Trash & Recycling in Critter Country

Only YOU can help us keep the forest healthy!

We understand taking out the trash is the least enjoyable part of your stay. This post will provide you with information regarding our recycling instructions and our specialized garbage can, to help get you on your way as quickly as possible.

Around the cabin you are always sure to see squirrels, deer, rabbits and other animals from dawn to dusk. In the past few years our area has seen a dramatic increase in visits from larger animals as well, such as bears and mountain lions. These animals are opportunistic and drawn to odors from garbage cans. They know to knock over the cans to get to the goodies inside, leaving a mess scattered all over the forest floor that is difficult to clean up. More importantly, the animals ingest human food scraps and trash which isn't good for them.

At Gold Creek Cabin, we use a bear-resistant outdoor garbage can. This can has a locking mechanism - simple for humans to access the can, difficult for bears! Follow these simple steps to help us keep the animals, and our forest, safe and healthy.

Garbage. Bag all trash and seal/tie tightly against leaks. Please do not put any loose trash in the garbage can, especially anything soiled with food. Place trash bags in the can across the driveway upon your departure, ensuring bags are upright and the can locks upon closing. To open the can, simply squeeze the knob on the front of the can with one hand and lift the lid with your other hand.

Recycling. Cans and bottles should be fully rinsed, and all recycling should be free of food/drink residue. Anything soiled with food should be treated as garbage. Collect rinsed recycling into the orange bags and tie to close. Place bags in the recycling cart across the driveway upon your departure, ensuring bags are upright. Please note that our recycling cart is NOT bear-resistant.

Amador County recycles the following materials:

• All paper products, including egg cartons and corrugated cardboard
• Glass
• Plastic
• Aluminum and tin containers
  

As much as all these efforts have helped, our system isn't fool proof. Here is our prior bear-resistant trash cart after a very determined bear had his way:

With your assistance, we can keep our beloved forest healthy!