A Major Step Forward in Local Sustainability

Ventura County has taken a major leap toward a greener future with the official opening of Agromin’s Mountain View Organic Waste Processing Facility in Oxnard. The new facility, built in partnership with E.J. Harrison & Sons and Gold Coast Recycling, significantly expands local food waste recycling and ensures compliance with California Senate Bill 1383.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held Tuesday, Nov. 4, was hosted by the Ventura Chamber of Commerce and the West Ventura County Business Alliance, with dozens of city and county leaders in attendance. 

Expanding Food Waste Recycling in Ventura County

The state-of-the-art Mountain View facility can process up to 300 tons of food waste per day. Using an advanced system of machinery, it separates contaminants such as glass, plastic, and metal before transforming the organic material into a clean slurry. This slurry is then repurposed for animal feed, organic fertilizer, or renewable energy production.

“This system allows Ventura County and all of its 10 cities to be in compliance with SB 1383,” said Agromin CEO Bill Camarillo. “It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and preserves the life of our landfills.”

Eight Years of Collaboration Pay Off

The Mountain View project represents nearly a decade of dedication and partnership between Agromin and Harrison Industries.
“We embarked on this journey in 2017,” Camarillo said. “We faced a pandemic, supply chain issues, and inflation—but we finished it. The system works fantastic.”

Local Leaders Applaud the Project

Officials from across Ventura County praised the milestone achievement.
“Oxnard has always been home to innovation, and this project proves it,” said Councilmember Bert Perello. “Harrison and Agromin never backed away from progress.”

Ventura Deputy Mayor Doug Halter added, “What Agromin and Harrison have done for our community and for sustainability gives me hope. They continue to lead by example.”

During the ceremony, proclamations were presented to Harrison President Jim Harrison, Nan Drake, and Agromin’s Bill Camarillo by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and city officials from Ventura, Oxnard, Camarillo, and Fillmore.

Advancing SB 1383 Compliance and Environmental Goals

California’s SB 1383 requires a 75% reduction in organic waste sent to landfills by 2025. The Mountain View facility helps Ventura County meet this target by turning food waste into reusable resources that prevent methane emissions and contribute to a circular economy.

For residents and businesses served by E.J. Harrison & Sons, this expansion means greater local capacity for food waste processing—and a major step toward a cleaner, more sustainable Ventura County.

Learn More About Food Waste Recycling

To learn how to recycle food waste at home or at your business, visit ejharrison.com/food-waste.

Photos by Brendan Daly / WhizCom Marketing

Trash Collection Schedule to Remain Unchanged for Veterans Day

Harrison Industries will maintain its regular trash, recycling, and yard/organics waste collection schedule during the week of Veterans Day, November 9–15. The holiday falls on Tuesday, November 11, and all customers can expect normal pickup service on their regular collection day.

Weekly Waste and Food Waste Collection

Harrison’s residential customers are reminded that all three carts — trash, recycling, and yard/organics waste — are collected every week. This includes food waste, which is recyclable under California state law.

To help prevent contamination, place all food waste in closed paper or plastic bags before tossing it into your organics waste cart. This step ensures food waste and yard waste are processed separately and efficiently.

Even if you don’t have yard waste, please continue setting out your organics cart weekly with your bagged food waste inside. Every pickup helps keep waste out of landfills and supports local sustainability goals.

Why Food Waste Recycling Matters

Since 2022, California has required the diversion of food waste from landfills. This initiative is designed to reduce harmful methane emissions — a powerful greenhouse gas produced as food decomposes in landfills.

By recycling food waste every week, you help:

• Reduce greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming

• Protect local air quality

• Conserve natural resources

• Support a more sustainable future for Ventura County

Recycling your food waste isn’t just the law — it’s one of the most effective ways to protect the environment. Thank you for doing your part to make food waste recycling a regular habit.

Learn More

For more details about Harrison’s food waste recycling program, including tips on what can and cannot go in your organics waste cart, visit:
https://ejharrison.com/residential-food-waste/

Trash Collection to Continue as Scheduled on Indigenous Peoples Day

Harrison Industries will maintain its regular trash, recycling and yard/organics waste collection schedule in Ventura County for Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025. The holiday is observed annually on the second Monday of October, and while many government offices and businesses close, Harrison’s collection schedule will remain uninterrupted.

This means customers can expect normal service on their regular collection day throughout the week.

Weekly Collection Reminder

Harrison’s residential customers can place all three carts — trash, recycling, and yard/organics waste — curbside every week. This includes the collection of food waste, which is recyclable and required to be kept out of landfills under California state law.

To help prevent contamination, food waste should always be placed in closed paper or plastic bags before being tossed into your organics waste cart. This ensures that food waste and yard waste can be processed separately and efficiently.

Why Food Waste Recycling Matters

In 2022, California enacted new requirements mandating the diversion of food waste from landfills. These rules are part of the state’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. When food waste sits in landfills, it produces methane gas — a potent greenhouse gas that damages our atmosphere and accelerates global warming.

By recycling food waste every week, Harrison customers are helping to:

• Reduce harmful emissions

• Support cleaner air in our communities

• Contribute to the creation of nutrient-rich compost and renewable energy

Even if you don’t have yard waste to set out, you can — and should — still place your bagged food waste in the organics cart every week for collection.

Your Role in a Sustainable Future

Food waste recycling isn’t just the law — it’s an everyday responsibility we all share to protect the environment. By consistently separating and recycling food waste, Harrison customers play a key role in making Ventura County a cleaner, greener place to live.

We thank you for doing your part and encourage you to keep building this simple but powerful habit into your weekly routine.

Learn More

For details about Harrison’s food waste recycling program and tips on proper separation,

visit: Harrison Residential Food Waste Program

Each September, communities across California come together to protect our beaches, waterways, and oceans during California Coastal Cleanup Day. This year, the event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 9 a.m. to noon, and E.J. Harrison & Sons team members will proudly join thousands of volunteers in Ventura County and beyond.

Our beaches, creeks, and watersheds are part of what makes living here so special. Coastal Cleanup Day is a chance to give back and help ensure that these natural spaces remain clean and beautiful for generations to come.

A Tradition of Success in Ventura County

For decades, Ventura County has been a leader in Coastal Cleanup efforts. Last year alone:

• 1,162 volunteers participated in the cleanup.

• Together, they collected 12,725 pounds of trash and recyclables.

With your help, we can make 2025’s cleanup even more successful!

Two Ways to Get Involved

Whether you have time on Sept. 20 or want to participate on your own schedule, there are flexible ways to take part in Coastal Cleanup Day.

1. Join a Local Cleanup Site

• Choose a site near you and volunteer on Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to noon.

• Bring your own supplies if possible — bucket, gloves, water bottle, and a hat — to help reduce waste.

• Don’t forget to print and sign the waiver at vccoastcleanup.org/get-involved.

• Pre-registration is not required! Find cleanup locations at vccoastcleanup.org/cleanup-sites.

2. Organize a Self-Guided Cleanup

Can’t make it on Sept. 20? No problem. You can still make a difference:

• Host a cleanup in your neighborhood, local park, or favorite trail anytime in September.

• Track and report your progress with the free CleanSwell app.

• Access additional self-guided cleanup tips at vccoastcleanup.org/get-involved.

Why Your Participation Matters

Every piece of litter collected prevents harmful materials from reaching the ocean, where they can threaten marine life and ecosystems. Small actions, when multiplied across our community, create a powerful impact.

By volunteering for Coastal Cleanup Day in Ventura County, you’re joining a global movement to protect our environment.

Join Us This September

E.J. Harrison & Sons is proud to continue supporting this important tradition, and we invite you to participate with us. Together, we can keep our beaches and waterways clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Learn more and find your cleanup site at vccoastcleanup.org.

Each week, you place your trash, recyclables, green waste, and food waste into the proper E.J. Harrison & Sons carts, close the lids, and roll them to the curb. Your part is simple — but what happens next is worth celebrating.

For more than 35 years, Harrison Industries, Gold Coast Recycling, and Agromin have worked together to keep Ventura County and surrounding communities at the forefront of California’s recycling movement.

How Harrison Industries Helped Lead California’s Recycling Movement

In 1989, California Assembly Bill 939 introduced bold recycling mandates, requiring cities and counties to divert 25% of solid waste from landfills by 1995 and 50% by 2000.

That same year, Gold Coast Recycling (GCR) opened its doors in Ventura with the purpose of helping cities meet those mandates. GCR was the first facility in the state permitted under the new law, setting the stage for decades of progress.

The Role of Agromin in Organics Recycling

While GCR was pioneering recycling processing, Agromin was building a future for organics. Having started in 1972 as a small soil company, Agromin expanded in 1990 to produce rich, chemical-free compost and mulch from community green waste and food scraps.

Today, Agromin transforms thousands of tons of organics each year into healthy soil products used in landscaping and agriculture across California.

Where Your Recyclables and Organics Go

• Recyclables: The items in your blue cart are collected by Harrison trucks and processed at GCR’s 7.8-acre Colt Street facility in Ventura, which handles more than 90,000 tons annually.

• Green waste: Yard trimmings from your organics cart are sorted at GCR, then transported to Limoneira in Santa Paula for composting.

• Food waste: Bagged food scraps are sent to Agromin’s facility at the Simi Valley Landfill, where they are decontaminated, blended with mulch, and composted in Kern County.

Instead of ending up in landfills, these materials return to the environment as valuable soil amendments.

Communities Served

Together, Harrison, GCR, and Agromin proudly serve:

• The unincorporated areas of Ventura County

• The cities of Ventura, Ojai, Camarillo, Fillmore

• Channel Islands Beach Community Services District

• CSU Channel Islands

• The city of Carpinteria in Santa Barbara County

Your Role in the Recycling Partnership

By simply putting waste in the right cart, you are a vital part of this partnership. Every bag of food scraps and every bin of recyclables contributes to cleaner communities, reduced landfill use, and healthier soil for agriculture.

Together, we’ve built one of California’s most effective recycling systems — and with your continued participation, the future is even brighter.

Learn More

👉 Residential Food Waste Recycling Instructions

Refuse Collection Delayed One Day for Labor Day

In observance of Labor Day, employees of Harrison Industries will be off on Monday, September 1. As a result, all trash, recycling, and yard/organics collection will be delayed by one day during the week of August 31 – September 6. Regular service returns the following week.

Holiday Week Collection Schedule

• Monday routes → Tuesday

• Tuesday routes → Wednesday

• Wednesday routes → Thursday

• Thursday routes → Friday

• Friday routes → Saturday

Tip: Set a reminder the night before your adjusted pickup day so you don’t miss service. View our Holiday Schedule here.

Set Out All Three Carts Weekly

Harrison collects trash, recycling, and organics every week. Residents can—and should—place all three carts curbside weekly, including food waste in the organics cart.

• Food waste is collected every week as part of organics service.

• Even without yard trimmings, still set out your organics cart with bagged food waste.

How to Prepare Food Waste Correctly

• Place food scraps in closed paper or plastic bags to prevent mess and odors.

• Put bagged food waste into your organics cart.

• Keep recycling clean and dry; do not place food or liquids in your blue recycling cart.

• Trash is for non-recyclable, non-organic material only.

This prevents contamination because food waste and yard waste are processed separately.

Why Weekly Food Waste Recycling Matters

Since 2022, California law requires diverting food waste from landfills. Beyond compliance, weekly food waste recycling helps protect the environment.

• Reduces methane emissions: Food decomposing in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

• Supports climate goals: Proper organics recycling lowers your household’s carbon footprint.

• Builds lasting habits: Setting out the organics cart weekly makes recycling second nature.

Quick Checklist for Holiday Week

• Confirm your shifted pickup day above.

• Bag food scraps (paper or plastic), then place in the organics cart.

• Set out all three carts—trash, recycling, organics—one day later than usual.

• Resume your normal schedule the following week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Monday collection move to Tuesday?
Yes. Each collection day shifts forward by one day during the week of August 31 – September 6. Friday moves to Saturday.

What if I only have food waste and no yard trimmings?
Still set out your organics cart weekly. Place food scraps in closed paper or plastic bags and put them in the organics cart.

Are plastic bags allowed for food waste?
Yes. Food waste should be placed in closed paper or plastic bags before being tossed into the organics cart. This helps keep carts clean and prevents contamination during processing.

Why is weekly set-out important?
Weekly set-out prevents odors, reduces pests, and ensures consistent diversion of food waste from landfills to meet state requirements and environmental goals.

When does the regular schedule resume?
The regular schedule resumes the week after the Labor Day holiday week.

Thank You for Doing Your Part

Your participation keeps our communities clean and helps reduce methane emissions. Food waste recycling is required by law and makes a real difference for the environment.

Learn more and see preparation tips here: Harrison Residential Food Waste Program

Harrison Industries Adjusts Trash Collection for July 4 Holiday

If your regular trash day falls on Friday, take note: Harrison Industries will delay trash, recycling, and organics waste collection by one day due to the Independence Day holiday. Friday customers will have their pickup moved to Saturday, July 5. The adjusted schedule applies only during the week of June 29 through July 5. Customers with Monday through Thursday pickups will not be affected.

Regular service will resume starting Monday, July 7 after the Independence Day trash pickup delay.

Weekly Pickup Still Includes All Three Waste Carts

Harrison Industries reminds residents that all three waste carts—trash, recycling, and organics—should be placed at the curb every week. This includes weeks with a holiday delay. Even if your cart contains only food scraps, you should still set it out.

Weekly collection helps reduce landfill waste and supports compliance with California’s food waste diversion law.

How to Handle Food Waste Properly

All residential customers must bag their food scraps before placing them in the organics waste cart. Use either paper or plastic bags. Seal the bags and toss them directly into the green organics cart.

This simple step reduces odors, discourages pests, and makes the collection process more efficient.

Why Food Waste Recycling Matters Every Week

California law now requires food waste diversion from landfills. Methane gas, released when food decomposes in landfills, is a major contributor to global warming. Regular food waste recycling helps cut emissions and protects the environment.

Even if you don’t have yard clippings, you can—and should—still recycle food waste. Don’t skip a week just because your green cart isn’t full. Every bit of diverted waste makes a difference.

Make Food Recycling Part of Your Routine

Consistency is key. By making food waste recycling part of your weekly routine, you’ll support cleaner communities and a healthier planet. The law may require it, but the environment depends on it.

Let’s keep working together to build sustainable habits. Set your carts out weekly, bag your food scraps, and help California lead in climate-friendly waste practices.

Stay Informed and Stay on Schedule

For more details about Harrison’s food waste recycling program and pickup schedules, visit ejharrison.com/residential-food-waste. Bookmark the site or sign up for service alerts so you never miss a change.

Remember:

• Friday pickups move to Saturday during Independence Day week
• All other days remain on schedule
• Set out trash, recycling, and organics carts every week
• Bag all food scraps before placing them in the organics cart

Thank you for doing your part to protect our environment and keep your neighborhood clean.

Regular Pickup Services Continue June 15–21

Harrison Industries will maintain its regular trash, recycling, and yard/organics waste collection schedule during the week of Juneteenth, June 15–21. Although the Juneteenth holiday falls on Thursday, June 19, there will be no delays or changes in service.

Weekly Curbside Collection for All Waste Types

Residential customers in Ventura County should continue placing all three carts—trash, recycling, and organics—at the curb on their usual collection day. Harrison Industries collects all waste types every week, including food waste. This means you don’t need to wait or hold back items. Everything goes out together, every week.

Proper Disposal of Food Waste

All food waste must go into the green organics waste cart. Make sure to bag the food waste using closed paper or plastic bags before tossing them in the cart. This simple step helps keep your cart clean and ensures smoother processing at the waste facility.

Make Weekly Food Waste Recycling a Habit

California law requires residents to divert food waste from landfills. This rule went into effect in 2022, and your cooperation is vital. Food waste in landfills releases methane gas, a major contributor to global warming. By recycling your food waste every week, you help protect the environment and meet state regulations.

Even if you don’t have any yard waste, you should still place your bagged food waste in the organics cart and set it out for pickup. Don’t skip a week—even a small amount makes a big impact.

Why Food Waste Recycling Matters

Recycling food waste prevents harmful methane emissions. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, over 25 times more damaging to the climate than carbon dioxide. Regular food waste recycling reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to a cleaner, healthier planet.

Quick Tips for Effective Food Waste Recycling:

• Use paper or plastic bags to contain food scraps

• Seal bags tightly to avoid odors and spills

• Place only food waste in the bags—no packaging or utensils

• Set the organics cart out weekly, even if it’s not full

No Service Delays for Juneteenth

Although many services close or adjust schedules for Juneteenth, Harrison Industries will operate on its normal timetable. Trash, recycling, and organics pickups will occur as scheduled throughout the week. Place your bins curbside by 7 a.m. on your regular collection day.

More Information and Resources

For details on Harrison’s food waste recycling program, visit ejharrison.com/residential-food-waste. You’ll find guidelines, FAQs, and support materials to help you recycle smarter.

Your Role in Sustainability

Every household plays a crucial part in California’s zero-waste future. Recycling your food scraps weekly is more than a legal requirement—it’s a responsibility. With your help, we can keep methane-producing waste out of our landfills and protect the environment for future generations.

Thank you for doing your part. Stay consistent, stay green, and keep recycling every week.

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday,

employees of Harrison Industries will be taking the day off on Monday, May 26. As a result, Harrison will collect trash, recycling and yard/organics waste one day later than usual during the week of May 25-31. The regular schedule will resume the following week.

Remember that Harrison’s residential customers can place all three carts curbside every week, as Harrison collects all waste weekly – including food waste, which is recyclable. All food waste should be placed in closed paper or plastic bags and the bags should be tossed in the organics waste cart.

It’s important to recycle your food waste EVERY WEEK. The state of California in 2022 began to require the diversion of food waste from landfills, and your efforts are needed. Even if you only have food waste bags and no yard waste, you can still put the food waste bags in your organic waste cart and take it to the curb every week for pickup.

Thank you for your role in the success of our food waste recycling program. Food waste recycling is the law, but more importantly, it’s vital for the environment. Food waste emits destructive methane gas as it decays, damaging our atmosphere and causing global warming.

We continue to be a statewide leader in developing the programs and infrastructure needed to implement this ambitious project and we owe our success to your participation.

For more information on Harrison’s food waste recycling program, please visit https://ejharrison.com/residential-food-waste/.