“We think it’s been a great service over the years and we know people will miss it. We aren’t sure if anyone else will offer curbside pickup, but either way we hope people will still continue to recycle.”

Boissevain-Morton Head of Council Judy Swanson said she was disappointed to hear the news but definitely understood the Pattersons’ wanted to move on. After the collection stops, people will have to take their recycling to bins, and unfortunately that is difficult for some. She said council approached the volunteer recycling group, who operate the plant on the north edge of town, to inquire about what they thought of the situation, whether or not they felt some sort of curbside pick up would be worthwhile.

“That’s where we’re at,” Swanson stated. “We asked them and want them to have a look at it, then get back to us.”

Patterson said they greatly appreciate the work Boissevain-Morton and the recycling volunteers have put in to keep things out of the landfill site, an their employees Gib Beard and Bob Barwick have put in picking up recyclables, as well as the others who have helped over the years including family.

“They are the ones out there every Thursday, rain or shine, hot, cold or windy! Thanks to their dedication, we only ever had to cancel pickup once in 33 years due to a huge blizzard,” Patterson stated.

The last pick up day is September 24.

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff