holiday Season 2013 Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities during the holiday season.

Calgary Transit

Holiday service is effective Tuesday, December 24 - Monday, January 6. Schedules have been adjusted to exclude all school trips.

Christmas Eve: Tuesday, December 24: regular weekday service.

Christmas Day: Wednesday, December 25: ride free all day.

Boxing Day: Thursday, December 26: Sunday level of service.

New Year's Eve: Tuesday, December 31: Ride free after 6 p.m. Regular weekday service with additional buses and CTrains leaving downtown at 12:30 a.m.

Last scheduled CTrain times from downtown:

• From City Hall to Somerset Bridlewood Station - 1:45 a.m.
• From City Hall to Saddletowne Station - 1:49 a.m.
• From 7 Street W Station to 69 Street Station - 1:06 a.m. 
• From 7 Street W Station to Crowfoot Station - 12:57 a.m.

New Year's Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2014: Sunday level of service.

Effective January 1, 2014 Calgary Transit Youth fares will increase from $1.75 to $2.00 and Adult monthly passes will increase from $94  to $96.

For more information on fares, schedules and a complete listing of holiday service adjustments, visit calgarytransit.com, call Teleride at 403-974-4000, or Calgary Transit Customer Service at 403-262-1000.

Residential Waste & Recycling Collection

Is Wednesday your regular garbage and recycling collection day?
If the answer is yes, there will be temporary changes to your collection schedule for the 2013 holidays.
Instead of Wednesday, please put your blue and black carts out on the following days:

• Monday, December 23, 2013
• Monday, December 30, 2013

Regular waste and recycling collection will resume on Wednesday, January 8, 2014.

There are no changes to Tuesday, Thursday or Friday collection over the holidays.

Community Recycling Depots
Collection at Community Recycling Depots is not affected during the Holiday season.
Landfills

Spyhill Landfill 
(11808 - 69 Street NW)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Boxing Day.

East Calgary Landfill 
(3801 - 68 Street SE)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Remembrance Day, Boxing Day and Family Day.
Shepard Landfill
(12111 - 68 Street SE)

Nov. 1, 2013 to Mar. 31, 2014
Open: 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Open on Boxing Day.

Recreation

Arenas
All arenas are closed, Christmas Day, Wed., Dec. 25, 2013.

The following Arenas are offering Free Public Skate from 1-2:30 p.m. on Boxing Day (Thurs., Dec. 26):

• Ernie Starr Arena
• Frank McCool Arena
• Murray Copot Arena
• Optimist Arena
• Jimmie Condon Arena
• Shouldice Arena
• Henry Viney Arena
• Stu Peppard Arena 

Fitness and Aquatic Centres

All Fitness and Aquatic Centres are closed Wed., Dec. 25, Thurs., Dec. 26 and Wed., Jan. 1.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Tues., Dec. 24: 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Thurs., Dec. 26: Closed
Tues., Dec. 23: 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
New Year’s Eve Family Pool Party! 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Southland Leisure Centre
Tues., Dec. 24: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 25: Closed
Thurs., Dec. 26: Closed
Tues., Dec. 31: 5:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Wed., Jan. 1: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Arts Centres
North Mount Pleasant Arts Centre is now closed through January 1, 2014.
Wildflower Arts Centre is closed from December 21, 2013 through January 5, 2014.

Parks

Nature Centre – Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
October – April:
Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday and statutory holidays

Devonian Gardens
Devonian Gardens follow the same hours as the CORE Shopping Centre

Christmas Eve: 9:30 a.m.  – 5 p.m.
Christmas Day: Closed
Boxing Day: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
New Year’s Eve: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
New Year’s Day: Closed

Animal Services Centre
2201 Portland Street S.E.

Tues., December 24:  8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Wed., December 25:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – Christmas Day
Thurs., Dec. 26:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – Boxing Day
Wed., January 1, 2014:  CLOSED/Statutory Holiday – New Year’s Day

Administrative Offices
Administrative offices including the Municipal Building  will be open from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Tues., Dec. 24, 2013 (Christmas Eve), and closed on Wed., Dec. 25, 2013 (Christmas Day), Thurs., Dec. 26, 2013 (Boxing Day) and Wed., Jan. 1, 2014 (New Years Day).

Calgary Zoo/Zoo Lights

Closed Christmas Day

Zoo Lights: 6 – 9 p.m. nightly through January 4, 2014 (Excluding Christmas Day and December 31)
Gates close at 8:30 p.m.
North Gate entrance ONLY

Zoo Year’s Eve – December 31
A family friendly way to roar in the New Year. Little party animals, mom and dad will enjoy the Zoolights displays, fireworks show, Kids Zone and some wild entertainment. Fire pits and hot chocolate are available to keep everyone warm and toasty.

Once Upon a Christmas at Heritage Park

Weekends through December 22, 2013
9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Take a step back into true holiday enchantment by going for a wagon ride, singing carols or visiting jolly old Saint Nick himself. Experience the magic of Christmas past as three of our historical family homes open their doors to share their Yuletide traditions.

Fort Calgary
Open daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed December 24, 25, 26, 31 and January 1.

Remembrance Day 2013 Events & Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Remembrance Day, Monday, November 11, 2013.

Calgary Transit

Calgary Transit will provide a Saturday level of service on Remembrance Day.

For more information and schedules, please visit calgarytransit.com.

Community Recycling Depots

Collection at Community Recycling Depots is not affected by the Remembrance Day holiday.

Residential blue, black and green cart collection

Residential collection schedules for blue, black and green carts are not affected by the Remembrance Day holiday.

Landfills

East Calgary Landfill (3801 - 68 Street S.E.)
Remembrance Day: OPEN 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Spyhill Landfill (11808 69 Street N.W.)
Remembrance Day: CLOSED

Shepard Landfill (12111 - 68 Street S.E.)
Remembrance Day: CLOSED

Animal Services Centre - 2201 Portland Street S.E.

Saturday, November 9: Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, November 10:  Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday, November 11:  Closed
Tuesday, November 12:  Open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Recreation

For more information please visit calgary.ca/recreation.

Athletic Parks 

All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Aquatics & Fitness Centres

The following Aquatic & Fitness Centres are open for Free Swim 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Remembrance Day, November 11.

Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre
Canyon Meadows Aquatic & Fitness Centre
Glenmore Aquatic Centre
Renfrew Aquatic & Recreation Centre
Shouldice Aquatic Centre
Sir Winston Churchill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Arenas

The following Arenas are offering Free Public Skate from 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. on Remembrance Day, November 11.

Ernie Starr Arena
Frank McCool Arena
Murray Copot Arena
Optimist Arena
Jimmie Condon Arena
Shouldice Arena
Henry Viney Arena
Stu Peppard Arena

For more information, please visit: www.calgary.ca/arenas.

Southland Leisure Centre

Southland Leisure Centre will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Remembrance Day.

Village Square Leisure Centre

Village Square Leisure Centre will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Remembrance Day.

Arts Centres

North Mount Pleasant Arts Centre is open on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10. Closed for Remembrance Day, Monday, November 11.

Wildflower Arts Centre is open on Saturday, November 9.  Closed for Sunday, November 10 and for Remembrance Day, Monday, November 11.

City of Calgary Parks

Bowness Park 

Bowness Park is closed for flood recovery and redevelopment.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

The Nature Centre is closed for Remembrance Day. The sanctuary (trails) are also closed until further notice due to flood damage.

Devonian Gardens

Open from noon to 5 p.m.

City Administrative Offices

All administrative offices will be closed on Monday, November 11 and will reopen on Tuesday, November 12.

Other Facilities

Fort Calgary
Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Heritage Park
Heritage Park is open  daily from October 15 – December 31.

Gasoline Alley Museum and Historical Village: open daily 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Haskayne Mercantile Block: Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Railway Café: Open 9:00 a.m.  – 5:30 p.m.
Park Lane Portrait Studio: Monday through Friday by appointment only (403-268-8561). Open Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Selkirk Grille: Open  daily for lunch. Tuesday – Sunday for dinner. Reservations recommended.

Deane House

 The Dean House is closed for renovations until Fall 2014.

Calgary Zoo

Due to considerable damage caused by the June 2013 flood The Calgary Zoo is only partially open. Penguin Plunge, Canadian Wilds and Prehistoric Park will be available for viewing.

The zoo is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Gates close at 4 p.m.

TELUS Spark

Sunday – Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Regular Admission Applies.

Remembrance Day Events

The City of Calgary would like to remind Calgarians of the variety of venues that will be hosting  Remembrance Day services this year including:

Battalion Park
3001 Signal Hill Dr. S.W.
Service begins at 10:30 a.m.

Memorial Drive Cross Project 
Place a cross for each Southern Albertan killed in action in any war or peacekeeping activity between now and November 11. Service begins at 11:00 a.m. on Remembrance Day.
Location: On the north side of Memorial Dr. West of Centre Street

Remembrance Day Parade
Central Memorial Park - 1221 2 St SW
Ceremony begins at 10 a.m.

Queens’s Park Cemetery
3219  4 St. N.W.
Service begins at 11 a.m.

Jubilee Auditorium
14th Street and 16th Avenue N.W.
Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
Ceremony begins at 10:30 a.m.

Aerospace Museum
4629 McCall Way N.E.
Service begins at 10:30 a.m.

The Military Museums
44520 Crowchild Trail S.W.
Service begins at 10:45 a.m. The museum will be open regular business hours 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free.

Coffee and hot chocolate will also be available.

Calgary International Airport 
Main Terminal Departures Level
Services begins at 10:30 a.m.

City Matters: The City's Leaf & Pumpkin Compost Program

Give your Jack ‘o’ Lanterns and pumpkins back to nature with the City of Calgary’s Leaf & Pumpkin Composting program.

Until November 10th, bring your bagged leaves and pumpkins to any City of Calgary Leaf & Pumpkin drop-off location.  Rather than sending it to the landfill where it can’t biodegrade we’ll turn it into nutrient-rich compost.

To learn more about the value of compost or to find a drop-off location near you, visit calgary.ca/waste.

Report to Calgarians: The Annual Leaf & Pumpkin Composting Program

This autumn, help keep waste out of the landfill by participating in The City’s annual Leaf & Pumpkin Composting Program.

Bring leaves and pumpkins to any City of Calgary seasonal drop-off location until Sunday, November 10th.

For more information on the program, including drop-off locations, visit calgary.ca/waste.

Thanksgiving 2013 Holiday Hours of Operation for City of Calgary Facilities

The City of Calgary is adjusting its hours of operation for services and facilities on Thanksgiving Day, Monday, October, 14.

Calgary Transit

Calgary Transit will provide a Sunday level of service on Thanksgiving and the Call Centre will be closed.

Service Disruptions:

Calgary Transit will be performing maintenance over the long weekend Saturday October 12 - Monday, October 14. CTrain stations between Marlborough and City Hall will be closed. CTrain service between these stations will be replaced with shuttle bus service.

The B202 CTrain Shuttle Bus will be servicing: Marlborough, Franklin,Barlow/Max Bell, Calgary Zoo, Bridgeland and City Hall Stations.

The X202 Express CTrain Shuttle Bus will provide direct transit service between Marlborough and City Hall Stations.

For more information and schedules, please visit calgarytransit.com .

Community Recycling Depots

Collection at Community Recycling Depots is not affected by the Thanksgiving holiday.

Residential blue, black and green cart collection

Residential collection schedules for blue, black and green carts are not affected by the Thanksgiving holiday.

Landfills

East Calgary Landfill (3801 - 68 Street S.E.)
Thanksgiving Day: Open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Spyhill Landfill (11808 69 Street N.W.)
Thanksgiving Day: Open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Shepard Landfill (12111 - 68 Street S.E.)
Thanksgiving Day: Open 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Animal Services Centre - 2201 Portland Street S.E.
Saturday, October 12: Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, October 13:  Open 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Monday, October 14:  Closed
Tuesday, October 15:  Open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Recreation
For more information please visit calgary.ca/recreation.

Athletic Parks 
All Athletic Parks are closed, except for any advanced bookings.

Aquatics and Fitness Centres

The following Aquatic and Fitness Centres are open for Free Swim 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, October, 14.

Acadia Aquatic & Fitness Centre
Foothills Aquatic Centre
Inglewood Aquatic Centre
Killarney Aquatic & Recreation Centre
Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre

Arenas

The following Arenas are offering Free Public Skate from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, October, 14.

Ernie Starr Arena
Frank McCool Arena
Murray Copot Arena
Optimist/George Blundun Arena
Rose Kohn/Jimmie Condon Arena
Shouldice Arena
Stew Hendry/Henry Viney Arena
Stu Peppard Arena 

For more information, please visit:  www.calgary.ca/arenas.

Southland Leisure Centre
Southland Leisure Centre will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

Village Square Leisure Centre
Village Square Leisure Centre will be open 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.
Public Skate:  12:30 – 2 p.m.
Shinny Hockey: 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Art Centres
The North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres will be closed from Saturday, October 12  - Monday October 14.

City of Calgary Parks

Bowness Park 
Bowness Park is closed for flood recovery and redevelopment.

Inglewood Bird Sanctuary
The Nature Centre is closed for Thanksgiving. The sanctuary (trails) are also closed until further notice due to flood damage; however, guided tours are available and can be booked online.

Devonian Gardens
Open from noon to 5 p.m.

City Administrative Offices

All administrative offices will be closed on Monday October 14 and will reopen on Tuesday, October 15.

Other Facilities

Fort Calgary
Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Heritage Park
Heritage Park is open weekdays only September 3 – October 14 and daily October 15 – December 31.

Gasoline Alley Museum and Historical Village: open daily 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Haskayne Mercantile Block: Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Railway Café: Open 9:00 a.m.  – 4 p.m.
Park Lane Portrait Studio: by appointment only:  403-268-8561
Selkirk Grille: Open 11:00 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily for lunch. Tuesday – Sunday from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. for dinner. Reservations recommended.

Deane House
The Dean House is closed for renovations until Fall 2014.

Calgary Zoo
Due to considerable damage caused by the June 2013 flood The Calgary Zoo is only partially open. Penguin Plunge, Canadian Wilds and Prehistoric Park will be available for viewing.

The zoo is open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Gates close at 4 p.m.

TELUS Spark
Monday, October 14:  Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Regular Admission Applies.

City Matters: Blue Cart Recycling Tips

Now in its fifth year, The City’s Blue Cart Recycling Program is helping to reach our goal of keeping 80 per cent of waste out of landfills by 2020.

To make the most of your recycling, it’s important to keep recyclables loose in your blue cart. The only exceptions are plastic bags, which should be bundled together in a single plastic bag and tied closed and shredded paper, which needs to be gathered in a clear plastic bag and tied closed.

For more helpful recycling tips, visit calgary.ca/waste.

Report to Calgarians: Safe Disposal of Household Hazardous Waste

If you have leftover Household Hazardous Waste, it’s important to dispose of it properly to ensure your safety, the safety of others and of the environment.

You can drop-off old chemicals at any of The City of Calgary’s Household Hazardous Waste drop-offs, but before heading out please ensure the items are properly packaged in sealed containers and labelled correctly.

To find out more about safe disposal including drop-off locations, visit calgary.ca/waste.