Last summer we sent out a trash-themed newsletter highlighting efforts to improve sanitation in our neighborhood.  We continue to partner with city agencies to help clean up our neighborhood, but we can't do it alone.  Here are some tips and resources to help you help fix the problem!

How many times have you added your small piece of trash to an already overflowing trash bin?  Admit it, we've all done it.  But every piece adds up (check out these pictures as proof.)  Please make the extra effort to find an emptier bin. There's usually one right across the street!

The Department of Sanitation works hard to pick up all the city trash at least once per day.  But sometimes, pick-ups are missed.  Please report overflowing trash bins on the 311 website. When 311 gets lots of reports about the same problematic area, DSNY is more likely to take notice. 

Did you know that only 10% of our city's trash is placed in containers? It didn't use to be that way!  Read why NYC went the way of trash bags over bins and join the growing movement to bring back more containers.

CM Restler is prioritizing sanitation, including purchasing new rat-proof litter bins for our neighborhood (the BHA helped select the locations) and is advocating for containerization programs. Let his office know this is something you support. We are proud that Montague Street is piloting the clean curbs program, and we can continue to lead the way.

Overflowing trash bins are ugly, but even worse, they are rat magnets! Learn how you can do your part to help mitigate the situation.  Get your neighbors together and attend a free Rat Academy Training on Thursday, February 9th from 5-7pm. Advance registration is required.  You can also learn more about how to file a 311 Rat Complaint and what happens next here.

Did you know that one of the most important actions we can take to eliminate the rat buffet is to compost? It's also a great way to keep waste out of landfills and reduce greenhouse gasses. Sign up here to learn more about District 33's Compost Program and how to participate!

Thank you to the many volunteers who joined neighborhood clean up events last spring and summer in the Heights. But, you don't need to wait for the next event to help out! Occasionally, we spot a few members of our community with handy trash grabbers like this one on the Promenade or outside their building.  Imagine if everyone dedicated 15 minutes a month to picking up trash!  Do you hear the happy music playing? We do!