Ramona Residents Adapt to Recycling and Organic Waste Programs

Some confusion remains, but overall the programs are seeing good participation.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Ramona residents are making good use of the green organic waste and blue recycling bins that have been available for almost five years, though mix-ups frequently occur as some items are placed in the wrong bins. State law requires residents to collect food and organic waste, which is then recycled into various products. Ramona Disposal Service's field operations officer Susan White says there is still some confusion, leading to cross-contamination, but the programs are doing well overall.

Why it matters

Proper recycling and organic waste management are important for reducing waste and creating sustainable products. However, confusion around what goes in each bin can undermine the effectiveness of these programs. Educating residents is key to ensuring high participation and reducing contamination.

The details

Ramona Disposal Service has three separate trucks - one for trash, one for recycling, and one for organic waste. Items are then taken to source separation centers where they are sorted, with some non-recyclable or misplaced items sorted by hand. Confusion often centers around what items are allowed in the organic waste bins versus the recycling bins, as well as how to handle unusual items like Styrofoam, chicken wire, and pet medication containers.

  • State Law SD 1383 requiring organic waste collection has been in effect for almost five years.

The players

Susan White

Field operations officer at Ramona Disposal Service.

Ramona Disposal Service

The waste management company serving the Ramona, California area.

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What they’re saying

“Some people think we go through the entire pile of trash and dig everything out for the recycling program, but we don't pick through every little piece.”

— Susan White, Field operations officer (sandiegouniontribune.com)

“Organic material can be loose in the bin. Some people don't like to do that because of concerns about the mess or potential odor, but it's okay for it to be loose.”

— Susan White, Field operations officer (sandiegouniontribune.com)

What’s next

Ramona Disposal Service plans to continue educating residents on proper recycling and organic waste sorting through their website, social media, and direct outreach.

The takeaway

While some confusion remains, Ramona's recycling and organic waste programs are seeing good participation overall. Ongoing education and clear communication from the waste management provider will be key to further improving the effectiveness of these sustainability initiatives.