HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-93 RESOLUTION NO. 7-93
A~RESOLUTION of the City of Port Angeles
adopting the Clallam County Comprehensive
Solid Waste Management Plan.
WHEREAS, The Clallam County Comprehensive Solid WaSte
Management Plan, which was presented to the city Council on
January 5, 1993, contains elements that are important to the City's
solid waste management programs and updates the 1978/1985 Solid
Waste Management Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Clallam County Comprehensive Solid Waste
Management Plan was prepared in accordance with Chapter 70.95 RCW,
which requires that the City either adopt the county-wide plan or
develop its own plan which must be approved ~ the Department of
Ecology; and
WHEREAS, throughout the process of developing this plan,
public input was sought in numerous ways and the creation and
involvement of a Solid Waste Advisory Committee was an important
part of the plan development; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY CO~CIL OF THE CITY OF PORT
ANGELES, WASHINGTON, as follows:
The city Council hereby adopts the Clallam County
Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan which is attached hereto
as Exhibit A.
PASSED by the City CounciI of the City of Port Angeles at
a regular meeting of said Council held on the 19th day of January,
1993.
~
ATTEST:
Becky J.~pt~, Cit~ Clerk
APPROV~AS TO FO~: ·
Craig D.. ~tutson, City Attorney
swresolution
--
--Adopted by the City Council
January 19~ 1993
FINAL DRAFT
CLALLAM COUNTY
COMPREHENSIVE SOLID WASTE
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Prepared for:
Clallam County Public Works Department
223 East Fourth Street
Port Angeles, Washington 98362-3098
Prepared by:
SCS Engineers
in association with
Herrera Environmental Consultants
and
C2S2
December 1, 1992
File No. 0489025
CONTENTS
Chapter Paqe
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................... v
1.0 INTRODUCTION ......................................... 1-1
1.1 Role and Purpose ................................ 1-1
1.2 Relationship to Other Plans ..................... 1-2
1.3 Previous Solid Waste Plans ...................... 1-2
1.4 Process and Schedule for Updating the Plan ...... 1-3
1.5 Goals and Objectives of the Plan ................ 1-4
2.0 BACKGROUND OF THE PLANNING AREA ...................... 2-1
2.1 Description of the Planning Area ................ 2-1
2.2 Evaluation of Potential Sites for Solid Waste
Facilities ..................................... 2-5
2.3 Quantity and Composition of Municipal Solid
Waste in Clallam County ........................ 2-10
3.0 SOLID WASTE HANDLING SYSTEMS ......................... 3-1
3 1 Introduction .................................... 3-1
3 2 Waste Reduction ................................. 3-2
3 3 Recycling ....................................... 3-15
3 4 Composting ...................................... 3-30
3 5 Energy Recovery and Incineration ................ 3-40
3 6 Solid Waste Collection .......................... 3-43
3.7 Transfer ........................................ 3-50
3.8 Import/Export ................................... 3-53
3.9 Disposal ........................................ 3-60
3.10 Regulation and Administration ................... 3-66
4.0 SPECIAL WASTES ....................................... 4-1
4.1 Introduction .................................... 4-1
4.2 Agricultural Wastes ............................. 4-1
4.3 Animal Carcasses ................................ 4-3
4.4 Asbestos Wastes ................................. 4-4
4.5 Ash ............................................. 4-4
4.6 Auto Hulks ...................................... 4-5
Table of Contents, Continued
4.7 Biosolids (Sewage Sludge and Septage) ........... 4-6
4.8 Construction and Demolition Wastes .............. 4-8
4.9 Contaminated Soils .............................. 4-9
4.10 Dredge Spoils ................................... 4-10
4.11 Hazardous Wastes ................................ 4-11
4.12 Industrial Wastes ............................... 4-12
4.13 Infectious Wastes ............................... 4-12
4.14 Petroleum Sludge ................................ 4-14
4.15 Tires ........................................... 4-14
4.16 White Goods and Other Bulky Wastes .............. 4-16
4.17 Wood Wastes ..................................... 4-16
5.0 SEPA COMPLIANCE ...................................... 5-1
5.1 Introduction .................................... 5-1
5.2 SEPA Environmental Checklist .................... 5-1
5.3 Determination of Nonsignificance ................ 5-24
GLOSSARY ............................................. G-1
REFERENCES ........................................... R-1
APPENDICES
A Summary of Recommendations from Related Plans
B Letters of Concurrence
C WUTC Cost Assessment Questionnaire
D Relevant State Regulations:
Ch. 70.95 RCW, The Solid Waste Management - Reduction
and Recycling
Ch. 173-304 WAC, Minimum Functional Standards for
Solid Waste Handling
PRINTED ON RECYCLED AND RECYCLABLE PAPER
ii
TABLES
Number Paqe
2.1 Clallam County Population by Area ...................... 2-4
2.2 Clallam County Population Trends ....................... 2-4
2.3 Municipal Solid Waste Quantities ....................... 2-12
2.4 Projected Municipal Solid Waste Quantities ............. 2-14
2.5 Municipal Solid Waste Composition in
Clallam County ......................................... 2-15
2.6 Recycled Quantities by Material ........................ 2-18
3.1 Summary of Ranking, Best Management Practices
for Solid Waste ........................................ 3-3
3.2 Projected Results of Recycling and Composting
Programs in Clallam County ............................. 3-29
3.3 Collection and Disposal Fees ........................... 3-45
3.4 Disposal Sites in Clallam County ....................... 3-61
3.5 Solid Waste Disposal Site Permit Fees .................. 3-70
4.1 Agricultural Wastes .................................... 4-2
FIGURES
Number Paqe
2.1 Annual Precipitation ................................... 2-3
2.2 Disposal Sites and Waste Generation Areas .............. 2-13
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iv
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
With this Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan, Clallam County is
moving forward to address the proper collection and disposal of solid
wastes. Through this Plan, Clallam County demonstrates their desire to
maintain the aesthetic qualities of the picturesque Olympic Peninsula.
Fortunately, the current solid waste management system in Clallam County is
adequate in most areas, and few significant changes are proposed by this
Plan. Most of the proposed changes are related to the need for increased
efforts in waste reduction, recycling and composting, in accordance with
recent changes in State law and trends in public attitudes.
The format and the substance of this Plan was dictated primarily by State
law (Ch. 70.95 RCW) and planning guidelines. Chapter One of this Plan
addresses the basis and approach for the planning process. Chapter Two
discusses the physical and environmental conditions of Clallam County,
including siting factors, and information on waste quantities and
composition. Chapter Three describes the various components of the solid
waste management system, including waste reduction, recycling, composting,
incineration, collection, transfer, long-haul, disposal and regulation.
In Chapter Four, the generation and disposal of a variety of special wastes
are discussed. Chapter Five is the SEPA checklist for this Plan. To
assist in reviewing and using this Plan, included are a glossary and list
of references. Also attached are appendices showing summaries of related
plans and studies, letters of concurrence (to be inserted after adoption of
the Plan), the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission {WUTC)
cost assessment worksheet, and the most relevant State legislation (Ch.
70.95 RCW and Ch. 173-304 WAC).
Although the State of Washington has adopted a goal of diverting 50 percent
of the waste stream by 1995 through waste reduction, recycling and
composting programs, Clallam County has adopted a lower goal which reflects
local conditions. The lower goal is based in part on the rural nature of
Clallam County, with the subsequent difficulties in collecting and
marketing recyclable materials. This Plan establishes an interim goal of
20 percent waste reduction, recycling and composting by 1996, with an
eventual goal of 40 percent. Achieving the 40 percent goal will take many
years, and will depend in part on the market development efforts of others.
Throughout the process of developing this plan, public input was sought in
numerous ways. The creation and involvement of a Solid Waste Advisory
Committee (SWAC) was a very important part of the plan development. From
the very beginning of the process, the SWAC provided invaluable input on
local conditions and needs. Every attempt was made when forming the SWAC
to ensure that it represented the interests and concerns of residents,
businesses and public interest groups in Clallam County. The SWAC members,
as residents of the community, recognized the need to represent the
interests of the general public in addition to representing the interests
of their company or agency.
The SWAC was an integral part of the development of this Solid Waste
Management Plan. The current plan is based on a document that the SWAC had
begun to develop in cooperation with the County. Recognizing the
difficulty in completing the plan on their own, SCS Engineers was retained
to assist with its completion. The SWAC was consulted whenever an
important policy decision needed to be made or a draft work product was
available for review, but additional SWAC input was provided through phone
conversations and other mechanisms outside of the actual SWAC meetings.
The development of this plan included a SEPA checklist to evaluate the
potential environmental impacts of programs proposed or addressed by the
plan. The development of this plan also included a WUTC Cost Assessment
Questionnaire, to address the equally important issues related to potential
financial impacts of the proposed programs on the residents of Clallam
County. Although SWAC meetings were held infrequently while the SEPA
checklist and WUTC Questionnaire were being developed, key SWAC members
were contacted frequently during the development of these documents to
provide necessary information and the full SWAC was provided an opportunity
to review the draft documents.
Clallam County took extra steps to solicit public input on the plan by
holding a series of public meetings throughout the County, by providing an
extended comment period, through numerous presentations to a variety of
groups, and through other activities. The series of meetings were
intentionally held before the preliminary draft plan was prepared in order
to promote awareness of the planning process and to provide an opportunity
for early public comment. In an effort to maximize the public input
through these meetings, they were held as part of city council meetings {in
Forks, Sequim and Port Angeles} and were advertised in the local
newspapers. An additional public meeting, not part of a city council
meeting, was held in Port Angeles. When the preliminary draft was
available, an extended comment period was provided. This was in addition
to the required public hearing and distribution of copies of the plan to
SWAC members and other interested parties. Throughout the plan development
period, presentations have been made to real estate boards, business
associations, Kiwanis, Rotary Club, the local junior college, and on a
local radio talk show.
Few changes are proposed by this Plan, as many of the desired programs are
already in place, but the following recommendations are made:
· Primarily through public education efforts, new and existing waste
reduction activities should be promoted to increase their impact,
including backyard composting and encouraging people to purchase
used products and/or products that can be repaired, reused,
refilled, recycled or that have a longer life.
· Additional waste reduction activities should include waste audits
for businesses, to assist them in reducing their waste; the use of
recycled paper by the County and others; and increased use of
differential disposal rates, where possible, in order to
vi
financially reward those people who have reduced their waste
quantity. Differential disposal rates should be implemented by
those responsible for conducting residential garbage collection:
the City of Port Angeles, Olympic Disposal, and the City of Sequim.
· For recycling, existing efforts should be maintained and expanded,
although many of the additional activities suggested by the new
State priorities have recently been implemented. For instance,
curbside collection programs for recyclable materials were begun in
1991 in Port Angeles and Sequim. Additional recycling programs and
activities that are recommended include establishing a voluntary
curbside collection program for the Quileute Reservation and
surrounding areas; drop-off sites in Forks and seasonal sites for
tourists; additional collections for businesses, schools, and
municipal facilities; implementing a process for collecting data on
recycling efforts; and increased public education efforts to
promote recycling opportunities.
· The responsibility for public education will vary depending upon
the program, but in general the responsibility will be a shared
between Clallam County, Port Angeles, Sequim, Forks, the Tribal
Councils, and private waste and recycling collectors. Public
education will be achieved through a combination of existing,
expanded and new activities.
· Composting yard waste and chipping brush should be aggressively
pursued by Clallam County, Port Angeles, Sequim, and other cities
and Tribes as appropriate. Also as appropriate, composting of
biosolids from septic systems should be examined as a method to
produce a resource while eliminating a disposal problem.
· Clallam County should investigate further the possible advantages
and disadvantages of a solid waste district, including the relative
merits of a collection and/or disposal district. The investigation
of the district should be a joint effort (initially) by Clallam
County and the City of Port Angeles, per the approach outlined in
Section 3.10.4 of this Plan.
· There is a need for additional management and disposal alternatives
for five of the special wastes examined in this Plan: construction
and demolition waste, infectious wastes from small-quantity
generators, biosolids from septage systems, tires, and wood waste.
Best management alternatives for these waste streams should be
determined by the generators in consultation with the County
Environmental Health Division, with assistance from the SWAC as
appropriate.
Standards for solid waste management are constantly changing. This Solid
Waste Management Plan was developed in response to conditions that existed
prior to June 1992, when revisions were made to the preliminary draft in
response to comments from the SWAC, Tribal representatives, the public,
state agencies and others. A number of changes have occurred since April
1992, and these changes would best be addressed through amendments to this
vii
plan or a new plan as necessary. This plan is intended to be sufficiently
comprehensive to guide Clallam County through the many additional changes
that are expected to occur in the next twenty years, while also being
flexible enough to address the unforeseen changes. It therefore presents
programs which are feasible and desirable now, and discusses alternatives
which have been rejected at this time but that may become desirable in the
future due to changes in legislation, technology, economic conditions or
public demand.
viii
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 ROLE AND PURPOSE
This Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan (CSWMP or Plan) was
initially prepared, and is periodically updated, to provide a functional
planning guide that deals with the full range of solid waste issues within
Clallam County. This Plan was developed in response to the Solid Waste
Management Act, Chapter (Ch.) 70.95 of the Revised Code of Washington
(RCW), which states:
Each county within the State in cooperation with the various cities
located within such county, shall prepare a coordinated,
comprehensive solid waste management plan (Section 70.95.080).
The Solid Waste Management Act also specifies that this Plan must be
maintained in a current and applicable condition through periodic review at
least every five years (RCW 70.95.110).
This Plan must address solid waste management throughout the County. The
incorporated areas, which include the cities of Forks, Port Angeles and
Sequim, had the option to develop their own plan but have chosen to
participate in the County planning process.
The various Tribes in Clallam County have their own solid waste disposal
site (in the case of the Makah Indian Reservation) or use County transfer
facilities and the Port Angeles Landfill (for all others). Because this
Plan may impact their current and future solid waste management options,
review and adoption by the Tribal Councils is recommended for the Makah
Tribe, the Quileute Tribe, and the Elwha and Jamestown Bands of the Klallam
Tribe.
The minimum contents of this CSWMP are specified by State law (RCW
70.95.090) and further described in Guidelines for the Development of Local
Solid Waste Management Plans and Plan Revisions (March 15, 1990) issued by
the Department of Ecology (WDOE 1990a). To summarize, the CSWMP must
contain:
· An inventory of existing solid waste handling facilities, including
an assessment of any deficiencies in meeting current disposal
needs.
· The estimated needs for solid waste handling facilities for a
period of twenty years.
· A program for the development of solid waste handling facilities
which are consistent with the Plan and meet Minimum Functional
Standards. The development program must take into account land
use,. and must provide a financing plan for a six-year construction
and capital acquisition program.
1-1
· A program for surveillance and control.
· An inventory of solid waste collection needs, including information
on franchises and franchisees, municipal operations, population
densities of areas covered by either franchised or municipal
operations, and projected solid waste collection needs for a period
of six years.
· A comprehensive waste reduction and recycling element that provides
for reduction of wastes, provides incentives and mechanisms for
source separation, and provides opportunities for recycling of
source-separated materials.
· Waste reduction and recycling strategies, including residential
collection programs in urban areas and drop-off or buy-back centers
at every solid waste handling facility that serves rural areas,
monitoring methods for programs that collect source-separated
materials from nonresidential sources, yard waste collection
programs, and education programs.
· An assessment of the impact that implementation of the Plan~s
recommendations will have on solid waste collection costs.
· A review of potential sites for solid waste disposal facilities.
1.2 RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PLANS
This Plan incorporates the results and recommendations of several plans and
studies dealing with landfilling, transfer stations~ and incineration of
solid waste within the County. The results of two waste-to-energy studies,
prepared for the City of Port Angeles (Beck 1988a) and the City of Forks
(SCS 1988), are incorporated. Projections of the Port Angeles Landfillfs
capacity and service life were determined in the City of Port Angeles
Landfill Operation Plan (Beck 1988b), as revised by the Amendment to the
Port Angeles Landfill Engineering Report (Parametrix 1992). Information
from the 1983 Makah Solid Waste Management Plan (PSR 1983) has been used
also.
Information from the development of the Clallam County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan {PSR 1991), which addresses household and small quantity
generator hazardous wastes, was incorporated into this Plan. This Plan
also incorporates information and recommendations from the Best Management
Practices Analysis for Solid Waste (Matrix et al 1989).
1.3 PREVIOUS SOLID WASTE PLANS
In September 1972 the first Comprehensive Plan for Solid Waste Management
was completed for Clallam County by URS/Hill, Ingman, Chase and Company of
Seattle, Washington. In 1981 an attempt was made by the Public Works
Departments of Clallam County and the City of Port Angeles to update this
plan through an in-house effort. This 1981 update was intended to reflect
then current factual data as well as regulatory changes that had been
1-2
implemented after the original CSWMP study was prepared. However,
following the first draft of the 1981 plan, it became apparent that the
expectations of the Department of Ecology (WDOE), Clallam County, and its
associated municipalities could not be satisfied at that time through the
in-house process. The 1981 plan was never considered for adoption.
In 1983, Parametrix, Inc. of Bellevue, Washington, was contracted by
Clallam County to revise and update the CSWMP. The final draft of this
update was completed in September of 1984, but was not adopted by all the
required jurisdictions.
Due to substantial changes in pertinent data and solid waste management
regulations, the County's Solid Waste Advisory Committee {SWAC) began in
1988 to update the 1984 draft plan and bring it up to current standards.
Substantial portions of the text were retained from the 1984 document, but
factual data was updated and additional changes were made to incorporate
current regulations and conditions. At the same time, substantial changes
were occurring with State laws and regulations and it proved to be
impractical to finish revisions to the plan in 1988. In 1989, SCS
Engineers was retained to finish the process of revising the CSWMP,
beginning with the 1988 draft.
1.4 PROCESS AND SCHEDULE FOR UPDATING THE PLAN
This Plan was prepared through a team effort involving the Clallam County
Public Works Department, the SWAC members, SCS Engineers, and two
subconsultants; Herrera Environmental Consultants and C2S2. All of the
parties involved provided information that was used in this Plan. The SWAC
members were:
Robert Jones (Chairman), City of Port Angeles
Steve Hauff (Secretary), Clallam County
Mark Hannah, Daishowa America
Robert King, Environmental Wast~ Systems
Daniel Leinan, City of Forks
Richard Parker, City of Sequim
Bill Simons, Makah Tribal Council
John Teichert, Olympic National Park
Agness Walker, Olympic Disposal
These SWAC members represented not only the interests of their respective
agencies and businesses, but as residents and members of the community they
also represented the public's interest. SWAC members were chosen based in
part on their amount of community involvement. Additional public input was
solicited by a series of public meetings that were held throughout Clallam
County to discuss the draft report prior to the release of the preliminary
draft plan.
WDOE~s Planning Guidelines require that solid waste management plans be
updated at least every five years. Thus, the update process for this CSWMP
should begin in 1995, with a goal of adopting an updated CSWMP in 1997.
Before that time, however, it may be necessary to revise this Plan due to
1-3
changes in technical or regulatory standards. If a significant change
occurs, one that causes part of this Plan to become outdated, it can be
incorporated through an amendment.
The process of updating and adopting this Plan consists of the following
steps, of which the first seven have been completed to date:
· Development of the Draft CSWMP for SWAC review and comment.
· Development of a SEPA checklist.
· Development of the Washington Utilities and Transportation
Commission {WUTC) Cost Assessment Questionnaire.
· Development of the Preliminary Draft CSWMP, including the SEPA
checklist and WUTC Questionnaire.
· Copies of Preliminary Draft CSWMP made available for review and
comment by the public and WDOE.
· Incorporation of public and WDOE comments.
· Technical review by WDOE to ensure correct incorporation of their
comments.
· Adoption by cities, Tribes, and Clallam County.
· Submittal of Final CSWMP with resolutions of adoption to WDOE for
final review.
· Final approval by WDOE.
As part of the first three steps, comments have been incorporated into the
Preliminary Draft from review and additional information provided by SWAC
members, various County staff, WDOE staff {from a technical review of the
draft CSWMP and a review of the SEPA checklist) and WUTC staff {from
preliminary reviews of the draft CSWMP and WUTC Questionnaire).
1.5 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE PLAN
The objectives which were established by Clallam County for this update of
the Solid Waste Management Plan are to:
· Re-establish the Solid Waste Advisory Committee (SWAC) and
coordinate plan preparation with them.
· Review the 1984 plan recommendations.
· Review current solid waste regulations and policies giving
particular attention to waste stream reduction and material
recycling.
1-4
· Extend the planning period to 2010 and develop current waste
generation data.
· Review existing facilities and solid waste handling practices, and
identify needs.
· Assess alternatives and develop recommendations for future action,
incorporating the results of the solid waste studies completed in
1988 for the Cities of Port Angeles and Forks.
· Give particular consideration to alternatives that involve the
expertise of private industry wherever those capabilities are
available.
· Develop capital cost estimates and implementation schedules for
required improvements with emphasis on those improvements required
by 1995.
· Assist the SWAC in plan review and coordinate with appropriate
local and State agencies for plan approval.
In July 1990, an additional solid waste management goal which was adopted
by Clallam County is to:
· Adequately and equitably fund a regional long-term solution to
collection and disposal of solid waste by forming a county-wide
solid waste collection and disposal district by July 1, 1993.
1-5
1-6
CHAPTER 2: BACKGROUND OF THE PLANNING AREA
2.1 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AREA
An understanding of environmental, demographic and land use conditions in
Clallam County is important because it provides a point of reference for
discussions of existing solid waste practices and future solid waste
handling needs. To address the primary aspects of environmental conditions
in Clallam County, Section 2.1 is divided into two. parts: the natural
environment and the human environment. The description of the natural
environment includes a brief review of topography, geology, soils, and
climate. The second part covers the demographic and land use
characteristics of the planning area.
2.1.1 Natural Environment
Clallam County is located on the Olympic Peninsula in the northwestern
corner of Washington State. The County is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to
the west, the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the north, and Jefferson County to
the east and south. The Olympic mountains are also to the south, forming a
significant geographic barrier across most of the County. Eighty miles
separate the western and eastern boundaries. Within Clallam County's
borders is a total of 1,750 square miles.
Topoqraphy
The topography of Clallam County is extremely varied, with a range of
elevation from sea level up to approximately 7,000 feet. The dominant
topographical feature is the Olympic Mountains, which comprises a major
portion of Clallam County and neighboring Jefferson County to the south.
These mountains are a densely timbered wilderness with numerous streams and
steep slopes. The remaining area of Clallam County is comprised of rugged
foothills and coastal terraces. Two large lakes, Lake Ozette and Lake
Crescent, and several smaller lakes, are located in the County.
Geoloqy and Soils
Clallam County is located on the broad physiographic region known as the
Olympic Peninsula. The Peninsula is a region of complex geologic history.
Bedrock sequences of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks occur on
the Peninsula in a variety of stages of deformation as a result of major
tectonic activity. Repeated glaciation of the area has modified older
bedrock deposits and left behind deposits of unconsolidated clay, silt,
sand and gravel on much of the lowlands and foothills of the Olympic
Peninsula.
Two major bedrock features occur on the Olympic Peninsula: the peripheral
rocks and the core rocks. The peripheral rocks are Miocene to Eocene in
age and consist of sandstone, argillite, and conglomerate that are layered
with basaltic volcanic rocks of the Crescent Formation. The peripheral
rocks are folded and faulted, but in general, are stratigraphically
2-1
continuous. The core rocks are also Miocene to Eocene in age but are much
more deformed than the peripheral rocks. Metamorphic lithology and
textural characteristics are very common in the core rock assemblages.
Climate
In general, the climate of Clallam County is maritime in character with
cool dry summers and wet mild winters. However, the Olympic Mountains have
the widest range of rainfall in the United States, and in Clallam County
the average annual rainfall varies from 16 inches at Sequim (in the eastern
part of the County) to 130 inches in the Olympic National Park (in the
western part). The average number of days in which there is 0.1 inch or
more of rain is approximately 160 days in the western part of the County,
79 days at Port Angeles and 57 days at Sequim. Temperatures are mild in
the non-mountainous portion of Clallam County, averaging approximately 49
degrees F over the year. The typical range between high and low daily
temperatures is 12 degrees in the winter and 21 degrees in the summer.
Temperature extremes throughout a year are rarely less than 15 degrees F or
more than 96 degrees F in the habitable portions of the County. Figure 2.1
shows the variation in total annual precipitation across the County.
Snowfall is heavy in the mountainous regions and remains at higher
elevations until late in the summer. During many winters little or no snow
is experienced at lower elevations.
2.1.2 Human Environment
Current Population/Demoqraphics
The 1990 Census (USDC 1991) estimates that the 1990 population in Clallam
County was 54,464 people. Port Angeles, which is the largest of Clallam
County's three incorporated areas, has 33 percent of the population. The
other two incorporated areas, Sequim and Forks, contain 7 and 5 percent of
the County's population, respectively. Over half of the County's
population (56 percent) is located in the unincorporated areas. Table 2.1
shows the County's population distribution for 1980 and 1990.
Future Population/Demoqraphics
Table 2.2 shows previous and projected population figures for Clallam
County. Evaluating growth trends in an area~s population is use6ul in
determining future trends in solid waste generation. The Washington
State Office of Financial Management (OFM) estimates that the population
of Clallam County will reach 63,860 people by 2010. This is an increase
of approximately 17 percent over the 20-year planning period of this
Plan. It can be assumed that waste quantities generated in Clallam
County will increase in proportion to this amount (by about 17 percent),
before any impacts caused by waste reduction and recycling activities
(see Table 2.4).
2-2
:>-3
Table 2.1. Clallam County Population by Area.
19801 19902
Clallam County 51,648 54,464
Unincorporated 28,264 30,276
Incorporated 23,384 24,188
Forks 3,060 2,862
Port Angeles 17,311 17,710
Sequim 3,013 3,616
1 - Washington Office of Financial Management, August 1990.
2 - 1990 Census, USDC 1991.
Table 2.2. Clallam County Population Trends.
Percent Change
Year Population from Previous Year
1950 26,396 ---
1960 30,022 13.7
1970 34,770 15.8
1980 51,648 48.5
1990 54,4641 5.5
1995 57,7122 6.0
2000 59,6832 3.4
2010 63,8602 7.0
I 1990 Census, USDC 1991.
2 Washington Office of Financial Management, November 1990.
2-4
2.2 EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL SITES FOR SOLID WASTE FACILITIES
2.2.1 Solid Waste Facility Siting Factors
Soils and Geoloqy
The soils and underlying geology are important considerations for solid
waste management facilities. Geology, groundwater and the availability of
appropriate soils are critical factors. The appropriate type of soil
varies somewhat depending on the type of solid waste handling facility, but
any structure, such as a transfer station or recycling center, must be
built upon a stable foundation. The soils in Clallam County are generally
acceptable for foundations.
A variety of soils are required for the construction and operation of a
landfill. Silts, clay or clay-like soils are used for landfill liners and
final cover (caps) because these fine-grained soils tend to retard the
movement of precipitation, gas and leachate. Porous soils, such as sands
and gravels, are undesirable because they permit rainfall to enter the
landfill (increasing leachate and gas production) and allow migration of
landfill leachate and methane gas. Thus, sand or gravel is not suitable
for landfill cover or liners; However, gravel is often used for
intermediate cover because it provides better traction for landfill
machinery in wet weather. Coarse-grained materials such as sands and
gravels can also be used for gas venting and leachate collection system
backfill. The soils present in most areas of Clallam County can be
characterized as coarse-grained. Detailed soils studies will be necessary
for evaluating potential sites for any proposed solid waste disposal
facilities.
Groundwater
Distance to groundwater, measured in feet or in terms of the time that
surface water or leachate takes to travel through the soil to the
groundwater, is an important criterion for the siting of solid waste
facilities. Shallow layers of groundwater and/or short travel times to the
groundwater are a problem due to the risks associated with spills and
contaminated runoff from waste facilities. Other factors such as the
existing and potential beneficial uses of the groundwater are also
significant considerations, especially if the groundwater is, or could be,
used for drinking water. A large percentage of the population in Clallam
County depends on private wells for drinking water supplies.
Groundwater must also be considered when siting or designing solid waste
facilities because shallow groundwater can result in higher construction
and maintenance costs, interfere with excavation, and require non-standard
foundations.
Floodinq
Areas known to have experienced flooding are generally not good sites for
solid waste facilities. Solid waste facilities often entail risks not
associated with other types of development, such as the potential to create
contaminated runoff. Additionally, solid waste facilities must remain
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operational during and after natural disasters such as floods, in order to
handle the large amount of debris that is created.
Surface Water
Two large lakes, Lake Ozette and Lake Crescent, and several smaller lakes
are located in the County. Numerous creeks and rivers are also present,
generally draining from interior areas to the coastline. The creeks and
rivers pose a serious problem for solid waste facilities that may present a
possible risk of contamination for surface water. Regulatory standards
require that new disposal facilities be located more than 200 feet from
surface waters, which eliminates a substantial amount of land for a water-
rich area such as Clallam County.
Slope
Much of Clallam County is mountainous and has a slope that poses serious
problems for solid waste disposal facilities. Steep slopes pose problems
for site development and future access to the site. The lower valleys and
coastal terrace areas have gentler slopes; therefore, these areas should
receive consideration for siting solid waste handling facilities. However,
these areas also have high value for other purposes, such as agriculture
and housing.
Cover and Liner Materials
Cover and liner materials are important because their presence on-site at
landfills and other disposal facilities will reduce the cost of
construction, operations, and maintenance. These materials include silt
and clay for liners and caps; sand and gravel for gas venting, leachate
collection, and road construction; and a variety of materials that can be
used for intermediate cover. Clay is a scarce material in parts of Clallam
County, in which case synthetic liners may be more cost-effective to use
for landfilling operations.
Capacity
The Minimum Functional Standards specify various landfilling requirements
based on size. For example, landfills with a permitted capacity of ten
thousand cubic yards or more per year (approximately 6,000 tons) must
collect and burn off (or utilize) landfill gas, and must weigh all incoming
waste (WAC 173-304-460). If a new landfill were constructed to serve only
a part of Clallam County, the capacity may be less than ten thousand cubic
yards and it could be designed to less stringent standards. Even with
fewer controls, however, the cost of constructing and operating a landfill,
on a per ton basis, increases rapidly as the size of the landfill
decreases. On a per ton basis, it is likely that any savings incurred for
less stringent design requirements would be more than offset by the fixed
costs.
Climatic Factors
Most of Clallam County receives extremely high amounts of precipitation
(see Figure 2.1), which poses serious problems for landfills due to the
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potential for generation of large quantities of leachate. Other types of
solid waste handling facilities are less affected, but care must be taken
to avoid surface water contamination by runoff. Furthermore, these sites
must be served by all-weather roads. The eastern side of the County,
especially in the area of Sequim, receives low amounts of rainfall. Much
of the land in this area, however, has considerable value for agricultural
or residential usage.
Land Use
Existing land use in Clallam County ranges from the relatively intense
residential, commercial and industrial development in the Port Angeles and
Sequim areas, to the undeveloped land and forested areas of the Olympic
Mountains. The wood products industry has been a major factor influencing
the development of the County. Historic communities are found along the
shores of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and along the Soleduck River and the
Forks Prairie. The City of Port Angeles continues to be the center of
economic activity. Daishowa America, K-Ply and ITT Rayonier operate mills
in Port Angeles and are the primary participants in the timber and timber
products industry, along with the Port of Port Angeles which is involved in
the export of logs.
A breakdown of the County's land area by ownership reveals that only a
small portion of the County is available for private ownership.
Approximately 48 percent of all land in the County is under federal
ownership, including portions of the Olympic National Park and Forest,
Indian reservations and various Coast Guard installations. The Olympic
National Park represents a major part of this area, and the number of
tourists visiting the Park has doubled in recent years. Approximately 14
percent of the County is in State ownership and 25 percent is owned by
timber companies.
Developed land outside of the Port Angeles area consists of two smaller
incorporated areas, Forks and Sequim, and a number of rural residential
areas. The land use pattern to the east is primarily agricultural with
support service communities. To the west of Port Angeles are several
resort developments, and isolated timber and commercial fishing areas. The
larger communities to the west include Forks, Lake Pleasant, La Push,
Sekiu, Clallam Bay, Neah Bay and Joyce. To the east of Port Angeles are
Sequim, Carlsborg and a number of smaller communities.
Air Emissions and Air Quality
At present, Clallam County is in attainment for all regulated pollutants
(OAPCA 1990). However, EPA has classified Port Angeles as a problem area
for sulfur dioxide, and marginal for PM-lO particulate. Fugitive road dust
is considered to be the cause of high particulate readings, although in
winter, wood stove emissions may also be a significant contributor.
Many of the air quality regulations are directed at major sources of air
pollutants. A "major source" of air emissions is defined as a source with
potential or actual emissions of 100 tons/year from stacks within the
property line. Port Angeles sources meeting this definition include ITT
Rayonier, K-Ply, Daishowa America, and Lakeside Asphalt (OAPCA 1990).
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While waste wood burners in Forks are not presently classified as major
sources, their cumulative emissions would probably exceed 100 tons/year
(OAPCA 1990). The particulate values in Forks warrant more sampling and an
inventory of mill emissions, but funding for such a study has not been
available. Road dust is also a factor in the Forks particulate values.
Notice of Construction "permits" have not been issued for new wood waste
("teepee" burners} because none of the proposed burners could meet the
minimum particulate standard of 0.2 gr/dscf at 12 percent CO2. Older
burners are "grandfathered" {OAPCA 1990).
Siting and operating a new solid waste facility could potentially impact
local air quality. If an area already has marginal air quality, the
addition of a solid waste facility may possibly cause air emission
standards to be exceeded. All solid waste facilities are potential sources
of increased vehicle fumes from vehicles delivering waste and hauling away
by-products. Particulates and acid gases are among the potential emissions
from incinerators burning solid waste or refuse derived fuel (RDF}.
Possible landfill emissions include dust from dumping and earthmoving
operations, landfill gas (methane}, odors, and flue gases from landfill gas
flares. Transfer stations are a potential source of dust and odors, as are
composting facilities. However, a system which encourages a higher degree
of reliance on centralized, high-volume operations may bring beneficial
gains in the overall air quality by reducing the amount of open burning at
many widely distributed locations.
Summary of Sitinq Factors
Based on the above discussion of siting factors, it can be concluded that
only very limited portions of Clallam County would be available for siting
a solid waste facility. Most of the southern portion of the County is
undesirable for large facilities due to slope problems. This mountainous
area is also generally not available because it falls within the Olympic
National Forest or National Park boundaries.
The western half of the County should not be used for solid waste disposal
facilities due to the high amounts of rainfall received, up to 130 inches
per year (see Figure 2.1). This amount of precipitation complicates runoff
and leachate controls for disposal sites. Although solid waste handling
facilities could be located on the west end of the County, these facilities
should be restricted to transfer station or other operations with low
potential for generation of contaminated leachate or runoff. Facilities
such as transfer stations also need to be conveniently located for public
use and require less acreage.
In conclusion, siting limitations are less restrictive for transfer
stations and the entire county outside of the boundary for federal
lands/Olympic Mountains may be available. Local conditions will further
restrict this area, however, including conditions such as current and
adjacent land use, surface water, flooding potential, and public
opposition. For larger facilities, such as a landfill or waste processing
facility, preferred siting areas are limited to relatively unpopulated
areas in the northeastern portion of the County (beginning roughly east of
Joyce). Local conditions, such as current and adjacent land uses, presence
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of surface water, and current ownership, will further restrict the area
available for large solid waste facilities.
2.2.2 Solid Waste Facility Siting Process
No formal solid waste facility siting process has been established at this
time. The near-term need for a siting process for solid waste facilities
in the future is uncertain. As discussed in the next chapter, current
solid waste landfill capacity is expected to last for another 20 years.
Although various alternatives have high capital costs or other problems
that make them impractical at this time, these alternatives could be
pursued at a later date as needs and opportunities dictate. At this time,
the only new waste handling facilities expected in the next few years are
yard waste compost sites, wood waste landfills, and a sludge composting
site for the Port Angeles wastewater treatment plant.
If a county-wide search becomes necessary for a large facility such as a
landfill or waste-to-energy plant, the constraints discussed above under
siting factors will have to be addressed. For all facilities, much of
Clallam County is eliminated because it is national park or other federal
land. Any large facilities should also be near to the areas of waste
generation, further limiting the choice of locations. For landfills, the
high amounts of rainfall received in the west end of the County would be a
severe problem for siting.
A formal siting process is not being established at this time due to the
minimal need for new solid waste facilities and the possibility that new
regulations will be adopted that will impact the siting process.
Development of a detailed siting process should be postponed until the need
for a specific type of facility has been more firmly established. Any new
facilities sited in the future will have to meet the State and local
standards current at that time. State standards include the Minimum
Functional Standards for Solid Waste Handling (Ch. 173-304 WAC), which
address siting, design, and operation of solid waste facilities. Local
standards include the Clallam County Zoning Code (Chapter 33 of the Clallam
County Code, adopted December 29, 1982) and the Clallam County
Comprehensive Plan (Section 31, adopted December 28, 1982), which designate
solid waste disposal facilities as conditional uses in all forestry and
rural residential zones, and in certain other zones. Other local land use
plans may apply depending on whether the proposed site(s) are in a city's
jurisdiction.
In general, the siting process would include the following steps:
Step i -- Site Identification
For a public disposal facility, the process of identifying sites may
include soliciting nominations from citizens and interested ~arties,
identification of major landholders and City/County properties, and other
activities to initially identify as many sites as practical. For a private
site, the site selection process may consist primarily of an inventory of
sites currently owned or available for purchase.
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Step 2 -- Broad Site Screening
The second step typically involves evaluating potential sites for "fatal
flaws", such as unsuitable neighboring land use {i.e., parks), distance
from the point of waste generation, site size, steep slopes, floodplain
area, wetlands, surface water or shorelines. For a public site, the goal
should be to retain up to 12 sites after this step is completed. For a
private facility or other cases where there may be only a few sites to
begin with, one or two sites must survive this evaluation.
Step 3 -- Detailed Site Rankinq
After sites with fatal flaws have been eliminated, the remaining sites
should be evaluated against more detailed criteria such as the availability
of utilities (water, sewer, electricity}; traffic impacts and road access;
and other factors affecting the ability to develop and use the site,
including soils, high groundwater, slope, etc. For a public site, no more
than four sites should remain after this step is completed.
Step 4 -- Detailed Site Evaluation
The final step in evaluating potential sites involves a detailed
environmental investigation to assess environmental impacts, in accordance
with State Environmental Policy Act. This step should result in the
recommendation of a preferred site.
Step 5 -- Sitinq Decision
The decision to proceed with a recommended site should be based on
environmental, engineering, cost, and political factors.
2.3 QUANTITY AND COMPOSITION OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE IN CLALLAM COUNTY
Identification of the quantity and composition of the solid waste stream in
Clallam County is necessary to provide the basis for determining solid
waste handling needs for the next twenty years.
The total solid waste stream for Clallam County consists of various types
of wastes. Most of .the wastes are landfilled; others are incinerated,
recycled, used as a soil amendment or disposed in special sites established
for specific types of waste. Chapter Three of this Plan is primarily
concerned with the part of the waste stream that is generally referred to
as municipal solid waste (MSW). MSW is produced by residential, commercial
and industrial generators. Commercial and industrial generators also
produce a number of special waste streams that are not handled as part of
the municipal solid waste stream. These special wastes include wood waste,
construction and demolition debris, ash, and a variety of sludges and other
wastes. The special wastes are discussed more in Chapter 4 of this Plan.
2.3.1 Solid Waste Quantities
Estimates of current (1990) municipal solid waste quantities were developed
from information provided by disposal site operators, waste collection
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operators, industries and the Makah Indian Tribe (see Table 2.3). These
figures do not include the special wastes that are handled separately from
the municipal solid waste stream or the amount of waste that is currently
recycled. There are no known significant amounts of import or export of
MSW or special waste.
The special wastes generated in Clallam County are primarily wood waste and
ash. These wastes, which amount to about 33,000 tons per year, are handled
at wood waste and limited-purpose landfills.
Some agricultural waste is also generated in Clallam County, but all of
this waste stream is handled "on-site". Crop residues and livestock wastes
are generally returned to the land. The amount of agricultural waste is
estimated to be about 35,000 tons per year (see Section 4.1 of this Plan}.
The location where waste is generated is important due to the need to
evaluate the waste collection system. The County has been divided into six
waste generation areas for this purpose, based primarily upon the disposal
facilities which serve these areas. The waste generation areas identified
for this plan are: City of Port Angeles, City of Sequim, Sekiu-Clallam Bay
area, West Clallam County (west of Lake Crescent including the City of
Forks), East Clallam County and the Makah Indian Reservation. Figure 2.2
shows the general location of the waste generation areas, the disposal
facilities {transfer stations and solid waste landfills}, and other
features such as the Olympic National Park (shaded border} and the Olympic
National Forest {dashed border).
In Table 2.4, the projection of waste quantities through the planning
period has been accomplished using the current per capita generation rate
multiplied by population forecasts for the County. By using the current
per capita rate without adjustments, the projected figures assume no change
in the percentage of material recycled and reduced. While it could be
assumed that the percentage of recycling will increase and that waste
reduction will further decrease the amount of waste that is disposed, the
projections shown in Table 2.4 provide a conservative estimate and a
baseline for planning purposes.
The rate at which solid waste is generated varies throughout the year due
to seasonal activities. An earlier report {Beck 1988b) estimated that
this variation for Clallam County is +/- 15 percent on a monthly basis.
In other words, the amount of solid waste generated in any one month
could vary from 2,834 to 3,835 tons (1990 figures).
2.3.2 Solid Waste Composition
The composition of municipal solid waste (MSW) is extremely varied and
encompasses all nonhazardous residential and commercial refuse generated in
the County. Table 2.5 shows the composition of MSW as estimated for
Clallam County.
The waste composition data shown in Table 2.5 was derived from the 1987
Best Management Practices (BMP) Analysis for Solid Waste (Matrix et al
1989). The BMP shows average waste composition for each of eight
regional waste generation areas (WGA~s) by sector {residential,
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Table 2.3. Municipal Solid Waste Quantities.
Waste Generation Area Tons of Solid Waste, 1990
Port AQgeles1 16,175
Sequim~ 3,562
East County3 8,289
Sekiu/Clallam Bay~ 58
West County/Forks~ 2,921
Commercial Self-Haul6_ 6,070
Resid§ntial Self-Haul! 1,729
Makaho 900
Quileute Reservation9 310
County Total = 40,014
Per Capita Rate = 4.03 Pounds per Person per Day
1 Includes municipal collections (residential and commercial accounts)
and residential self-haul from Port Angeles residents.
2 Municipal collections from residential and commercial accounts. Does
not include residential or commercial quantities self-hauled to the
Blue Mountain Transfer Station or Port Angeles Landfill.
3 - Includes waste quantities from the Blue Mountain Transfer Station
(1,500 tons) and from Olympic Disposal's collections in the
unincorporated areas in the eastern half of the County {6,789}, both
prorated to agree with landfill records.
4 - Consists of waste quantities from the Clallam Bay Transfer Station.
5 - Consists of waste quantities from the Lake Creek Transfer Station,
including residential and commercial wastes collected or self-hauled
from Forks, the Clallam Bay Corrections Center and unincorporated
areas, but excluding the Quileute Indian Reservation.
6 - Commercial self-haul includes commercial, industrial and
institutional waste quantities from all areas of the County,
including sources within the City of Port Angeles.
7 - Residential self-haul from all areas of the County excluding the City
of Port Angeles.
8 - Quantity shown is an estimated figure for 1990 provided by the
Planning and Economic Development Office for the Makah Tribal
Council.
g Quantity shown was provided by the Quileute Tribal Council.
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Table 2.4. Projected Municipal Solid Waste Quantities.
Tons of Solid Waste
Year PopulationI At Current Rate2 Based on
Goals3
1990 54,464 40,014 40,014
1995 57,712 42,400 38,800
2000 59,683 43,800 29,900
2010 63,860 46,900 31,800
I - From Table 2.2.
2 - Assumes. same per capita disposal rate as shown in Table 2.3 (4.03
pounds per person per day).
3 Assumes that goals established in Chapter Three of this Plan are met;
20 percent waste reduction and recycling in 1995, and 40 percent in
2000 and 2010. Also assumes that 1990 tonnage is after 13 percent
recycling (see Table 2.6).
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Table 2.5. Municipal Solid Waste Composition in Clallam County.!
Percent by Weiqht, As Disposed
Weighted
Material Residential Commercial Industrial Averaqe 2
PAPER, Subtotal 30.5 41.3 7.4 22.4
Newsprint 5.7 3.5 0.2 2.3
Corrugated Cardboard 4.8 15.9 3.0 7.3
Office Paper 0.3 1.6 1.0 1.1
Computer Paper 0.1 1.2 0.8 0.7
Mixed Paper 14.0 11.2 0.7 6.6
Nonrecyclable Paper 5.6 7.9 1.7 4.4
PLASTICS, Subtotal 8.0 10.7 2.2 6 0
PET Bottles 0.4 0.05 0 0 1
HDPE Bottles 0.5 0.02 0.2 0 2
Other Plastic Packaging 5.9 7.0 0.3 3 5
Expanded Polystyrene 0.4 1.5 0.1 0 6
Other Plastic Products 0.8 2.1 1.7 1 6
WOOD/YARD WASTE, Subtotal 23.5 8.6 43.8 28.9
Lawn and Garden Waste 22.3 2.5 0.3 5.4
Wood Waste 1.2 6.1 43.6 23.5
OTHER ORGANICS, Subtotal 18.0 19.7 2.6 11.0
Textiles and Leather 3.1 3.3 0.2 1.7
Food 10.9 12.6 2.1 7.1
Disposable Diapers 3.2 0.1 0 0.7
Rubber 0.8 3.7 0.2 1.4
GLASS, Subtotal 7.2 4.5 2.3 4.0
Recyclable Glass 7.0 3.2 2.0 3.4
Nonrecyclable Glass 0.2 1.3 0.3 0.6
METAL, Subtotal 5 1 11 7 0.9 5.1
Tin Cans 2 5 1 i 0.03 0.8
Other Ferrous/White Goods 0 7 7 5 0.8 2.8
Mixed Metals 0 8 2 3 0.03 0.9
Aluminum Cans 0 8 0 4 0.1 0.3
Other Aluminum 0 2 0 2 0.03 0.1
Other Non-Ferrous Metals 0 1 0 2 0 0.1
OTHER INORGANICS, Subtotal 7.6 3.2 40.7 22.5
Moderate Risk Waste 0.4 0.3 2.9 1.6
Ash 0.1 0.05 37.8 18.6
Construction Debris 0.6 0.9 0.03 0.4
Inerts and Fines 6.5 1.9 0.1 1.9
1 - From Best Manaqement Practices Analysis for Solid Waste, 1989, by Matrix Management
Group for the Washington Department of Ecology, adjusted to show industrial wastes
specific to Clallam County.
2 - Weighted average based on 13,200 tons per year (TPY) of residential waste, 20,000
TPY of commercial waste and 34,800 TPY of industrial waste.
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commercial, industrial and self-haul). Clallam County was placed in the
West WGA along with Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Mason and Pacific Counties.
For commercial and industrial generators, data is also provided on the
composition of waste produced by specific businesses. The data provided on
the composition of self-haul waste was not applicable to Clallam County due
to differences in record-keeping for waste tonnages.
To project residential waste composition in Clallam County, the data as
shown in the BMP for the West WGA was used without further adjustment. For
commercial and industrial wastes, data from the BMP for specific types of
businesses was used to calculate the composition of these waste streams as
generated in Clallam County, rather than simply taking the region-wide
estimate provided for the West WGA. This was done in recognition of the
differences in businesses and employment that exist in Clallam County
versus the region, and the impact that these differences have on the
composition and quantity of waste produced by the commercial sector.
To project commercial and industrial waste composition in Clallam County,
BMP data on waste composition by different types of businesses and waste
generation rates per employee, together with employment data from the
Washington State Employment Security Office, was used to calculate the
actual tons of waste materials produced. The results for the industrial
sector were modified through the addition of data on the amount of special
wastes generated by local industry; 15,000 tons per year {TPY} of wood
waste and 13,000 TPY of ash. This data was then used to calculate
commercial and industrial waste composition on a percentage basis as it is
generated in Clallam County, the results of which are shown in Table 2.5.
A weighted average for the total solid waste stream in Clallam County was
calculated based on the composition and quantity of the three primary waste
streams (residential, commercial and institutional, and industrial). This
was accomplished using data from the BMP, which indicates a breakdown of 33
percent residential, 50 percent commercial and 17 percent industrial for
the municipal solid waste stream, plus data on the quantity of special
industrial wastes {32,000 TPY of wood waste and ash}.
The solid waste composition figures shown in Table 2.5 are typical of the
waste streams in many areas, but it should be noted that the figures are
only an approximation of Clallam County's waste stream. Since the data for
the specific waste streams (residential, commercial and industrial) are
derived from a study of broad regional areas, these figures may or may not
accurately reflect the composition oF the waste stream as generated in
Clallam County. No data is available on the statistical accuracy of the
figures shown in Table 2.5, but the figures should be adequate for planning
purposes. Prior to any major investments that depend on the composition of
the waste stream, such as a composting plant or material recovery facility
(MRF), an actual waste composition study should be conducted in Clallam
County.
Waste composition can be expected to change in the future due to changes in
consumption patterns, packaging methods, disposal habits, and other
factors. These changes are very difficult to predict in the long term.
There are many who expect the amount of plastic in the waste stream to
increase while paper and glass decrease. It is possible, however, that
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increasing consumer awareness and concern about plastic's impact on the
environment will reverse this trend. Furthermore, implementation of this
Plan will substantially affect waste composition in Clallam County by
affecting purchasing and disposal habits (waste reduction) and by affecting
the quantity and types of materials recycled and composted.
2.3.3 Current Recycling Levels
It is estimated that about 13.2 percent of Clallam County's waste stream,
or 6,075 tons per year {1989 figures}, is currently recycled. Estimated
recycling levels by material are shown in Table 2.6.
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Table 2.6. Recycled Quantities by Material.1
Material Tons Recycled, 1989
Newsprint 166
Corrugated Cardboard 1,907
Office and Computer Paper 45
Mixed Paper 47
Glass 90
Tires 95
Used Oil 209
Aluminum Cans 251
Tin Cans 7
Other Non-Ferrous 148
Ferrous Metals 2,699
White Goods 400
Vehicle Batteries 11
TOTAL 6,075 Tons per Year
1 From the 1989 Washinqton State Recyclinq Survey (WDOE 1991), derived
through a comprehensive survey of markets, processors, and
collectors.
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CHAPTER 3: SOLID WASTE HANDLING SYSTEMS
3.1 INTRODUCTION
The six purposes of this chapter are:
· To review existing conditions and solid waste handling practices
for components of the County's solid waste management system.
· To identify needs, problems, or opportunities associated with
existing or proposed facilities or programs.
· To suggest alternatives.
· To recommend future programs or actions.
· To present implementation schedules and costs.
· To meet the requirements of Chapter (Ch.) 70.95 RCW.
The chapter is divided into nine additional sections, each of which
describes a possible component of the solid waste management system.
These sections are as follows:
· 3.2 Waste reduction
· 3.3 Recycling
· 3.4 Composting
· 3.5 Energy recovery and incineration
· 3.6 Solid waste collection
· 3.7 Transfer
· 3.8 Import/Export
· 3.9 Disposal
· 3.10 Regulations and administration
Each section includes a discussion of existing practices and programs,
present and future needs, alternative methods of addressing needs,
recommendations, and implementation schedules and costs.
One source of data and recommended solid waste management methods is the
Best Manaqement Practices (BMP) Analysis for Solid Waste (Matrix et al
1989). This study, for the Washington Department of Ecology's Office of
Waste Reduction and Recycling, divided the state into eight waste
generation areas. Clallam County was included in the West Waste Generation
Area (WGA), along with Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Mason and Pacific Counties.
The BMP estimated the quantity and composition of West WGA waste and the
current recycling levels. The BMP also identified existing and potential
solid waste management methods, identified barriers, recommended market
development strategies, and evaluated the capacity of markets to absorb
recyclables.
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Following an economic analysis, the BMP made solid waste management policy
recommendations based on the following objectives:
· Maximize cost-effective reduction.
· Plan for source-separated recycling.
· Strengthen institutional support for source-separated recycling.
· Provide funding and incentives for source-separated recycling.
· Increase opportunities for source-separated recycling.
· Use cost-effective and environmentally sound methods for separating
recyclables after collection of solid waste.
· Provide opportunities for better disposal methods.
One set of recommendations for reduction, recycling and disposal programs
was made by the consultants who conducted the BMP study. Another, similar
set of recommendations was made by a working group consisting of State,
city and county public works officials and representatives from private
sector solid waste companies. Both sets of recommendations are summarized
in Table 3.1.
Another document which provided information used in this section is the
Guidelines for the Development of Local Solid Waste Manaqement Plans and
Plan Revisions (WDOE 1990a). These new planning guidelines provide
information on the significance of new State laws, suggested services,
results of pilot programs, and the process for plan development review and
adoption. An important aspect of the guidelines is to bring about the
implementation of the goals stated in Ch. 70.95 RCW, including the
achievement of a fifty percent statewide recycling goal by 1995.
3.2 WASTE REDUCTION
3.2.1 Existing Conditions
Waste reduction methods are those activities that prevent a quantity or
type of waste from becoming part of the solid waste stream destined for
disposal. The success of waste reduction efforts depends on public
information and education to a greater extent than other system components.
The Washington Department of Ecology (WDOE) defines "public information" as
the specific pieces of information (brochures, notices, etc.), while
"public education" refers to the effort of distributing the informational
pieces.
The City of Port Angeles has encouraged waste reduction efforts through the
work of a Citizens Recycling Committee and a variety of public education
methods. Methods have included city newsletters, brochures, speakers at
various organizations, and advertisements in the newspaper, on television
and on the sides of buses. Topics have included reuse, mulching,
recycling, composting, landfill life and costs, and related ideas. It is
3-2
3-3
estimated that one-third of all County residents have been reached by waste
reduction education efforts. No estimate is available as to the amount of
waste that has been reduced by this effort.
A current practice in the County that qualifies as waste reduction is
backyard composting. A survey of residents of Clallam County (PSR 1989)
found that 53 percent of the households practice backyard composting for
lawn and garden clippings.
Currently, there are no disposal bans in effect at the transfer stations or
Port Angeles Landfill that would qualify as waste reduction measures.
There are a number of second hand stores that are currently operating in
Clallam County. These stores provide significant waste reduction by
promoting the reuse of products and materials. The second hand stores that
are located in Clallam County include:
Allied Auto Wrecking Angeles Music
Anne's Sequim Antiques Antique Junque
B-E Service and Supply Bessey~s Electric Service
Cain's Marine Service Chamberlin~s Appliance Repair
Country Cottage Antique Mall Country Living Store
Driftwood Cache - East Sequim Forks Clothing Bank
Fred's Hobbies and Guns Gardiner Antiques
Gilly~s Corner Store Gil~s New and Used Stuf
Grandma's Attic Great Northwestern Trading Co.
Harry Bong Auto Repair Heartline Batteries
Jacks Shooter Shop KB Auto Wrecking
Landmark Mall Langlois Pianos
Lincoln Second Hand Store Marion's Port Angeles Antiques
Mouse Trap Antiques O~Leary~s House Antiques
O~Leary~s Used Books and Comics Odessy Bookshop
Pac-Nor Hunting Supply Pat~s Pre-Owned Emporium
Pink Flamingo Antiques Puzzle Book Store
Quality Auto Wrecking & Parts Roundabout Furnishings & Collectibles
St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store Salvation Army Thrift Store
Sequim-Dungeness Hospital Guild Sequim Vacuum and Sewing Center
Thrift Shop Sequim~s Coin Buyer
Serenity House Thrift Store Shadowbox
Simpson~s Used Auto Parts Springtime Robins and Rainbows
Strait Music Sunshine Quality Consignment
Teen Challenge Thrift Shop Todays Hair and Yesterdays Ware
Treat's Second Hand & Pottery Waterfront Antique Mall
Studio Welcome Home Antiques and Folk Art
Wells Gunshop West End Motors
The majority of these stores are in the eastern part of the County, but
there are also a number of the stores on the western side. However, there
may be specific localities, such as Neah Bay, Sekiu/Clallam Bay, and La
Push, that are not well-served by existing second hand stores.
Additional businesses that might be considered second hand stores include
used car and truck dealers (about 20 are in Clallam County) and used boat
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dealers (about four operate in Clallam County). There are also a number of
businesses that are located outside of Clallam County but that service the
County for specialty items such as salvaged metal or coins. No data is
available as to the exact quantity of waste diverted by these stores.
3.2.2 Needs and Opportunities
Waste reduction is an activity that impacts all other aspects of solid
waste management by decreasing the amount of waste generated. Thus, the
promotion of waste reduction activities can be seen as an investment that
will reduce the future cost of solid waste disposal.
There is also a need to increase waste reduction efforts to comply with
State priorities. Local governments are required by Ch. 70.95 RCW to
expand waste reduction efforts.
While they may be politically unpopular, increases in solid waste manage-
ment costs (and therefore, the price that the public pays) should be viewed
as an opportunity to promote waste reduction. Price increases are certain
to gain the public's attention. This in turn makes citizens more aware of
and receptive to information about solid waste, including the fact that a
price increase reflects the true cost of proper, environmentally-sound
solid waste management. At the time of any price increases, the public
should be informed as to what can be done to keep the cost of solid waste
management at a minimum.
Measurement of waste reduction can be very difficult. Monitoring per
capita waste generation rates has been proposed by some, but a waste
reduction level of five percent can easily be masked or "created" by
unrelated fluctuations in waste quantities. Previous studies have shown
that waste quantities may vary by ten to fifteen percent without there
being an obvious reason for the variation, although a loose correlation
with economic cycles can sometimes be observed (Metro Council 1985). It
may be possible to measure the quantity of a specific material, such as
yard waste, to test for waste reduction, but this can be complicated by
other factors.
In Clallam County, the apparent waste generation rate could be further
affected by a number of factors, including tourism and increased disposal
costs or economic hardships. The rate of tourism could increase or
decrease, causing the total quantity of waste generated in Clallam County
to change independently of the County's population. Increased disposal
costs or economic hardships could cause more people to burn trash in their
backyards, leading to reductions in waste volumes through an undesirable
method. Because of these problems, the evaluation of waste reduction
programs may have to be based on the activities that are performed instead
of trying to measure the actual waste reduction rate. In other words,
waste reduction programs in Clallam County could be considered successful
if the planned activities are conducted.
3.2.3 Alternative Methods
The primary approach to waste reduction is typically to encourage waste
reduction practices through public information and education. The goal of
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public involvement and education programs is to change the public's view of
solid waste and its management, and hence to change their disposal habits.
Examples of how this can be accomplished include encouraging the public to
purchase products that can be repaired, reused, or refilled, or products
that have longer warrantees and/or better guarantees.
The following information on waste reduction alternatives is split into two
parts. Since public education is such an important part of a waste
reduction program, public information methods are discussed first. The
actual waste reduction methods that 'can be promoted through public
education are discussed second.
Public Information and Education
Although public education is strictly defined as a means to an end rather
than an end in itself, it can also be viewed as an actual waste reduction
method. This is based on the idea that increased awareness of disposal
problems will lead to general conservation of resources and other waste
reduction measures.
Education was ranked as the best waste reduction method by both the WGA
working group and the BMP consultants. Education was considered to be
reasonably cost-effective, with excellent long-term environmental benefits.
Public information materials must motivate people to engage in activities
that represent a change in behavior. Motivating people to act involves
gaining their attention first and then providing reasons for reducing
wastes. This information should be presented in as positive a manner as
possible. Once motivated to act, people and businesses must be informed of
opportunities that are available, such as locations where materials can be
donated for reuse and how to compost yard wastes.
Possible methods that can be used for public education programs include:
· A theme, which provides the overall appearance and tone of a public
education campaign. Choosing and following a theme increases the
effectiveness of a campaign by increasing the public's ability to
identify campaign materials.
· A slogan is handy and one should be developed at the outset of a
public education campaign. A slogan can be used with other forms
of public education and, once a slogan has been publicized
sufficiently, it becomes easily identified by itself and can be
used alone or inserted into a variety of applications.
· Brochures can be used to announce a new program, explain an
existing program, or promote awareness and motivate participation.
· Newsletters, either specifically designed and published for solid
waste issues or articles in existing newsletters, can help promote
awareness and distribute information.
· Bill inserts in utility or garbage collection bills are typically
noticed by a substantial share of the population, whereas other
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forms of mass mailing may receive little notice before being
discarded.
· Paid advertisements in newspapers, on radio and/or on television
may be viewed by large numbers of the target audience. Ads for
radio and television are very expensive to produce and put on the
air.
· Press releases are typically used in conjunction with an event.
· Portable displays can be put in public places to build awareness,
and can also be used to distribute written information.
· Public speakers are very useful in meetings such as PTA, chamber of
commerce, church groups, and others.
· A variety of curricula and presentations have been produced for use
in schools.
· Audio-visual materials, such as slide shows and videotapes, can be
used to promote awareness at schools, public meetings and other
settings.
· For commercial recycling programs, employee training can be very
helpful in promoting awareness and helping employees to understand
material separation guidelines. Outreach programs for company
owners may be an important first step in gaining their cooperation,
· A variety of promotional materials, such as bumper stickers and
buttons, can be used to supplement other awareness-building
efforts. These materials should be developed and distributed
carefully to maintain consistency with the overall theme of the
campaign.
· Radio and television stations are required by federal law to
allocate a set amount of air time to public service announcements
(PSA~s), although many people may be competing for this time.
· Fairs, festivals, art shows and other events can be a good time to
distribute information to many people or to conduct special shows
and other activities to promote awareness.
· Telephone hotlines can be a good way to disburse information.
Although the Department of Ecology already operates a toll-free
hotline and this number could be publicized, a local hotline may be
needed to distribute detailed information about specific programs.
· Personal contacts such as door-to-door visits can be effective
because these visits can address problems that may be preventing
people from participating.
· Advertisements can be placed in many different locations, such as
grocery bags, covers of phone books, posters, billboards, reader
boards, banners, and point-of-purchase displays. This should be
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done carefully to avoid sending inconsistent messages. For
instance, placing an ad in phone books may not be appropriate if
phone books cannot be recycled through local programs.
Waste Reduction Methods
The followingwaste reduction methods can be promoted through a public
education program:
· Backyard composting of grass clippings and leaves, primarily by the
residential generators who dispose of most of the yard waste, can
decrease the amount of this waste and create a material (compost}
with beneficial uses.
· Mulching grass clippings (leaving clippings on the lawn or placing
them in gardens} can reduce the amount of yard waste and reduce the
amount of work involved in lawn care.
· Banning disposal of certain products at the landfills and/or
transfer stations can be used to target specific materials.
· Incentives/disincentives, such as disproportionately higher
collection or tipping fees for larger amounts of waste (volume-
based fees), can be used to encourage and reward waste reduction.
· Reuse of materials for the same purpose can be increased by making
greater use of Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul and other second
hand stores.
· Repair of products can be encouraged as a cost-effective
alternative to replacement.
· Changes in manufacturing practices that reduce the production of a
specific waste material can be encouraged through waste audits.
· Waste audits and other methods can also be used to encourage
businesses and agencies to employ purchasing policies and practices
which favor products made from recycled materials or which avoid
over-packaged products.
· "Smart shopping" can be promoted, such as encouraging the purchase
o6 repairable products, products with longer warranties, and
reusable and refillable products.
In many locales, waste reduction programs have focused on backyard
composting and/or mulching of yard wastes as a method of achieving
substantial waste reduction, since yard debris (grass clippings, leaves,
and branches) comprise a significant portion of the solid waste stream.
For example, King County has developed an ambitious program to underwrite
the distribution of 44,000 backyard compost bins. Due to Clallam County's
largely rural nature and the additional yard space that is probably
available for composting, however, the distribution of special bins may not
be necessary. It should be noted that backyard composting is considered a
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waste reduction method since the yard debris is not hauled off-.site and
therefore does not become part of the waste stream. Centralized composting
is discussed in detail in Section 3.4 of this Plan.
Fears about attracting rodents and other vermin have been raised by the
idea of backyard composting, but experience has shown that compost piles do
not typically provide habitat or food for rodents or other pests. It is
even possible to introduce food wastes into such piles, or into "worm
bins", without creating problems if this is done properly. Worm bins are
covered boxes within which a population of worms is maintained and the end
product (worm castings) is occasionally harvested. Such bins have been
found to be an easy method of producing an excellent soil amendment.
Mulching of grass clippings, with or without the use of special mulching
blades on the lawnmower, may raise fears about the negative impacts caused
by thatch build-up and other problems. However, turf experts have recently
come to recognize that a small amount of thatch is beneficial to lawns and
that mulching is an acceptable way to promote a healthy lawn by returning
nutrients and humus.
Education programs could motivate people to handle yard waste through other
methods and provide information on the means of doing this properly.
Methods of providing this education include brochures, demonstration plots
at disposal sites and other locations, and master composter programs.
Master composter programs are modeled after master gardener programs where
trained volunteers are available to assist people with establishing
backyard composting piles. For a rural area like Clallam County, written
information such as brochures and a demonstration site(s) may be more cost
effective than a network of trained volunteers.
Disposal bans prevent certain materials from being discarded for disposal
at curbside, transfer stations, or at landfills. For example, some areas
have banned disposal of yard waste with garbage, forcing this material to
be handled through backyard composting or other methods. Disposal bans can
be troublesome in rural areas by tempting some residents to illegal dispose
their Waste. State law prevents "product bans", or the banning of specific
products such as polystyrene containers from being used, while allowing
disposal bans, such as a ban on vehicle batteries being placed in a
landfill, on the basis of public health and safety.
Financial incentives and disincentives have been used successfully in many
urban areas. The use of volume-based, or differential, rates increases
residents~ awareness of waste generation, and can provide financial
incentives for participation in waste reduction and recycling programs.
Examples of financial incentives/disincentives include higher rates for
larger volumes of waste, special fees for specific wastes, and discounts
for participation in recycling programs. Special fees could be applied to
bags of yard wastes, for instance, to encourage people to handle yard
wastes separately from garbage. The use of differential rates often has
the support of the general public. In a survey (PSR 1989), 52 percent of
Clallam County residents felt that households should be charged more if
they do not separate recyclables from their garbage, 32 percent felt this
should not be done, and 16 percent weren't sure.
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In practice, however, volume-based rates may tempt some residents to
illegally dump their waste, especially in the rural areas of Clallam
County. Although volume-based rates are currently used in some areas of
Clallam County, additional or more extensive use of this rate structure
should be considered carefully before implementation. Furthermore, the
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) does not
presently allow the use of some types of differential rates (such as
disproportionate or linear-increasing rates) in areas served by franchised
("certificated") haulers. Financial incentives in these areas must be
based on actual cost differences, although it is still possible to provide
reduced rates to households who are not disposing of yard waste and other
recyclable materials. The WUTC does not regulate garbage collection
services provided by municipal agencies or by private haulers under
contract, and so greater flexibility in establishing differential rates is
possible in these areas.
In addition to the large number of second hand and similar stores currently
active in Clallam County, reuse of materials for their original purpose can
be accomplished through garage sales, a barter/borrow board, a "reuse
ranch" and other activities. These activities may be especially helpful if
there are areas of the County that are not well-served by the current
system of second hand stores. In this case, it may be more appropriate for
local agencies (such as city governments and Tribal Councils) to establish
the additional services, unless a reuse ranch could be established at a
County facility (such as a transfer station).
The barter/borrow board is less formal and more timely than a waste
exchange, and it involves residents and businesses offering items for
barter or requesting to borrow infrequently used items. If the County
provided space and forms for this, the initial cost would be about $5,000
(primarily for promotion) and annual operating expenses would be about
$500. A reuse ranch is an area at a recycling center or disposal facility
that is set aside to make available a variety of reusable items at no cost.
The annual cost of a reuse ranch may be as low as $1,000 for publicity
alone or up to $10,000 for leasing a structure and other costs. Other
activities include programs by grocery stores which encourage people to
bring back their bags. The impact for any one of these activities on the
amount of waste disposed is probably small, but altogether they may have a
substantial impact.
Repairing instead of replacing items with new products could be encouraged
by publicizing the cost savings associated with this approach and the local
opportunities presented by shops that repair shoes, lawn mowers, appliances
and other goods.
The reuse of industrial wastes through a waste exchange can be considered
to be either waste reduction or recycling, depending on how the waste is
used in the manufacturing process. Waste exchanges are available in this
area, such as the Pacific Materials Exchange in Spokane or the Industrial
Materials Exchange sponsored by Seattle and King County. The cost for a
local waste exchange would be about $5,000 per year. This cost would
provide quarterly publication of a newsletter listing available wastes or
materials from industrial, commercial and residential sources.
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The purchasing policies of public agencies could be revised to encourage
the use of recycled materials. Such purchasing policies are typically
viewed as a waste reduction measure, even though they could also be
considered a market-building strategy for recyclable materials. For
example, the County and cities could choose to use recycled paper for their
documents, which would increase the demand {and price) for recyclable
paper. Currently, the County purchases its paper through the State, which
receives discounts for purchasing large volumes of paper. The State
Purchasing Department has begun to stock recycled paper, and the County
could purchase recycled paper through this source. Although the price is
somewhat higher than comparable grades of paper, the price of the recycled
paper is expected to drop in the future.
A good example of a purchasing practice is "smart shopping", where people
are encouraged to avoid purchasing over-packaged, disposable products or
goods sold in non-recyclable packaging. To avoid over-packaging, people
can be encouraged to purchase food and other products in bulk. The use of
disposable products can be discouraged by publicizing their environmental
costs and their relative economic costs versus "non-disposable" products.
Recently, the recyclability of packaging has been recognized as a marketing
issue by retailers. In the Seattle area, many supermarkets and other
retailers have begun posting signs next to "environmentally-friendly"
products that use recycled materials or are environmentally benign. It is
also possible to use trained volunteers to assist people while they shop.
If volunteers could not be arranged for this, the cost may be up to $25,000
per year for two part-time staff. As with other waste reduction policies,
purchasing policies depend on the willingness of people to accept a
different quality or type of product.
Waste audits can be an effective method for reducing wastes produced by
industrial and commercial businesses, and the audits could be used as an
opportunity to encourage the use of recycled paper. WDOE, in cooperation
with counties and cities, provides recycling audits for solid and toxic
wastes. It is often possible for someone trained in recycling audits to go
into a business and identify waste reduction and recycling opportunities
that may be overlooked by the business operators.
3.2.4 Recommendations
Public information and education should be pursued. The responsibility for
this should be shared by the County, the cities, the Tribal Councils, and
the schools, with private sector involvement as appropriate (i.e., notices
from Olympic Disposal and Gary's Oisposal to their customers). A shared
approach should improve results by increasing exposure to the public
information on waste reduction, and because individuals may be more
receptive to information from one source over another. For instance,
efforts in other locales have demonstrated that notices from garbage
haulers are an effective method of reaching a certain percentage of the
population. In all cases, public information materials should be
distributed with other mailings, such as property tax statements, to reduce
mailing costs.
To a large extent, information on waste reduction education can be combined
with public information on recycling, but a separate brochure {or packet of
3-11
materials) should be developed for waste reduction and distributed once per
year. A separate brochure should also be done for yard wastes, to cover
both waste reduction techniques (mulching and backyard composting) and new
composting programs. Although a significant portion (53 percent) of the
County residents already practice backyard composting, the remaining half
of the population is generating a substantial amount and they need to be
encouraged to handle it through other means.
Since there are a large number of second hand stores currently operating in
Clallam County, there is no need for the County to establish a
barter/borrow board or a reuse ranch. The idea of waste exchanges and
similar activities directed specifically at businesses should be considered
for future implementation. An evaluation of the need for municipal
involvement should be based on observations made during waste audits.
Waste audits should be conducted, and small to medium-sized businesses
should be targeted first on the assumption that the larger businesses have
the staff and other resources to best meet their needs. Assistance in
conducting the waste audits should be requested from WDOE staff.
At a minimum, the County should purchase some recycled paper for special
purposes, such as brochures promoting waste reduction and recycling, and
encourage others to do so also. Although the total amount of paper that
Clallam County and other municipalities consume is relatively small and
their purchase of recycled paper will have only a minor impact on the paper
markets, the use of recycled paper in some instances (i.e., for brochures
on recycling) will be an important aspect of sending a clear and consistent
message to the public.
The use of other recycled products should also be considered. The County
should examine the applicability of Model Procurement Policy, and should
look to the State's GOLD program and the Buy Recycled Law (SSSB 5143) for
direction. Clallam County is required to adhere to the Buy Recycled Law
since their 1989 expenditures for supplies were above $500,000. This law
requires that Clallam County:
· Designate a procurement officer to serve as a contact person with
the State General Administration Department.
· Adopt a minimum purchasing goal by fiscal year 1994 to target
purchases of products with recycled content as a percentage of
total supplies cost.
· Adopt a strategy to achieve purchasing goals and to submit a copy
of the strategy to General Administration by January 1993.
· Also by January 1993, review and revise procurement policies and
specifications to ensure that recycled products are not excluded.
· Adopt specifications for compost products to be used in road
projects. The Buy Recycled Law also established a specific
schedule for the percentage of purchases that shall be dedicated to
compost products.
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· Include a notification in procurement solicitations that the County
intends to purchase products with recycled content.
· Consider the adoption of preferential purchasing policies, rules or
ordinances for products with recycled content. The Buy Recycled
Law promotes preferential purchasing policies for recycled paper,
compost, latex paint, tires, plastics, oil, batteries, and
insulation.
Public education should encourage waste reduction activities which are
practical and available in Clallam County, including:
· "Smart" shopping, including the purchase of goods in minimal and/or
recyclable packaging, and the purchase of goods that are repairable
or refillable.
· Donations of reusable materials to charitable organizations.
· Increased use of second hand stores for purchase of used products,
and the increased use of repair services as an alternative to
purchasing new goods.
· Yard waste reduction through increased mulching and backyard
composting.
· Examination of waste production practices by businesses through
waste audits.
· Using public education materials that are already developed, such
as the materials developed by Port Angeles.
Waste reduction education for school children should be a high priority.
Existing curriculum materials should be used where possible, but a priority
needs to be placed on the use of these materials.
Increased use of volume-based rates for households with garbage collection
should be explored for all areas of Clallam County, although a significant
portion of the population is already covered by rates based on one versus
two cans per week. More emphasis should be placed on other types of
differential rates, such as additional charges for those who put yard
wastes out with garbage or who do not separate recyclable materials from
their garbage. The type of rate that can be used will depend in part on
whether the area is served by a franchised hauler or is under contract, but
the WUTC does allow some types of differential rates, such as additional
charges to households that do not separate recyclables and/or yard waste.
To accomplish this, the County may wish to enact a service level ordinance.
Due to the difficulty in measuring actual results and the large degree of
overlap in reduction and recycling activities, a separate goal for waste
reduction is not the best approach for Clallam County. Numerical goals
would be more of a hindrance than they would be beneficial, due to the
difficulty in measuring performance based on these goals and the resulting
confusion that could hinder meaningful actions. Instead, the goal for
3-13
waste reduction has been combined with recycling and composting (see
Section 3.3.4), and evaluation of the waste reduction program will be
conducted using performance-based standards, such as the amount of public
information activities that are conducted.
Using a performance-based standard, the waste reduction program would be
evaluated based on whether the activities discussed below have been
conducted on schedule. To back up the performance-based standards, surveys
could be conducted every few years to test changes in public attitudes and
practices. These surveys could also be used to test the effectiveness of
various public education methods, by askin§ respondents where or how they
had received information on waste reduction techniques. Although this
approach can help quantify the diversion of specific materials (such as
yard waste through backyard composting), it still falls short of accurately
quantifying waste reduction programs~ true overall impact.
In addition to surveys, waste composition studies may be also be helpful in
determining waste reduction results. However, accomplishing this with any
accuracy would require very extensive analysis of current (baseline) waste
composition and future waste composition. Even then, the best that could
be hoped for is an indication of whether specific materials have been
reduced.
3.2.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
Starting in 1992, the following activities should be conducted annually:
· A brochure or packet of materials dedicated to waste reduction,
distributed to each household in the County and made available
through other means (libraries, city offices, etc.). Approximate
cost for printing and distribution = $15,000 per year (assumes
minimal development costs and mailing expenses shared with tax
statement or other mailing).
· A brochure dedicated to yard waste management, including backyard
composting, mulching and other composting programs (composting at
centralized sites or separate collection), and distributed to each
household. Approximate cost : $10,000 for development costs and
for first-year printing and distribution costs. To reduce the
portion of expense that is associated with brochure development,
existing brochures used by other agencies should be used as
starting point.
· School curriculum revised as needed to include waste reduction
'materials. Approximate cost = slight additional printing expense
if existing materials are used.
· Waste audits for small to medium-sized businesses. Approximate
cost : staff time only.
· Survey conducted every two to three years to determine percentage
of households employing various waste reduction techniques.
Approximate cost : $2,000 per survey.
3-14
3.3 RECYCLING
3.3.1 Existing Conditions
Recycling in Clallam County is handled primarily through private
companies, and in some cases through contracts with municipalities. Some
promotion has been conducted by the public sector. For example, the City
of Port Angeles has encouraged recycling through city newsletters,
brochures, the work of a Citizens Recycling Committee, and ads in a
variety of locations. The Citizen's Recycling Committee examined
different methods of recycling (curbside, drop-offs, and other options),
and made recommendations to the City Council in 1990 for curbside
recycling and yard waste collection.
According to data from the 1989 Washinqton State Recyclinq Survey (WDOE
1991), 6,075 tons of materials were recycled from Clallam County in 1989.
This amount represents about 13.2 percent of the total amount of
municipal solid waste generated.
Existinq Collection Methods
Four types of collection methods are employed in Clallam County for
recycling: drop-off sites, buy-back centers, household (curbside), and
commercial.
Drop-Off Sites: Drop-off sites are facilities which accept materials for
donation only and usually consist of an unstaffed bin, box or shed. The
Red Cross and Boy Scout organizations collect newspapers through drop
boxes.
Beginning in 1989, the County's contract for operation of its Lake Creek,
Blue Mountain, and Clallam Bay transfer stations requires Olympic Disposal
to separately receive recyclable materials {aluminum cans, glass, and
newspaper) deposited by people who haul garbage to the stations. At the
transfer stations, Olympic Disposal provides 50-gallon drums or one-yard
containers, depending upon the type of material and the amount collected.
The size of containers is based in part on the desire to empty them every
two days, so that materials are not stored for lengthy periods at the
sites.
Olympic Disposal also operates a drop-off center for recyclables at their
offices located at 901-A Woodcock Road. This drop-off center, which is
staffed to ensure materials are dropped off properly, provides 50-gallon
drums to collect newspaper, the three colors of glass, tin and aluminum
cans, and PET bottles. The drums are emptied into 30- or 40-yard roll-off
containers when full. The roll-off containers are also used to consolidate
materials collected from the transfer stations. About four of the roll-off
containers are filled each week.
The City of Port Angeles has a contract with Environmental Waste Systems
(EWS) to provide a salvage operation at the City landfill. In addition
to the traditional recyclable materials (cans, paper and glass) that are
accepted at the landfill, white goods, tires, auto batteries and oil are
also collected for recycling.
3-15
Bu.¥-Back Centers: Environmental Waste Systems (EWS), formerly P.A.R.T., is
a private enterprise located at 2602 West 18th in Port Angeles, 452-7278.
Hours of operation are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturdays. EWS purchases aluminum cans, copper,
brass, scrap aluminum, and other non-ferrous metals. This center accepts,
without giving payment or charging a fee, glass, cardboard, ledger paper
and certain plastics. EWS also provides curbside collection to residences
in Port Angeles and Sequim (through a contract with those cities), and
collects recyclables from businesses and schools.
The EWS site is on approximately four acres, and includes three buildings;
a warehouse about 4,000 square feet in size, an attached office about 700
square feet in size, and a detached office 600 to 700 square feet in size.
Interim storage of materials, prior to shipment to market, is outdoors in
bunkers. In front of the warehouse are placed roll-carts and larger
containers for accepting recyclable materials from the public. Materials
for which payment is given are first weighed before being placed into these
containers.
All Metal Recycling, at Second and Albert in Port Angeles (452-7902)
purchases non-ferrous metals for recycling. All Metal Recycling also
purchases small amounts of ferrous metals and provides collection of
recyclable material, depending upon the type and amount offered, but this
is rarely done. All Metal Recycling operates out of a rental property
that was an automotive shop, with a scale and storage being accomplished
in what was a two-stall garage.
Clallam County residents and businesses also take material to a buy-back
center operated by Navy City Metals in Gorst (Kitsap County), who
purchases non-ferrous metals and car bodies. Navy City Metals also
accepts, without payments or fees, appliances (without compressors) and
tin (but no tin cans).
Curbside Recyclinq Collection: As a result of a Request for Proposals
(RFP) issued by Port Angeles and Sequim in 1990, EWS was selected to
provide curbside collection to approximately 6,000 residential units in
Port Angeles and 2,000 residential units in Sequim beginning July 1,
1991. All material collected is delivered to the EWS site for processing
and eventual marketing. From July i through December 31, 1991, 867 tons
of recyclable material (cans, glass, paper and plastic) was collected
through the curbside route in Port Angeles.
Collection from Commercial Generators: For many years, Port Angeles
Recycling Team (P.A.R.T.) collected cardboard from businesses in Port
Angeles, until they were purchased in 1991 by EWS. On October 1, 1991,
EWS expanded this service to collect ledger paper. The City of Sequim
collects cardboard from commercial accounts using a side-loader vehicle
from its municipal fleet. The City of Sequim sells this cardboard to
EWS.
George Zink~s Salvage collects scrap metals from commercial and industrial
businesses, including some construction and demolition contractors. This
company accepts scrap iron, aluminum, and other ferrous and non-ferrous
metals, but does not take appliances or car bodies.
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Collections from commercial and institutional generators is also done by
Olympic Disposal and other organizations, such as schools. Clallam Bay
Prison handles their own recyclable materials; bringing cardboard, aluminum
cans and tin cans to EWS.
Materials Beinq Recycled in Clallam County
A wide variety of post-consumer materials can theoretically be recycled.
However, it may not be possible to recycle some materials in Clallam County
due to low market prices, higher transportation costs (caused by greater
distance to markets), and the relatively small quantities generated in
Clallam County. The following is a description of the current efforts and
market outlook for commonly recycled materials. Information on the
quantities of these materials that are currently being recycled is shown in
Table 2.6.
Newspaper: Within Clallam County approximately 166 tons of newspaper, or
10 percent of the total amount generated, was collected for recycling in
1989. Newspaper collections are currently being conducted by Olympic
Disposal at a number of sites (County transfer stations and other sites),
by EWS at the Port Angeles Landfill and through curbside routes in Port
Angeles and Sequim, and Boy Scouts have resumed collections through drop-
off boxes. The City of Port Angeles has contracted with the Boy Scouts to
have them operate four drop-off sites, constructed by the City, using three
semi-trailers purchased by the City.
The local market for newspaper has improved due to the newspaper de-inking
facilities that have been installed at the Daishowa America plant in Port
Angeles. This expansion allows Daishowa America to accept approximately
200 tons per day of old newspapers. Old magazines will be added late in
1992, and Daishowa America will also begin recycling phone directories in
1993. At the end of three years, Daishowa America is expected to be
processing a mixture consisting of 40 percent old newspaper, 40 percent
phone directories, and 20 percent magazines (CWC 1991).
Corruqated Cardboard (OCC): Corrugated cardboard is generated in small
quantities by the residential sector and in large quantities by companies
such as supermarkets and retail stores. In 1989, approximately 1,907
tons of cardboard, or 28 percent of the total amount generated, was
collected for recycling. EWS currently collects cardboard from
businesses in Port Angeles and at their buy-back center, and cardboard is
one of the materials collected curbside by EWS in Port Angeles and
Sequim. £WS bales cardboard for shipment to Georgia Pacific in Toledo,
Oregon. In addition, Olympic Disposal accepts cardboard at the County
transfer stations and the City of Sequim is collecting cardboard from
commercial accounts in the city.
Hiqh-Grade Paper: Office paper and computer paper are generated primarily
by businesses. Approximately 45 tons, or about 4 percent of all office and
computer paper generated in the County, was collected for recycling in
1989. EWS collects high-grade ledger paper from businesses in Port
'Angeles, and also collects it from households participating in the curbside
routes in Port Angeles and Sequim.
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Mixed Waste Paper: Mixed waste paper is a low grade of waste paper that
includes a variety of bleachable paper ("junk mail" and magazines) and
unbleachable paper (boxboard and other non-corrugated cardboard). It often
contains significant quantities of paper that would have high value, such
as ledger papers and cardboard, if separated from the mixture. In 1989,
approximately 47 tons, or 1 percent of the total amount, was collected for
recycling. At present small quantities are accepted on curbside routes.
Glass: Approximately 90 tons, or about 4 percent of all recyclable glass
generated, was collected for recycling in 1989. At present, EWS and
Olympic Disposal are both accepting glass for recycling. EWS collects it
through their buy-back center and through curbside routes in Port Angeles
and Sequim. This glass, known as cullet when crushed for transportation
and handling purposes, consists of post-consumer food and beverage
containers. The material collected for recycling must not contain
contaminants such as window glass and ceramics {which melt at higher
temperatures), and must be sorted by color (clear, brown and green).
Prices for glass are relatively low, since it is made of inexpensive,
readily-available raw materials such as sand, soda ash, and limestone.
Aluminum Cans and Foil: Approximately 251 tons, or 47 percent of all
aluminum generated, was collected for recycling from Clallam County in
1989. Aluminum beverage cans make up the bulk of this material, although
aluminum foil and food trays are also accepted. Recycled aluminum has a
relatively high market value and most collection centers are able to pay
consumers for this material. Currently, All Metals, EWS, and Olympic
Disposal purchase or accept this material for recycling. This is also one
of the materials that EWS collects through curbside routes in Port Angeles
and Sequim.
Tin Cans: Tin cans are the tin-plated steel cans used for packaging foods
such as vegetables and soups. In 1989, approximately 7 tons, or 1 percent
of all tin cans generated in the County, was collected for recycling.
Olympic Disposal currently accepts tin cans at their various drop-off
locations, and it is one of the materials that EWS collects through
curbside routes in Port Angeles and Sequim. All Metal Recycling previously
collected this material, but only for a short time. They discontinued
collecting tin cans because it proved to be a net cost to handle.
Transportation cost was a factor in All Metal Recycling~s losses for tin
cans, in part because they market all other materials in the Tacoma area
and tin cans must be shipped to the Seattle area for detinning.
Ferrous Metals and White Goods: Ferrous metals are scrap iron and steel
items (e.g., metals that contain a high percentage of iron), including
stainless steel. White goods are major appliances such as refrigerators
and water heaters. Within Clallam County approximately 2,699 tons of
ferrous metals and 400 tons of white goods, or 62 percent of all ferrous
metals and white goods generated in the County, were collected for
recycling in 1989. All Metal Recycling, Olympic Disposal and EWS currently
accept ferrous metals at their drop-off locations. EWS also accepts the
material on curbside collection routes. White goods are currently accepted
at the Port Angeles Landfill for a fee and set aside for later processing.
When a sufficient quantity is collected, a company is hired to prepare the
white goods by baling them and then transporting them to market. Beginning
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July 1, 1992, the Freon in the refrigerators and freezers must be removed
at the landfill and retained prior to recycling the metal.
Non-Ferrous Metals: Non-ferrous metals are those metals that do not
contain a high amount of iron, including aluminum, copper, lead, zinc,
nickel, silver, precious metals such as gold, and alloys such as brass.
Approximately 148 tons, or 79 percent of all non-ferrous metals generated
in Clallam County, was collected for recycling in 1989. All Metal
Recycling and EWS currently accept non-ferrous metals.
PET Bottles: Polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, is the primary material
that constitutes the plastic soda bottle. Recently, PET has also been used
to make some liquor bottles. Olympic Disposal accepts PET at the transfer
stations. EWS accepts the material at their site and is collecting PET
soda and liquor bottles through the curbside routes in Port Angeles and
Sequim.
HDPE Bottles: High density polyethylene, or HDPE, is used for a variety of
food packaging, such as ~ilk jugs, detergent and bleach bottles, and the
base cups on PET soda bottles. Olympic Disposal collects HDPE bottles at
the transfer stations, and EWS is collecting one-gallon HDPE milk bottles
through the curbside routes in Port Angeles and Sequim.
Moderate Risk Wastes: Moderate risk wastes collected for recycling in
Clallam County include 209 tons of used oil and 11 tons of vehicle
batteries (1989 figures).
Processinq of Rec¥clables
Currently, processing of recyclable materials is performed by EWS and All
Metal Recycling, both in Port Angeles. All Metal Recycling prepares the
metals that they collect for recycling by separating them into grades and
placing them into containers for shipping. EWS also processes all of the
materials that they collect to meet market specifications and to reduce
transportation costs. Cardboard is baled, aluminum cans are compacted
into "biscuits", and other materials are placed into 40 cubic yard drop
box containers as appropriate. Biscuits are small compressed "bales" of
aluminum cans which stack easily for handling and transportation.
Markets
Markets for many materials from Clallam County are poor at this time.
Transportation costs are a problem since all materials have to be shipped
off of the Olympic Peninsula. Metals and high-grade paper must be
shipped to markets in Seattle and Tacoma. Cardboard is transported by
Georgia Pacific to their plant in Toledo, Oregon, or is transported by
EWS to Longview Fibre Company. Glass is transported to the Owens-
Brockway plant in Portland, Oregon by EWS or by a trucking firm.
3.3.2 Needs and Opportunities
RCW 70.95.090 requires that urban areas receive curbside recycling
services. The criteria to be used for classifying areas as urban include
State planning guidelines, total population, population density, and any
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applicable land use or utility service plans. The City of Port Angeles, as
the only city with a population over 5,000, is designated to be the only
urban area in Clallam County. Other areas of the County are not required
to receive curbside recycling service, although it would assist in further
reducing the waste stream.
Economic considerations are a major barrier to additional recycling in
Clallam County. If recycling collections are to increase significantly in
Clallam County, there must be a substantial improvement in markets or
financial support must be provided to cover the expenses associated with
collection programs. Without good market prices or outside support,
recycling programs may not be permanently sustained. For example, the drop
boxes for newspaper maintained by the Red Cross and Boy Scouts were
discontinued from 1988 to mid-1990 due to poor prices, although Olympic
Disposal temporarily located bins for newspaper at some of the discontinued
sites and the Boy Scouts have now resumed some of their recycling
activities.
The Quileute Tribal Council has proposed to establish a curbside recycling
program in La Push and other areas of the west end of Clallam County. This
proposal was developed through a cooperative effort involving the Tribal
Council, Clallam County, and the City of Forks. The proposed activities
include establishing curbside services and conducting public education
activities for residents and businesses in the Quileute Reservation at La
Push and in the City of Forks. A second proposal also addresses the
construction of a recycling dropsite in La Push that would serve as a
public drop-off center, an interim storage area for recyclable materials
from all sources, and a home base (truck parking and office) for the
collection program. Tourists visiting the areas would also be served
through bins placed at locations such as the resort in La Push. Recyclable
materials collected would be transferred to the Lake Creek Transfer
Station, which would require some modifications of this facility to
accommodate large loads of recyclable materials. In addition, the Quileute
Tribe is interested in possibly developing programs for composting yard and
food waste, and for collecting household hazardous wastes. Implementation
of these activities will require the execution of intergovernmental
agreement(s) to address funding and management of the programs.
3.3.3 Alternative Methods
There are a number of methods for increasing recycling, including methods
that are currently in use and that could be expanded or new methods. These
alternatives include curbside recycling (mandatory or voluntary, commingled
or source-segregated); commercial recycling programs (collections or drop-
off, for a variety of materials); drop-off centers (publicly or privately
operated, with or without buy-back of some materials); and material
recovery facilities (private or public, with varying degrees of capacity
and capabilities).
As shown in Table 3.1, the WGA working group and the BMP consultants
advocated drop-off and buy-back centers, public education, collections from
commercial establishments, incentives, and centralized yard waste
composting. A lower priority was given to curbside recycling and mixed
waste processing.
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Considerations which apply to the choice of recycling program options are
discussed below. Centralized yard waste composting is discussed in Section
3.4.
Desiqn of a Recycling Program
A number of considerations apply to the design of a recycling program.
First, the design of the recycling program will influence the amount of
recycling that is accomplished in two ways: 1) by determining the
theoretical maximum or potential amount {percentage of the waste stream, by
weight) that can be recycled and 2) by influencing the participation rate.
As an example of the theoretical maximum, residential and commercial
recycling programs which collect newspaper (at 3.9 percent of the total
waste stream}, glass bottles and containers (5.6 percent), cardboard {12.2
percent), and cans (aluminum and tin cans, 1.9 percent}, for a potential
additional amount (above the amounts of these materials currently being
collected for recycling) of 23.6 percent of the waste stream {see Table
2.5). If the program also collects mixed paper, an additional 11.0 percent
could theoretically be collected. Alternatively, i~ additional newspaper
were not collected due to poor markets, the program could collect 3.9
percent less.
Once the maximum potential has been determined by the number and type of
materials accepted by a program, the percentage of this amount that is
actually recovered will be determined by the participation rate.
Participation rates will be greatly influenced by other aspects of program
design, such as the level of convenience and incentives. In general,
curbside recycling programs have higher participation rates than do drop-
off centers because curbside collection is more convenient, although the
number of people that "support" the two programs may be about the same. A
survey conducted in Clallam County {PSR 198g) shows almost no difference in
the number of people who said that they would bring recyclables to a drop-
off location (87 percent if it were within five miles) versus the number of
people who would participate in curbside recycling programs {88 percent}.
This is typical of survey results in many areas and, in reality, the
frequency of participation and the number of materials recycled may differ
between the two programs.
A pilot recycling project conducted in Everett, Washington, implemented
four types of collection programs in different areas of the city to compare
their results. A survey conducted prior to the start of the project showed
that people have a tendency to "over-report" their participation in
recycling programs (Porembo and Vick 1990). In this case, 80 to 90 percent
of the potential participants responded that they already recycled some
materials, but participation in the pilot project was lower than that for
all types of collection programs. Data collected by the pilot project
shows weekly curbside recycling programs to be the most successful,
resulting in 19 pounds per month per household, followed by monthly
curbside (12 pounds), then drop boxes (10 pounds) and buy-back centers {7
pounds). The relative ranking of the last two options is surprising, since
most other areas have demonstrated better results for buy-back centers
versus drop-off sites. This was attributed to the greater distance that
people had to travel to get to the buy-back center and other convenience
factors.
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Experience in other areas has shown that people generally will drive only a
few miles to a drop-off center, but this range may be extended if the droP-
off site is located where people are already traveling (i.e., a transfer
station or shopping center) or if additional incentive is provided such as
monetary reimbursement or the involvement of a charitable organization.
Assuming the same location and materials, buy-back centers may have better
results because of the monetary incentive. It may be difficult, however,
to establish as many buy-back centers as drop-off centers since the higher
overhead associated with buy-back centers (staffing, weigh scales, etc.)
requires a higher volume of materials to support it. For both buy-back and
drop-off centers, operations that donate revenues to a charity have
generally produced better results than those without this incentive.
The results of recycling programs (curbside or other) can be greatly
influenced depending on whether the program is mandatory or voluntary. The
results of a study done of recycling programs in rural areas concluded that
a program that is mandatory and enforced will have higher results than a
voluntary program or a non-enforced mandatory program (MN Project 1987}.
This study showed that mandatory and enforced recycling programs achieved
an average recycling rate of 19.5 percent. For a mandatory program without
enforcement, the recycling rate was only 2.8 percent. For voluntary
programs, the average recycling rate was 4.5 percent. Only one example of
a non-enforced mandatory program was surveyed, so the lower result for this
case may not be representative of a typical program.
The above study {MN Project 1987} also found that the most successful
residential recycling programs mimic or piggy-back on local garbage
collection systems. Collecting recyclables at curbside using vehicles and
containers similar to those used for garbage provides a convenient and
familiar service for the residents. If a recycling program employs the
same equipment or is conducted at the same time as garbage collections,
financial savings are also created.
Additional factors which affect the convenience of (and hence participation
in) curbside collection programs include the frequency of service and the
provision of special containers to households to use for participating in
curbside recycling. The additional cost of special containers or more
frequent service must be weighed against the expected increase in results.
Experience in other parts of the country has shown that recycling rates
(the actual amount of material collected, not the participation rate}
increase by about 50 percent if the frequency of service is doubled. The
increase resulting from the use of containers will range from 50 percent to
triple the results of a program that does not use containers. Actual
results from increased frequency or the use of containers varies
significantly depending on the demographics of an area, the amount of
promotion that is done, and other factors.
Market considerations must be taken into account when designing a recycling
program. These include the market price of a material, the cost of
preparing and transporting the material to market, and the capacity of the
market to absorb additional materials. They also include less certain
factors such as future market prices and expected market stability. The
first set of factors will determine the net price received by the seller
for a given material. This is an important consideration since market
3-22
revenues reduce the net cost of a recycling program. This idea is even
more critical for Clallam County, since transportation costs are relatively
high compared to many other areas. Furthermore, economies of scale will be
difficult to achieve with the small quantities of materials that can be
collected from the County's relatively small population. Materials that
are widely recognized as recyclable (e.g., aluminum cans and newspaper) may
actually represent a net cost to bring to market from Clallam County. This
may be the case even after considering avoided costs (see below), thus
diminishing the willingness or ability of a private company or governmental
agency to accept the material for recycling. The second set of factors
(future price and stability) should be taken into consideration as
indicators of future marketability and revenues.
Another consideration is the avoided costs and/or environmental savings
presented by recycling. For recycling, the avoided cost is the cost of
transporting and disposing of the material. Transportation costs vary
significantly depending on the distance between the point of waste
generation and the Port Angeles Landfill. The cost of disposal at the Port
Angeles Landfill is currently $49.50 per ton (1991). For the users of the
transfer stations, the avoided cost is $73.00 per ton (1991), which is the
fee established through the contract between Clallam County and Olympic
Disposal. For households who are receiving garbage collection services,
the avoided costs will be the disposal cost plus a portion of the
collection cost. The household will directly benefit from this avoided
cost only if volume-based collection rates are available in their area and
they can reduce their amount of garbage sufficiently to drop to a lower
service level. However, all households would indirectly benefit from the
prolonged life of the landfill that would result from waste reduction and
recycling programs.
Environmental savings are more difficult to determine than other avoided
costs. Basically, environmental savings are an estimate of the dollars
saved by investing in a program now rather than paying to clean up a
problem in the future. Although this amount could be taken as an estimate
of the cost, if any, of future cleanup efforts at Port Angeles Landfill (on
a per-ton basis), it should be noted that many of the materials to be
recycled present very little risk of pollution problems in a landfill.
Alternatively, environmental savings can be estimated as the amount of
money that a community is willing to spend on environmental protection.
Additional factors to be considered include the objective to maintain
private sector involvement where possible (see chapter 1); the State's
requirement to place a priority on waste reduction and recycling efforts
(Ch. 70.95 RCW); a State requirement that private haulers use rate
structures and billing systems that are consistent with the State's
priorities and provide minimum levels of services as established in local
comprehensive solid waste management plans (Ch. 81.77 RCW); the need for a
substantial effort in promotion to encourage good levels of participation;
and the availability of processing capacity to prepare the materials for
market (see below).
3-23
Processinq of Rec¥clable Materials
The ability and capacity to process recyclable materials collected through
any type of program is vital. Without a method to prepare the materials
for markets (and prepare them for transportation to those markets), the
materials will not be recycled. For instance, it would not be possible to
implement a recycling program that accepts commingled (mixed) materials
unless there was an available materials recovery facility (MRF) that could
separate the materials.
Environmental Waste Systems (EWS) is currently acting as a processing
center for materials that they collect on curbside collection routes. All
Metal Recycling and Olympic Disposal process their own materials. Various
other companies are involved in minor ways.
As programs in Clallam County increasingly capture recyclable materials,
additional processing capacity may be needed. Various options are possible
for providing this capacity, including but not limited to:
· A new facility for handling additional source-separated materials,
at Port Angeles Landfill, Clallam Bay Corrections Center, in Forks,
or at other sites.
· A new facility (MRF) for handling commingled recyclable materials,
at a number of possible locations (see above).
· A processing facility designed to recover recyclables from mixed
municipal solid waste, at the Port Angeles Landfill or .another
location.
· The use of existing facilities to continue to process source-
separated materials.
Interest has previously been expressed by more than one party in the
possibility of constructing a recyclables processing facility in Clallam
County. A combination recycling facility and incinerator at the Clallam
Bay Corrections Center was one of the scenarios evaluated in the Forks
Waste-to-Enerqy Feasibility Study (SCS 1988). In early 1988, staff at the
Clallam Bay Corrections Center began their own investigation of the
possibility of using low-cost inmate labor to sort solid waste to recover
recyclables. The goal was to provide both environmental and social (e.g.,
rehabilitation) benefits to society.
A number of security and transportation problems are possible with the use
of the Corrections Center. An uncontrolled waste stream (either solid
waste or source separated recyclables) entering the prison creates the
potential for smuggling contraband into the prison. In addition, solid
waste or recyclables contain materials (glass and metals) that could
potentially be used to fabricate weapons. The prison is also remote from
both population (hence waste generation) areas of the County and from
potential recyclables markets in the Seattle-Tacoma area. Thus, the cost
of transporting either solid waste to the prison or recyclables from the
prison could be expected to be high. In addition, the prison is also a
3-24
considerable distance from the Port Angeles Landfill, the final disposal
site for the non-recyclable portion of the waste stream.
The possibility of a facility at Port Angeles Landfill has been briefly
considered and may be investigated more fully in a few years. The facility
that was considered would remove recyclables from incoming garbage. A
rough estimate of the capital cost for such a facility is $3,000,000~
Another facility that has been recently proposed is a private transfer
station/recycling center in the City of Forks. The feasibility of this
facility is currently (as of early 1992) being examined by West Waste &
Recycling (the proposed name of the company).
Additional factors to consider include Clallam County's goal of involving
private industry where existing capabilities are available (see Section 1.5
of this plan) and the increased efficiency of placing a processing facility
near areas of substantial waste generation. Location of a processing
facility near Port Angeles may also be more efficient if it is possible to
transport solid waste and recyclables at the same time, since waste will be
brought to the Port Angeles Landfill for final disposal.
Financinq Methods
All of the materials that can be recycled for a profit are currently being
collected, although increases in volumes should be possible through
promotion of existing opportunities such as drop-off centers. These
materials include various types of paper, glass, metals and plastics (see
Section 3.3.1 for further details). Substantial increases in recycling
will require financial support and/or significant increases in market
prices. Financial support could be provided by cities and justified on the
basis of avoided costs for those cities who are currently taking an active
role in garbage collection and disposal (i.e., Port Angeles and Sequim).
For residents who subscribe to garbage collection services, the additional
cost for curbside recycling can be included in garbage collection fees and
then incentives provided through volume-based fees (as is currently being
done). However, these approaches do not include a substantial portion of
the County population, especially those residents who do not have garbage
collection services.
Funds for additional recycling services could be provided by user fees or
by a solid waste collection or disposal district (see Section 3.10).
Recycling and/or garbage collections could also be made mandatory, with the
additional funds derived from increased fees to residents, but this
approach may be difficult to adopt and enforce.
Public Education and Information
A list of possible public education methods is shown under waste reduction
alternatives (Section 3.2.3). Most of the same methods will work as well
for recycling (or composting) as they do for waste reduction, and these
subjects can be publicized at the same time in many cases.
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3.3.4 Recommendations
The State's goal of recycling 50 percent of the waste stream by 1995 will
be difficult to achieve in Clallam County. The higher cost of transporting
recyclables to market (from relatively distant areas such as Clallam
County) means that other areas of the State can recycle materials that are
not economically feasible for Clallam County to recycle. The largely rural
nature of Clallam County compounds this problem by making it more expensive
to collect recyclable materials. Hence, the amount of recycling that
Clallam County can achieve is lower, and will take longer, than the State's
overall goal of 50 percent.
The SWAC has targeted an eventual goal for Clallam County of 40 percent
reduction, recycling and composting. The current rate is about thirteen
percent. Achieving the 40 percent goal will take many years, and will
depend in part on the market development efforts of others. Hence, an
interim goal of 20 percent by 1996 has been targeted. The recommendations
made below and in Sections 3.2.4 (waste reduction) and 3.4.4 (composting)
should allow this goal to be met. The 40 percent goal should be re-
examined in five years, when this plan will require updating.
The recommended list of materials to be recycled in Clallam County includes
newspaper, cardboard, glass, high-grade paper, aluminum and tin cans, white
goods, and other metals. Yard waste should also be diverted from the waste
stream, but it is discussed in the next section on composting. However,
not all of these materials can be collected by all types of programs, and
some materials will require significant subsidies to recycle in substantial
quantities. Furthermore, current efforts should be continued for recycling
or diverting tires, waste oil, batteries and small quantities of hazardous
wastes.
The SWAC recommended that curbside recycling be implemented in Port Angeles
and Sequim, with drop-off centers for recyclables in the rest of the
County. Curbside recycling in Port Angeles and Sequim was implemented
during the process of developing this Plan. Additional efforts that will
be necessary to meet the County's recycling goal include:
· The possibility of re-establishing curbside collections in the
rural areas should be considered, and opportunities to establish
curbside collections in other areas, such as Reservations, should
be supported. Recent proposals and grant requests by the Quileute
Tribal Council should continue to be supported by the County.
· Existing drop-off sites should be maintained and additional sites
added so that the County residents outside of Port Angeles and
Sequim have reasonable access to a drop-off site. Given the
current sites at the transfer stations and Port Angeles Landfill,
more multi-material drop-off sites are needed in the area of Neah
Bay and Forks. The additional site at Forks is necessary because
the Lake Creek Transfer Station is convenient only for those people
who are hauling their own garbage, and to replace a recycling
center that was in Forks but was recently closed. This site could
be provided by the recently-proposed West Waste & Recycling
facility. Additional sites should also be considered for temporary
3-26
operation during the tourist season, located for convenient use by
the tourists, if these can be operated cost-effectively by private
recycling firms. Planning and coordination for all additional
sites should begin in 1992 with implementation targeted in 1993.
· Additional commercial recycling collections should be encouraged
and financially supported as necessary. Financial support will be
necessary to encourage recycling companies to collect some
materials. Financial support can be justified on the basis of
avoided disposal costs; theoretically, those who benefit most
directly from reduced disposal needs should provide the support.
It may be difficult to convince businesses and institutions to pay
for recycling programs, however, and so local government (cities or
the solid waste district) should provide financial support at least
initially. This support should be provided through recycling
collection contracts arranged by the cities. Additional recycling
programs should also be set up in all County and city offices as an
important form of support.
· A number of schools have established recycling programs with the
help of private recycling companies and cities, and an elementary
level educational program has been developed and presented. These
programs should continue and should be expanded in order to
increase recycling tonnages and to reinforce other education
materials. The school districts should take the lead on
establishing and expanding recycling programs for schools that they
administer. Other schools, such as private schools and Peninsula
College, will have to set up their own programs. The County should
consider arranging a meeting for interested persons from the
different schools to share information on needs and on functioning
programs.
· An aggressive public education program must be instituted to
encourage people to use the opportunities that are available,
whether this is curbside or drop-off recycling programs. Infor-
mation in the form of brochures or other literature, should be
mailed to every household at least twice per year. Information
should, at a minimum, include locations, hours of operation,
materials accepted, and other details associated with local
recycling opportunities. Other methods should also be employed to
increase people's awareness of recycling. The County should
arrange for this mailing, except in cities or other areas that are
already covered, at an approximate cost of $25,000 (cost of one
mailing, assumes joint effort with composting and so other half of
costs shown in Section 3.4.5.
· Public agencies should develop a process to collect and maintain
data on recycling and waste reduction efforts.
· Public agencies should further examine the need for increased
processing capacity, with greatest consideration given to the
expansion of existing private sector facilities or new facilities
in the area of Port Angeles.
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The diversion rates, as a percentage of the total County waste stream,
expected for the above activities are 2.5 percent for curbside recycling in
Port Angeles and Sequim, 4.5 percent for drop-off sites throughout the
County, and 5 percent for institutional (schools, government offices) and
commercial recycling programs, for a recycling subtotal of 12 percent. The
figure for curbside recycling is based on the assumption that the
residential waste stream for Sequim and Port Angeles represents
approximately 20 percent of the County's total waste stream.
Other waste reduction and composting activities will make up the remaining
part of the waste reduction and recycling goal.
While additional programs will probably be needed in the future, it is
difficult to predict what programs would be best, since solid waste
practices, regulations, and recycling market conditions are changing so
rapidly. The programs mentioned above will probably be sufficient until
the next round of planning is required in 1996.
3.3.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
Curbside recycling in Port Angeles and Sequim was begun in 1991.
Curbside collections in La Push has been proposed, followed by a recycling
program in the west end of Clallam County. Expansion of curbside
collections from La Push to areas outside of the reservation would be
contingent upon WUTC approval. Modifications to the Lake Creek Transfer
Station may be necessary to accommodate the storage of collected materials.
Future funding for this program is expected to come from the WDOE
Coordinated Prevention Grants, Tribal utility fees, EPA grants, and other
sources. Matching funds will be the responsibility of the local entity as
per the grant requirements.
Collection of cardboard and other materials from commercial accounts must
be expanded to increase results and meet goals. This will likely require
an increase in subsidies from the cities to the private recycling
collector. Assuming a level of subsidy up to $20 per ton (based on the
current subsidy level in Port Angeles) and the need to accomplish an
additional amount of commercial recycling up to 500 tons per year (not
including yard waste), then the additional cost would be up to $10,000 per
year.
The public education efforts for recycling programs should be combined with
efforts for composting programs (see next section). Later, both of these
education efforts can also be combined with waste reduction educational
materials, but the initial efforts for waste reduction should be dedicated
just to waste reduction activities to emphasize those activities.
With the proposed implementation of recycling and composting programs (see
the next section), the projected results are shown in Table 3.2. This
table makes a number of general assumptions to derive the results shown,
and is based on meeting the near-term goal of 20 percent.
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Table 3.2. Projected Results of Recycling and Composting Programs in Clallam
County.
ANNUAL TONNAGES
Currently, Currently° Additional Amount
MATERIAL Disposed~ Recycled~ to be Recycled°
PAPER
Newsprint 1,560 166 300
Corrugated Cardboard 4,880 1,907 300
Office and Computer Paper 1,200 45 100
Mixed Paper 4,400 47 50
PLASTICS
PET and HDPE Bottles 200 NA4 15
OTHER ORGANICS
Lawn and Garden Waste 3,600 NA 2,500
Wood Waste 1,440 NA 100
Textiles and Leather 1,160 NA NA
Rubber (Tires) 960 95 NA
METALS
Tin Cans 560 7 20
Other Ferrous/White Goods 1,880 3,099 100
Aluminum Cans 200_ 251 40
Other Non-Ferrous Metals 1205 148 25
OTHER INORGANICS
Recyclable Glass 2,240_ 90 100
Used Oil and Batteries 1,0806 220 NA
NONRECYCLABLE MATERIALS 16,920 NA NA
TOTALS 42,400 6,075 3,650
1 From Tables 2.4 and 2.5, assuming 1995 tonnage prior to additional recycling and
composting. Only those materials currently recycled or that have recycling
potential are shown.
2 1989 figures from Table 2.6, figures do not include recently-implemented
programs (such as curbside collections in Port Angeles and Sequim).
3 Based on proposed programs and goals, additional amount to be recycled in 1996.
4 Not Available/Applicable, existing activities not measured or not defined as
recycling. Material may be currently collected for recycling (or composting) in
Clallam County, but no quantity data is available. For figure shown as
additional amounts from future activities, future quantity is uncertain.
5 Other Non-Ferrous includes Other Aluminum from Table 2.5.
6 Disposed tonnage for Used Oil and Batteries includes other moderate-risk waste.
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3.4 COMPOSTING
3.4.1 Existing Conditions
Composting can be defined as the controlled biological decomposition of
yard wastes to produce a humus-like product. Applied as a soil
amendment, compost provides organic matter and nutrients, loosens tightly
packed soils, and helps retain moisture.
In this Plan, yard waste is defined to include lawn clippings, leaves,
weeds, and shrub and tree prunings. Because prunings are included in the
definition of yard waste, composting is used here in a broad sense to
include chipping of brush. Not all methods of managing yard wastes are
discussed in this section, however, as backyard composting and mulching
are considered to be a waste reduction method and so are discussed in
Section 3.2. Composting of solid waste is also not included in this
section, but is discussed in the section on solid waste disposal
alternatives (Section 3.9.3).
Brush Chippinq and Yard Waste Collection
The City of Port Angeles purchased a mobile chipper and began chipping
brush in 1990. The chips are being used for road surfaces at the landfill,
and are made available to the public for use as mulch. The chips may also
be composted or sold as a hogfuel for use in industrial boilers. Yard
waste collection was initiated in mid-1991 from residential accounts within
the City of Port Angeles. In the latter six months of 1991, 137 tons of
yard waste was collected through curbside routes in Port Angeles. Another
379 tons of yard waste was dropped off at the Port Angeles Landfill.
The yard debris that is collected in the curbside program is delivered to
the landfill and stockpiled along with the material that is delivered by
individual customers. Upon accumulation of sufficient material, a mobile
tub grinder is hired to reduce the pile and the resulting chips are
composted.
The City of Sequim also initiated yard waste collections in 1991, through a
drop-off site at 701 South Sequim Avenue. At this site, brush is chipped
and the chips given away for use as a mulch.
Compostinq
The results of a survey in Clallam County (PSR 1989) shows that 53 percent
of the residents already practice backyard composting. However, there is
still estimated to be a significant amount of yard waste in the solid waste
stream going to the landfill. As shown in Table 2.5, yard waste is
estimated to be 9.0 percent of the total waste stream in Clallam County.
Most of this amount is from the residential waste stream, which is
estimated to contain about 22.3 percent yard waste.
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3.4.2 Needs and Opportunities
Since yard waste represents a significant portion of the residential waste
stream in Clallam County, programs set up to handle this material could
create a significant reduction in the solid waste stream.
Ch. 70.95 RCW requires local governments to expand recycling and composting
efforts as a means to achieve the statewide recycling goal of 50 percent,
and set a high priority on source-separation programs for yard waste and
recyclable materials. Increased efforts in Clallam County in the area of
yard waste composting are needed to comply with these new State priorities.
In August 1990, the Washington State Department of Ecology (WDOE) released
the Yard Waste Composting Manual (WDOE 1990b), which provides additional
detail on complying with the new State policies for composting. Key issues
discussed by this document include:
· Two alternative methods to determine the design of collection
programs are described. The first method requires curbside
collection in all urban areas for at least nine months per year and
drop-off sites (one per 10,000 people or one at each solid waste
facility) in rural areas. The other method is based on an
evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of providing yard waste
collection programs.
· A market evaluation to determine the capacity of local markets to
absorb compost and other end products is required. A recommended
methodology.for conducting this evaluation is provided.
· Siting and permitting requirements are clarified.
3.4.3 Alternative Methods
General Approach
There are a number of approaches to composting of yard wastes that may be
feasible for Clallam County, including central compost sites (with separate
collection by haulers and/or drop-off by residents); brush chipping
operations (with separate collection and/or drop-off of brush); and
mandatory (through a ban on disposal) or voluntary (through public
education) approaches to waste reduction (mulching or backyard composting).
The general approach to composting depends on the goal for the amount of
yard waste to be removed from the waste stream, and on the methods
available to meet that goal. Incentives may be necessary to achieve a
substantial amount of diversion of yard wastes, and these could be
financial or legal in nature. Financial incentives include extra charges
for bags of yard waste placed out with garbage or differential monthly
rates to encourage separate handling. Legal incentives include mandatory
programs that require yard wastes to be placed in separate containers or
bags or disposal bans that exclude the material from the landfill-bound
waste stream altogether. In a rural county such as Clallam County,
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however, mandatory programs may not be very successful due to the
difficulty in monitoring and enforcement.
Other considerations for yard waste programs are similar to the factors
discussed under the design of recycling programs. These factors include:
· Conducting a composting program in a manner similar to garbage
collection provides a high level of convenience and possible cost
savings.
· The end-use of the finished compost must be considered when
designing a yard waste program.
· Avoided costs and/or environmental savings can help justify
expenditures for yard waste management alternatives.
· Environmental savings should also be taken into account when
considering new programs for yard wastes.
· The State has placed a priority on waste reduction, recycling and
composting activities.
· The State requires that private haulers use rate structures and
billing systems that are consistent with the State's priorities and
provide minimum levels of services as established in local
comprehensive solid waste management plans (Ch. 81.77 RCW).
· The possibility that odors will be generated by the composting
process at large-scale sites.
Specific alternatives for collection, processing and marketing are
discussed below.
Yard Waste Collection Methods
There are three primary methods of collecting yard waste for composting:
· Curbside collection.
· Mobile drop sites.
· Transfer station facilities.
Curbside collection is the monthly, biweekly or weekly collection of yard
waste from residents~ curbs. Businesses may or may not be included, but
are generally not included because they are not significant generators of
yard wastes.
Mobile drop sites are collection days for yard waste at advertised
locations (usually on a regular rotation and staffed) where citizens bring
their yard waste and are able to drop it off for little or no fee. The
collection equipment is usually 40-yard roll-off boxes that are hauled to a
yard waste processing facility when full.
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Transfer station facilities consist of separate areas at transfer stations
for dumping yard waste. The public is usually offered discounted fees for
dumping clean yard waste. Collection equipment varies, but 40-yard roll-
off boxes are used often. When full, containers are hauled to a yard waste
processing (composting) facility.
Curbside collection of yard waste may be most cost effective in Clallam
County if this service were added to the existing collectors~ routes. Most
if not all of the existing trucks used for garbage collection could also be
used for yard waste. There would be no additional capital costs if
existing trucks are available, but this is not likely to be the case. If
an additional truck is needed, the cost for a new rear loader is between
$50,000 - $90,000.
Curbside collection of yard wastes demands that a solution be found to the
problem of either separating bags from the yard waste or collecting
unbagged material. If bagged in plastic trash bags, yard wastes must be
emptied from the bags prior to compostin9. This can be a time-consuming
and messy process. Experience has shown that a crew can empty 150 - 200
bags per person per hour (Lein 1990), but a successful program can generate
many bags. It can be difficult to retain crew members to do this, due to
the strong odor generated by bagged grass clippings. One alternative is to
require that yard waste be placed in special, biodegradable kraft paper
bags.
Another alternative to bags is the use of cans or toters for collecting
loose yard waste and depositing it directly into a truck. Problems with
this approach include cost and the fact that the volume of yard waste may
exceed the capacity of containers during certain times of the year. Cost
may be a problem due to the need for a separate container for yard waste.
If toters are used for collection, the cost is approximately $50 per toter.
The life expectancy of a toter is 5 to 15 years.
Mobile drop sites require one or more containers (40 cubic yards in size)
and the truck to haul them. Often the truck is already available. If a
public agency were to run the mobile drop program rather than contracting
for this service, there may be a truck within the Public Works Department
or one that could be leased/rented from a private source for the once
weekly collection necessary. A 40-yard box with a lid costs between $2,500
and $3,500.
Costs for the transfer station option are similar to the costs for the
mobile sites or for garbage collection and hauling at a transfer station.
Other cost factors in the collection component are promotion and education
and administrative costs. These vary depending upon the level of service
and specific type of program undertaken. As an example, a mobile drop-off
program could involve fliers sent to all residents homes (approximate cost
is $0.30 per piece including postage at the bulk rate), notices placed in
the newspapers (approximate development cost of $500), and posters placed
in local businesses including the nurseries {approximate cost is $1.00 per
poster plus $1,000 in staff time for placing posters}.
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Yard Waste Processinq Options
The processing options for yard waste range from simple and relatively
inexpensive systems to more involved systems requiring a larger investment
in equipment. The simplest approaches yield wood chips for use as mulch
and a coarse grade of compost, while the more intensive systems would
produce a high quality soil amendment.
Passive Piles: This option consists of composting yard waste in piles, and
requires the least investment in new equipment. A front-end loader
(already available at the landfill and through private construction
companies) would be used to form the yard waste into large piles, which
would be turned occasionally to provide mixing and aeration. This process
is considered "passive" because no active aeration or other processing is
done. This option would produce a rough finished compost in 2-3 years.
This method requires less space than the windrow composting option
described below, but the increased composting time partially offsets the
initial space savings. This compost would only be appropriate for low
grade applications, such as roadside applications, residential use in
gardens or landfill cover.
Chippinq/Grindinq: The next level of processing involves chipping to
produce a rough mulch (from woody materials) or grinding yard waste as a
pre-processing step for composting. A front-end loader could still be used
to move the yard waste around, loading the chipper/grinder and removing the
processed product. The additional equipment could range from a standard
chipper costing between $20,000 and $50,000 and processing between i and 3
tons per hour, to a large tub grinder costing from $90,000 to $180,000 and
processing between 10 and 25 tons per hour. Screening can also be done to
avoid grinding material that is already sufficiently small in size. Disc
screens are typically used for this, and these screens cost between $5,000'
and $50,000 for units that can process up to 100 tons per hour.
Windrow Compostinq: The most intensive of the processing options (that are
considered feasible for Clallam County) involves composting the yard waste
in long narrow piles called windrows. The yard waste could be processed
through screening and grinding being formed into windrows, which would be
turned every week or so to provide aeration and mixing. This approach
would result in a uniform, high-quality compost within 6-12 months. More
space is required per ton of material than for the passive pile composting
due to the need for maneuvering space around the piles, but frequent
turning speeds the process and results in much quicker composting of the
material. The windrows could be formed and turned with a front-end loader,
as in the passive pile option, but a separate loader would probably have to
be dedicated to the task and would not be as effective as a specialized
windrow turner. Windrow turners of various sizes are available from
several manufacturers. The price range is between $90,000 and $200,000 for
machines processing between 1,000 and 4,000 tons per hour.
Shreddinq/Screeninq: The process of shredding and/or screening the
finished compost is an effective method of improving its quality,
regardless of whether it has been chipped, ground, or composted to some
degree. In the case of passive pile composting, some degree of screening
is essential if the final product is to be useful for a variety of
3-34
applications. In all cases, this process may allow extraction of the
highest quality product, returning unfinished or unacceptable material back
to the grinder or compost pile for further processing.
A combination shredder and rough screening machine may be purchased for
$30,000 to $40,000 and will process approximately 40-50 tons per hour.
High-quality screening equipment will cost between $70,000 and $100,000,
with the processing rate ranging from 50 to 300 tons per hour {depending on
the fineness of the mesh). If the amount of usage is expected to be low,
there may be soil screening equipment that could be borrowed or leased.
Other Processinq Options: Other composting systems that have been used for
yard wastes include in-vessel composting and the use of forced aeration.
Neither of these systems is considered practical for Clallam County because
of their cost. Not only are the capital and maintenance costs of these
systems quite high, the per-ton cost for these systems to handle Clallam
County's relatively small amount of yard waste would be substantially
greater than other approaches.
Product Marketinq Options
The success of a yard waste processing system depends on the ability to
effectively market the resulting product. While a wide variety of
potential markets exist, they vary greatly in the type and quality of
product they will accept, the distribution system required to reach them,
and the price (if any) they will pay for the product. Outlined below are
the possible grades of compost which may be produced from yard waste and an
analysis of the various potential users of these products.
Unprocessed Leaves: If leaves are separated from the general yard waste
stream, they may be marketed without processing to the agricultural
community. Farmers have achieved increased yields and greater drought
resistance by applying leaves directly to their land at a rate of 20-40
tons per acre. The addition of leaves may tie up nitrogen temporarily as
the leaves decay, but over the long term it improves soil stability,
erosion resistance, and water retention. The problem of nitrogen tie-up
could be alleviated somewhat by allowing the yard wastes to decompose on
the surface of the land {a process called "sheet composting") before being
turned into the soil, but some studies have found that little composting
occurs during this period. In addition, the current preference of WDOE
staff would be to have the yard wastes plowed or disked into the soil
immediately to avoid litter problems.
Livestock farmers have also used dry leaves as bedding for cattle, horses,
and other livestock. The leaves provide the same qualities of moisture
retention, ease of handling, and high carbon content as does the sawdust
often used for this purpose. This application would consume a fairly small
volume of leaves in Clallam County due to the small amount of livestock.
Also, it is unlikely that the farmers will pay much, if anything, for this
product, but they may be willing to haul it from the processing/collection
facility to the p~int of use. If leaves make up a large percentage of the
yard waste collected, the elimination of processing for this portion of the
yard waste stream may offset the added expense of keeping it separate from
the remainder of the yard waste.
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Wood Chips/Bark: Chipping wood and bark waste will provide a high quality
landscaping material which may be marketed in.a number of ways. This
product is a durable, attractive mulch which suppresses weeds and retains
moisture when used around all kinds of plantings and in pathways. It could
be marketed to public agencies, to wholesale nursery and landscape
contractors, or directly to county residents.
Public agencies could use the mulch around public buildings and in all
types of parks. Nurseries and landscapers use this type of mulch in many
ways, including bagging it and selling it to retail customers. Individual
residents would use the mulch around their homes and gardens. A price of
approximately $2 per cubic yard could be expected from public agencies and
wholesale customers, while up to $4 per cubic yard could be charged to
individual residents, assuming all of these would pick up the mulch at the
processing site. If the mulch were exceptionally high quality, an
investment in more sophisticated packaging and delivery might be warranted
and a higher price demanded, but the simplicity of the self-haul
distribution makes it the preferable alternative.
Mixed Yard Waste, Chipped/Ground: If it is impossible or impractical to
separate the wood and bark waste from the general yard waste stream, the
mixture may be ground and/or chipped together, producing a similar type of
mulch as described above but of lower quality and limited marketability.
The mixed mulch is not considered as attractive as a wood chip or bark
mulch, and it is not as effective in suppressing weeds {one of the main
functions of mulch). Nonetheless, the mixed waste mulch may find its own
markets throughout the County. It could be used most readily as a fill in
any number of applications, including landfill cover and reclamation of
gravel pits and eroded slopes. It is not as stable as composted yard
waste, since it is still actively breaking down, and so it may need to be
mixed with other materials to function effectively in these applications.
The markets for this type of mulch include public agencies and private
contractors working on government projects or private developments. Legal
mandates for the use of processed yard waste wherever possible on
government projects have provided a stable market for other municipal yard
waste processing facilities across the country. The low market value of
this product makes self-haul the best option for distribution to all
customers.
Composted Yard waste, Hiqh, Medium, and Low Quality: Composting of yard
waste increases its value and versatility in the marketplace. The finished
compost may be used in applications ranging from all-purpose fill to high-
grade potting medium depending on the quality of the incoming yard waste,
the effectiveness of the composting process, and the care with which the
product is prepared for the market.
Passive pile composting, if not screened when finished, will produce a low
quality product which will be useful only for fill applications, similar to
the chipped mixed yard waste described above, but generally more stable.
If this compost is screened through a rough mesh, it will produce a medium
quality compost product and leave behind large, uncomposted materials which
could be chipped up or returned to the compost pile for further
decomposition. Windrow composting and thorough screening will produce a
3-36
range of compost qualities, from very high quality compost with fine
particle sizes to lower quality material which may be distributed as is for
low-grade applications or returned to the windrows for further composting.
The medium and high quality compost produced by these methods may be
marketed to public agencies, wholesale nursery and landscape contractors,
farmers, and individual county residents. The highest quality compost
should receive a price of about $3 per cubic yard self-hauled in bulk from
the wholesale and large volume markets, while residents will pay
approximately $6 per cubic yard self-hauled or bagged in their own
containers.
Market Groups
Each of the potential market groups described above has its own demands and
characteristics with regard to quality, price, and distribution. The
general groups are outlined below.
Public Aqencies and Government Contractors: Public agencies and private
contractors working on government projects may provide some of the most
reliable and convenient markets for yard waste products. The demand for
soil products will probably vary greatly, with sudden peaks for large one-
time projects, but the overall potential volume used in this area is large.
The applications will range from high-end, contaminant-sensitive ones, such
as mulch for park plantings, to lower-end uses like land reclamation and
road fill. The possibility of avoiding the competition of the open
marketplace by using these materials internally may have some cost
advantages as well. This group may provide a solid base for the overall
marketing strategy, but probably should not be counted on as the only
market.
Landscape Contractors: In many municipal yard waste processing programs,
landscape contractors are the largest user group. Contractors working in
construction may use large quantities of relatively low-grade products as
fill, while landscapers working on maintenance of residential and
commercial properties use a great variety of soil products, including high-
quality chip and compost. There is some concern in this group over
contaminants in the compost, especially for uses with high human contact.
Thorough testing of the products for contaminants and public education to
promote the products as safe and reliable may overcome this obstacle.
Nurseries: The nursery industry consists of field and container/greenhouse
growers, both of which provide large potential markets for yard waste
products. The field growers are similar to the agricultural market group
in that they use compost as a soil amendment to improve soil structure,
increase moisture retention, and provide some plant nutrients, including
nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace minerals. The container growers
use the compost as a part of a soil mix for germinating seeds and
developing their plants. There have been many reports of exceptional
seedling development and disease suppression attributed to the unique
bacterial population of compost used in this way, but others fear the
possible non-uniformity of compost made from municipal yard waste. In
general, the nurseries are a more quality-conscious market than the
landscapers, and as a result they may need more convincing on the quality
3-37
and consistency of the product. They will also provide a market only for
the highest quality compost products.
Soil Dealers: Soil products like compost and mulch have traditionally been
distributed through soil dealers. For example, many nurseries buy potting
mixes from soil dealers instead of purchasing the constituent parts and
mixing the soil themselves. These dealers usually distributed a wide
variety of products to a range of large markets. It may be advantageous to
work through or with such dealers to market the yard waste compost. They
would be fairly demanding on quality and would not pay much for the
products, but may be a good place to establish a contract for consistent
delivery of a specified volume of processed waste.
Farmers: The Clallam County agricultural industry may be a large volume
group for the yard waste products, particularly the high-quality soil
amendments such as unprocessed leaves and fine to coarse compost. At an
application rate of 20-40 tons per acre every three or four years, a total
market of about 500 acres could consume the bulk of the anticipated yard
waste. The yard waste compost would have to compete with existing sources
of soil amendment, such as animal manure/bedding mixes, but could do so by
providing the product for little or no cost and possibly delivering the
finished compost to the larger customers. There is some concern over the
use of the compost on food crops because of possible pesticide residues or
heavy metal accumulation. The seriousness of this obstacle will be known
only after thorough testing of the compost.
County Residents: Marketing of the yard waste products to County residents
may be more effective as a public education tool than as a real volume
outlet. The opportunity to receive and use the yard waste products may
provide the incentive for some residents to participate in the collection
program. It may also raise awareness about solid waste issues in general,
leading perhaps to more backyard composting and less waste generation
overall. But it would be difficult to rely on this group as a consistent
market for large volumes of compost. Self-haul programs are the easiest
method for distributing to this group, charging a small fee, if any, for a
resident to fill her own container or truck at the processing facility.
Delivery may be considered at increased cost and perhaps with some minimum
volume. Again the issue of contamination also plays a role, with tests of
the finished product determining whether it could be distributed safely to
the general public.
3.4.4 Recommendations
The SWAC has recommended that most of the yard waste be removed from the
waste stream through backyard and centralized composting programs. This
will be necessary to meet Clallam County's overall goal for reduction,
recycling and waste reduction. Yard waste represents a relatively easy
material to handle through alternative methods, is present in significant
quantities (and so presents a significant opportunity to reduce the waste
stream), and is a resource that should not be taking up valuable landfill
space.
3-38
To achieve the goal of diverting most of the yard waste from the waste
stream, the following programs should be continued or implemented:
· Chipping of brush should be continued, and as much additional
amounts of brush and woody materials should be diverted to chipping
as the end-uses for chips can accommodate. End uses that should
continue to be developed include mulch, hog fuel, composting, road
surfaces at the landfill and other uses that may also be
identified.
· A composting site has been established at the Port Angeles Landfill
for chipped yard waste using a passive pile system. The County
Health Division has been notified. This program should be
continued and possibly expanded to include some demolition and/or
construction debris.
· The City of Port Angeles should continue and complete the
feasibility study on compost alternatives that has been initiated
in conjunction with the construction of the secondary sewage
treatment facility. Based on the results of that study, the City
can make a determination of the best composting alternative for
their particular situation.
· Drop-off sites should be established at the transfer stations.
· In addition to Port Angeles and Sequim, separate collection of yard
waste should be considered by Olympic Disposal in their respective
solid waste collection service areas. These collections should be
started in 1993 or 1994 if backyard composting and drop-off sites
are not diverting sufficient amounts of material to meet the 1995
interim composting goal of five percent. Methods should be
explored for charging the extra cost of this service just to those
who set out yard wastes. A method must also be found to separate
the yard waste from bags, or to collect the yard waste in toters or
through some other means that does not require bags.
· Continued support and additional development of the Quileute
proposal should be provided, as prioritized by the SWAC. The
Quileute Tribe has proposed to collect yard waste through curbside
collections and to compost the material at a site on the
Reservation or transfer materials (especially larger materials) to
other composting sites. Other options currently being explored
include curbside collection for residences outside of the
Reservation, and the investigation of food waste composting through
a pilot program.
· Public education should be conducted to encourage residents to
handle their yard wastes separately, either through backyard
composting, curbside collection, or depositing them at the transfer
stations.
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3.4.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
The eventual goal for yard waste composting should be about four percent of
the waste stream, or about three-quarters of the total amount of yard waste
that is currently in the waste stream disposed at Port Angeles Landfill.
To achieve this goal will take time and investments in new collection
methods. An interim goal of three percent in 1995 is targeted. Additional
diversion will also be achieved through separate programs for wood waste,
and these programs are discussed in Section 4.17.
The costs for new programs to achieve this goal include staff time for
chipping brush, expenses associated with the compost site at Port Angeles
Landfill, expenses for separate collection of yard wastes (curbside and
drop-off), and public education expenses.
The expenses for additional chipping and the compost site are expected to
be minimal. Existing equipment can be used, and so the primary expense
will be additional staff time to chip brush and turn compost piles,
assuming that unbaggin§ yard waste will not be necessary. The cost for the
additional staff, assuming a part-time person, is about $20,000 per year.
The expense for separate collection of yard wastes would vary from
approximately $3.00 per month per household in urban areas to $5.00 or more
per month per household in rural areas. These costs assume reduced service
(once per month collections) in the winter months when generation of yard
waste is low. In addition, achieving these rates may require some level of
subsidy, such as could be provided by a solid waste disposal district in
recognition of avoided disposal costs, to avoid the true cost acting as a
significant disincentive for participation. The expense for public
education would be about $25,000 (total for County) in the first year of an
aggressive campaign, and $15,000 to $20,000 in subsequent years.
For the recommended system, including staff time for chipping brush and
managing the compost site at the landfill ($20,000), separate collection
from about 7,000 urban households ($252,000), and public education
($50,000), the total cost would be approximately $322,000 per year.
Capital expenditures of about $30,000 may also be incurred by the County to
place collection containers at the transfer stations. These costs would be
incurred in 1992 or 1993.
3.5 ENERGY RECOVERY AND INCINERATION
3.5.1 Existing Conditions
Incineration is a viable method of reducing the weight and volume of waste
requiring landfill disposal. Despite public concerns about air pollutants
such as dioxins, state-of-the-art solid waste incineration systems use
sophisticated combustion controls to burn solid waste cleanly and
efficiently. Through the use of flue gas scrubbing equipment, air
emissions can be minimized. A landfill will still be required, however, to
dispose of ash as well as non-combustible or over-sized waste that cannot
be burned.
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There are currently no incinerators in Clallam County permitted for general
solid waste, although there are incinerators in operation that handle
specific waste streams such as wood waste and medical wastes. Two studies
have been done on the feasibility of waste-to-energy facilities in Clallam
County for general solid wastes, and their conclusions are presented below.
Wood Waste Incineration
Large amounts of wood waste are generated by shake, shingle, and lumber
mills, particularly in the western portions of the County. The Forks
waste-to-energy study (SCS 1988, see below) indicated that wood waste from
mills has been decreasing and is likely to continue at the current level or
slightly reduced levels for the foreseeable future. When accumulated on-
site, wood wastes pose a significant fire hazard. Hence, these wastes are
currently sold as hog fuel, burned on-site in wigwam or silo burners, or
disposed of in private landfills. Closure of these landfills and stricter
regulation of wigwam and silo burner emissions in the near future is
likely. In general, wigwam and silo burners are volume reduction/disposal
devices only, and no heat is recovered. Local use of hog fuel, by
industries such as Daishowa and ITT Rayonier, has recently been increasing.
Medical and Veterinary Incinerators
Community Hospital in Forks has an incinerator for the disposal of
biomedical wastes. The Indian Health Service at Neah Bay operates an
incinerator, available to all the tribes in Clallam County, for disposal
of medical waste. Olympic Memorial Hospital in Port Angeles discontinued
use of its incinerator in April 1990, and their medical waste is now
hauled out of Clallam County by a licensed biomedical waste hauler. The
Humane Society in Port Angeles provides the only incinerator in the
County for the disposal of dead animals. The Humane Society also
operates a freezer for holding animal carcasses for scheduled pickup by a
rendering service.
City of Forks Waste-to-Ener§y Feasibility Study
A study (SCS 1988) prepared for the City of Forks examined the feasibility
of a waste-to-energy facility for the west end of Clallam County. This
study was funded in part by the U.S. Department of Commerce~s Economic
Development Administration. The major reason for conducting the study was
the imminent closure of the nearby Lake Creek Landfill. The study,
completed in 1988, concluded that a waste-to-energy facility for general
solid wastes would not be cost-effective either for Forks or for the west
end of Clallam County. The study also concluded that a pile burner/lumber
dry kiln might be cost-effective for disposal of wood waste only.
City of Port Anqeles Waste-to-Enerqy Feasibility Study
A study prepared for the City of Port Angeles (Beck 1988a) analyzed a
variety of options for waste-to-energy facilities. It concluded that costs
would range from $63.18 per ton to $129.42 per ton (1988 dollars, levelized
costs for a period of twenty years). The least expensive option assumed
generation and sale of steam to Daishowa America, a matching grant from the
Washington Department of Ecology for 50 percent of the capital costs, and
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some form of waste flow control by the City. Flow control would be
necessary to ensure a steady supply of waste for the incinerator, but waste
would have to come from an area larger than the city's boundaries. The
study recommended that the City and County work together to develop a solid
waste management plan which would provide the framework and basis for
further exploration of a waste-to-energy facility.
3.5.2 Needs and Opportunities
While there is a need for disposal of solid wastes currently and in the
future, these needs are being met adequately by the Port Angeles Landfill.
The landfill has an estimated remaining capacity of greater than 20 years
remaining (Parametrix 1992). This remaining life could be further extended
through recycling and waste reduction programs. Incineration projects
currently meet with strong public resistance, and two recent studies in
Clallam County have concluded that the cost of incineration is considerably
higher than landfill disposal. In addition, insuring a steady supply of
waste could be a problem, especially if a substantial cost increase was
associated with the incinerator.
The feasibility of energy recovery may be better with a related activity:
the recovery of combustible gas from landfills. This idea is currently
being explored for the Port Angeles Landfill. The presence of recoverable
amounts of landfill gas presents both a need and an opportunity. There is
a need to collect and control the combustible/explosive landfill gas to
prevent it from migrating off-site and to control odors. Collection of
this gas at the landfill provides an opportunity to recover energy. This
energy may take the form of hot air, hot water, steam, or electricity.
Further study is needed to determine conditions such as the amount and
quality of available gas, potential markets, and requirements for cleaning
up and piping the gas to the users.
3.5.3 Alternative Methods
Incineration of solid waste is an effective method of volume reduction,
although the greater expense of incineration compared to landfilling limits
its~ applications. Incineration is generally considered where there are
good environmental reasons (e.g., problems at an existing landfill); a lack
of suitable land (e.g., high groundwater table prevents siting a landfill);
a market exists for energy recovered from waste combustion; or where
population densities are hi§h and land is scarce.
Alternative methods for volume reduction include recycling, composting, and
waste reduction. At the present time, there appear to be no factors which
would strongly favor incineration over these other volume reduction
methods.
An alternative method for landfill gas control is to collect and flare it
without attempting to recovery its energy content.
3.5.4 Recommendations
In the near term, incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) is not viewed
as a critical part of solid waste management in Clallam County. However,
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should one or more of the following conditions occur, incineration should
be re-evaluated for economic and technical feasibility:
· Port Angeles Landfill nears capacity or encounters serious
environmental problems that may require it to close.
· For waste generated in the western part of the County,
transportation costs increase to the point where hauling to the
Port Angeles Landfill is not economical.
· The cost of energy increases to a point where energy recovered from
solid waste {hot water, steam, electricity} becomes economically
attractive.
· Total MSW generation increases, due to population or industrial
growth, to a point where economies of scale could make incineration
viable.
Similarly, energy recovery from landfill gas should be evaluated if energy
and/or oil prices rise substantially.
3.5.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
It is premature to develop an implementation schedule for incineration
and/or energy recovery at the present time. However, incineration and
energy recovery should be reconsidered during the next Plan update, or
sooner if the conditions described above occur.
3.6 SOLID WASTE COLLECTION
3.6.1 Existing Conditions
Solid waste collection is provided on a mandatory basis by the Cities of
Port Angeles and Sequim for their respective jurisdictions. Automated
equipment is used by Port Angeles and Sequim and has been found to be
cost effective. Gary's Disposal provides solid waste collection services
in the community of Neah Bay and for the areas of the Olympic National
Park that are within Clallam County. Olympic Disposal provides service
on an optional basis for the City of Forks and the remainder of the
County. Olympic Disposal has the franchise and is certificated by the
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission to collect refuse in
the unincorporated areas of Clallam County.
In both the 1981 and 1984 draft plans, mandatory collection was rejected
as being too expensive for the sparsely populated unincorporated areas of
the County.
Each of the collection operations are discussed below.
City of Port Angeles
Refuse collection is mandatory for the residents of Port Angeles. The
Solid Waste Utility, through the Department of Public Works, provides the
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service to residential customers on a weekly basis. Commercial customers
receive collection service one to six times weekly. Olympic Disposal
provides and collects drop box and compactor units within the City.
Before placing these units in the City, Olympic Disposal must get
permission from the Solid Waste Utility.
Collection rates for the City of Port Angeles are shown in Table 3.3.
The population density of Port Angeles is 1,884 people per square mile
(1990 data).
In July 1984, the Port Angeles City Council made the decision to
implement an automated collection service city-wide. The program became
fully operational in 1985.
City of Sequim
The City of Sequim Public Works Department provides mandatory collection
services within its incorporated limits. Solid waste is collected weekly
from residential customers, who are billed once every two months along
with water and sewer charges. Commercial customers are provided with
collection services one to three times a week and are billed monthly.
Rates charged are shown in Table 3.3. The population density of Sequim
is 1,246 people per square mile (1990 data).
Equipment for the City of Sequim includes three automated collection
vehicles called the Rapid Rail System. The trucks are side loaders that
use 90-§allon and 300-gallon standard containers for pickup for most
residential and commercial accounts. One of the trucks is also used to
collect cardboard from commercial accounts. The truck used for daily
waste collection service usually makes three trips a day to the Port
Angeles Landfill, a 40-mile round trip.
Olympic Disposal
Olympic Disposal is certificated by the Washington Utilities and
Transportation Commission (WUTC) to collect refuse in unincorporated
areas of Clallam County. The company operates under Certificate G-28.
Their headquarters are located northwest of Sequim, at 901A Woodcock
Road, Sequim, Washington, 98382 (telephone number 206-683-3301). Olympic
Disposal has a fleet of trucks with various capacities and capabilities.
The fleet includes packer trucks, trucks that can handle one-, two- and
three-cubic yard containers, and tilt frame trucks for hauling 30 and 40
cubic yard drop boxes.
Olympic Disposal has contracts to provide refuse collection services for
Clallam County Parks, Sequim Bay State Park, and the Coast Guard Station
on the Makah Indian Reservation. The WUTC franchise grants Olympic
Disposal the authority to provide waste collection services to residents
and businesses (at their request) within the City of Forks and
unincorporated areas of the County. Olympic Disposal has a contract to
operate the three County transfer stations. Waste from all of these
sources is hauled to the Port Angeles Landfill. Olympic Disposal also
collects refuse in Jefferson County, but this refuse is not brought into
Clallam County.
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Table 3.3. Collection and Disposal Fees.
Port Angeles Landfill
Tipping fee = $49.50 per ton
Minimum charge : $2.00 per load
Additional fee for uncovered loads : $5.00
Asbestos disposal : $125.00 per ton
Blue Mountain, Clallam Bay and Lake Creek Transfer Stations
$2.00 per 30 gallon can
$12.00 per cubic yard of loose waste
$24.00 per cubic yard of compacted waste
$73.00 per ton
Tires; Car - $1.50 each
Truck - $2.00 each
Off Road - $5.00 each
Appliances - $5.00 each
City of Port Angeles Collection
Single dwellings
$12.75 per month for weekly pick-up
Commercial and multiple dwellings (with City-owned containers)
$44.25 per month for weekly pick-up of 300 gallon container
City of Sequim Collection
Residential
$12.50 per month for weekly pick-up of 90-gallon container
Commercial and multiple dwellings
$45.00 per month for weekly pick-up of 300-gallon container
Shared use of a 300-gallon container is charged on a pro rata basis
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Table 3.3, continued
Olympic Disposal Collection
Residential
$12.30 per month for weekly pick-up of 1 can per week
$17.40 per month for weekly pick-up of 2 cans per week
Commercial
$47.98 per month for weekly pick-up of 1 cubic yard container
$68.89 per month for weekly pick-up of 1.5 cubic yard container
$98.13 per month for weekly pick-up of 2 cubic yard container
$119.00 per month for monthly pick-up of 30 cu. yard drop boxa
$130.00 per month for monthly pick-up of 40 cu. yard drop boxa
a Additional pickups are $50.00 per container.
Garl¥~S Disposal - Collection for Makah Indian Reservation
Residential1
$9.00 per month 1 can
$12.00 per month 2 cans
Commercial2
$1.25 per collection 1 can
$5.50 per collection 1 cubic yard container
1 Collection is twice a week and collection fees are paid by the Tribal
Council
2 Collection as needed, generally three times a week
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Refuse collection rates effective at this time for Olympic Disposal are
shown in Table 3.3. The population density for the unincorporated areas
of Clallam County, including Forks, is 19.3 people per square mile (1990
data).
Gary's Disposal
Gary's Disposal (Box 8, Neah Bay, Washington, 98357) currently holds the
contract and WUTC certificate (G-226) to provide collection services in
those areas of the Olympic National Park that lie within Clallam County.
Gary's Disposal also provides collection service within the community of
Neah Bay and other parts of the Makah Indian Reservation, except the
Coast Guard Station.
Refuse collection rates effective in 1990 are shown in Table 3.3.
The Makah Indian Reservation
Gary's Disposal provides refuse collection service by contract for Tribal
members and institutions. Residential service is provided twice-weekly
with a 13-cubic yard rear-loading truck. Residential collection for both
tribal and non-tribal members is paid by the Tribal Council. Businesses
are billed directly by Gary's Disposal and service is provided as needed
(generally three times per week). The fees for collection service are
shown in Table 3.3. Refuse is currently hauled to the Neah Bay Landfill.
The Makah Indian Tribal Council prepared a solid waste management plan
for the reservation in 1983 (PSR 1983). This plan recommended closure of
the existing landfill and development of a transfer station for the
transfer of refuse to the County or City of Port Angeles disposal
facilities. The Tribe's waste stream must be considered in projecting
future waste handling needs for the County. In addition, formal
agreements between the Makah Indians and the disposal operators should be
made for the hauling of this waste to other disposal sites.
The Quileute Indian Reservation
The Quileute Tribal Council provides garbage collection services for the
residents of the Quileute Indian Reservation through the La Push
Utilities Department. The garbage is brought to the Lake Creek Transfer
Station. The Tribe is interested in improving their collection system to
include curbside collection of source-separated recyclable and
compostable materials. Once this program has been implemented and the
projected operational costs have been confirmed, they intend to offer
these services to homes and businesses in surrounding areas. Most of the
collected materials would be stored at the Lake Creek Transfer Station
and transferred to existing processing facilities, but grass clippings
and leaves may be composted at a site to be established on the Quileute
Reservation. The successful implementation of these programs will depend
on coordination through the SWAC.
Other Indian Reservations: The remaining three Indian reservations
include the Ozette Indian Reservations (located on the Pacific Coast
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south of Neah Bay), the Lower Elwha Indi-an Reservation (located on the
Strait of Juan de Fuca west of Port Angeles), and the Jamestown-Klallam
Reservation (located along the south end of Sequim Bay). Solid waste
collection and disposal services for these reservations are provided as
part of the regular solid waste management system in Clallam County.
State Requlation
The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) supervises
and regulates garbage and refuse collection companies. Their authority
(Ch. 81.77 RCW and Ch. 480-70 WAC) is limited to private collection
companies and does not extend to municipal collection operated by a city
or town or by contractors to a city or town. WUTC may require reports,
fix rates and regulate service areas and safety practices. A certificate
of public necessity is required before operating a garbage or refuse
collection business.
Cities and towns have several options for managing solid waste collection
under State laws. None of these options eliminate the right of a waste
generator to haul its own waste. These options are:
· If a city does not wish to be involved in the regulation of
garbage collection within its boundaries~ collection would be
provided on a voluntary basis by franchised collectors certified
by the WUTC.
· The City may require the franchised collector to secure a license
from the City.
· The City may award contracts for collection for all or part of
the City.
· The City may provide its own municipal collection system.
The WUTC would not have jurisdiction over the last two options (RCW
81.77.020).
Motor vehicle noise performance standards, which can be applied to trucks
transporting solid waste, are contained in Ch. 173-62 WAC.
Local Requlation
The local agency with authority over solid waste collection in the
unincorporated parts of the County is the Environmental Health Division
of the Clallam County Department of Community Development.
The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act requires that federal
facilities comply with substantive and procedural laws and regulations of
State and local governments. Thus, military installations and federal
lands are under local jurisdiction for solid waste management.
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3.6.2 Needs and Opportunities
The current system appears to be adequate to handle current and future
needs for collection of solid waste within Clallam County, with the
possible exception of a litter problem caused by people who haul their
garbage to the Lake Creek Transfer Station without properly securing their
loads. This litter falls along the roadside in a highly visible area
frequented by tourists.
Future collection needs have been estimated. As shown in Table 2.4, future
quantities of solid waste are expected to increase by about 400 tons per
year. This amount of change can be handled by the existing collection
system.
3.6.3 Alternative Methods
Alternative methods to meet collection needs for Clallam County consist of
mandatory versus voluntary services. Currently about 35 percent of the
County's population is in areas where collection service is mandatory, and
the remainder are in areas where it is voluntary. Where participation in
collection programs is voluntary, there is a need for transfer facilities
that are open to the public (see Section 3.7, below).
Self-hauling of garbage to the Lake Creek Transfer Station is causing
litter problems along the main road between the City of Forks and the
transfer station. This problem could be addressed through a variety of
methods, including mandatory collection within the Forks city limits; a
solid waste collection district that imposes mandatory collection on the
entire County; strict enforcement of anti-litter laws; or strict
enforcement of a regulation that loads be properly secured by covering them
with a tarp or other means. For the first option, the City of Forks could
adopt mandatory collection as permitted by State law and this would address
the litter problem by reducing the number of people who self-haul their
waste in private vehicles to the transfer station. The third option,
enforcement of anti-litter laws, could be based the state's requirement for
secured loads (WAC 173-304-200, which has been adopted by reference in
Section 9.2 of the County's solid waste handling regulations) or the
County's littering ordinance (Chapter 19.20 of the County Code).
Mandatory collection programs throughout the rest of Clallam County would
provide some benefits, but not without some costs. Benefits include a
reduction in illegal dumping; a reduced need for enforcement of illegal
dumping, littering and other laws; and greater ability to provide curbside
recycling programs (assuming a combination of recycling services with
garbage removal). Mandatory collection, however, can act as a disincentive
for those who are avidly trying to reduce wastes (unless volume-based rates
are used). Even with volume-based rates, costs may be a problem. In areas
with very low population densities, such as exists in large areas of
Clallam County, garbage collection services can be expensive to provide.
Mandatory collection in unincorporated areas could be provided through a
solid waste collection district. State law (Ch. 36.58A RCW) enables a
county to establish such a district. This idea is discussed more fully
under administrative alternatives (Section 3.10.3 of this Plan).
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3.6.4 Recommendations
At this time, no change in collection methods is recommended. However, as
Clallam County becomes more populated, and especially if growth is con-
centrated in certain communities, expanding the areas covered by mandatory
collection may be warranted. A solid waste collection and/or disposal
district should be investigated (see Section 3.10).
3.6.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
Changes in collection methods and systems should be reassessed in all
future revisions of this Plan.
3.7 TRANSFER
3.7.1 Existing Conditions
Three County-owned transfer stations are currently operating in the
County. These are the Blue Mountain, Clallam Bay, and the Lake Creek
Transfer Station (see Figure 2.2). These stations are operated by
Olympic Disposal under contract with Clallam County. The term of the
contract is three years, beginning on January 1, 1990. The prices
currently charged (as of 1991) are shown in Table 3.3. The charges at
the transfer stations are set so as to cover landfilling charges
($49.50/ton), transportation and other operating expenses, and to provide
for a small profit margin. One of the operating expenses is a lease
payment to Clallam County, which is placed into a Solid Waste Fund and
used to finance current solid waste expenditures. This lease payment
represents about $7/ton handled. Recycling containers at the transfer
stations for aluminum, glass and newspaper are required by contract. The
waste from all three transfer stations is hauled to Port Angeles
Landfill.
Blue Mountain Transfer Station
This facility replaced the Blue Mountain Dump in 1974. It is located
between Port Angeles and Sequim on Blue Mountain Road approximately 1.5
miles south of Highway 101. The current hours of operation are
Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and the
station is staffed by an attendant during operating hours.
The station is a direct discharge type employing two 30-40 cubic yard
containers and is covered for wind and rain protection. The containers
are supplied by Olympic Disposal. Currently, this site receives about
1,500 tons of solid waste per year (1990 figure).
Clallam Bay Transfer Station
The Clallam Bay Transfer Station was constructed in 1977 to provide
disposal services to residents of the Sekiu/Clallam Bay area when the
Clallam Bay Dump was closed. The facility is located in Clallam Bay on
Frontier Street. The current hours of operation are Wednesdays,
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Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The site is staffed
during open hours.
The station consists of two self-contained 20-yard packing containers.
The containers are owned by the County and are rented to Olympic Disposal
under their contract. This site receives approximately 60 tons of solid
waste per year (1990 figure).
The Clallam Bay transfer station was previously a coin-operated facility
with a history of problems. Indiscriminate dumping, vandalism and
equipment malfunctions frequently occurred, leading to a change in
operations to a staffed facility.
Lake Creek Transfer Station
The Lake Creek Transfer Station was opened in 1989 when the Lake Creek
Landfill was closed. The transfer station is at the site of the closed
landfill, and serves the west end of Clallam County. The current hours
of operation are Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to
6:00 p.m. The site is staffed during open hours. Currently, this site
receives approximately 3,200 tons of solid waste per year (1990 figure).
This station uses two 40-foot, 110 cubic yard transfer trailers. The
County had been renting these trailers until July 1990, but Olympic
Disposal has assumed the rental agreement under their current contract with
the County. Additional structures and utilities at this site include an
attendant's trailer, water service and electrical service.
3.7.2 Needs and Opportunities
With the addition of the Lake Creek site, transfer stations are now located
so that the majority of residents and businesses in Clallam County have
reasonably good access to a disposal or transfer site. However, there are
two possible future needs for improved transfer capabilities; for waste
from the Makah Indian Reservation, and for large volumes of recyclable and
compostable materials from the Quileute Reservation.
The Makah Indian Reservation is currently using the Neah Bay Landfill. The
possible closure of this landfill has been discussed for many years. If
the Neah Bay Landfill is closed, waste from the Makah Indian Reservation
may be hauled to the Port Angeles Landfill. Although this could be
accomplished through direct hauling in packer-type collection trucks, it
would be more efficient to transfer the waste to larger containers or
trailers. Transfer could occur at a new transfer station or at an existing
site. The closest existing site is the Clallam Bay Transfer Station, which
is about 21 miles from the Reservation.
The volume handled at the Clallam Bay Transfer Station would increase
substantially if waste from the Makah Indian Reservation were brought
there, from the current 60 tons per year to about 1,000 tons per year.
Improvements would likely be necessary to handle the additional load.
Alternatively, construction of a new transfer station may be the best
method to provide efficient and economical garbage collection service. In
either case, a significant issue is the increase in costs that would be
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incurred for disposal. These issues are currently being examined by the
Makah Tribal Council.
Other issues which must be addressed to implement a change in disposal
options for the Makah Indian Reservation include the possible need to go
through a siting process for a new transfer station, if one is built for
their use, and the need to negotiate for disposal capacity at Port Angeles
Landfill. The additional load on Port Angeles Landfill would not be that
great, only about 900 tons or two percent of the current quantity accepted
by the landfill, but the City of Port An§eles~ approval should be secured
before proceeding with plans to transfer waste there.
For the Quileute Reservation, additional capacity may be needed at the Lake
Creek Transfer Station or a nearby site to accommodate large loads of
recyclable and compostable materials. These materials would be collected
from the Reservation and possibly other areas by the Quileute Tribe.
Additional transfer stations should not be needed in the future unless
there are major shifts in population centers or new areas of population
growth occur. Improvements at the existing transfer stations may be needed
in the future to meet changing needs (for new approaches to yard waste or
other wastes) or due to changes in the Minimum Functional Standards.
The only future need identified at this time is the need to arrange for a
new contract operation of the three existing transfer stations when the
current contract expires in December 1992.
3.7.3 Alternative Methods
An alternative to public construction and ownership of transfer stations is
private ownership. Similarly, operation of transfer station could be
accomplished by either the public or private sector, even if the facility
is publicly owned.
There has recently been an interest expressed in establishing a privately
owned and operated transfer station and recycling facility in the City of
Forks. This proposal, by West Waste and Recycling, was only at the stage
of a feasibility study as of early 1992. Although this facility would
provide recycling opportunities that are needed in that area, it would also
divert some portion of the waste stream that is currently being handled by
the Lake Creek Transfer Station and lead to lower economies of scale at
that facility. The service area and operations of the proposed West Waste
facility should be examined carefully to avoid redundancy in transfer
capabilities.
The Quileute Tribal Council has proposed using a County-approved transfer
station as a transfer site for truckload quantities of recyclable and
compostable materials collected from the Reservation and possibly also from
nearby areas. This approach would require constructing bunkers or
purchasing drop boxes, purchasing additional equipment to move the
accumulated materials, and possibly other capital improvements such as
paving. Additional staffing at the transfer station may also be necessary.
The estimated cost of this approach is $85,000 for one-time capital
expenses, plus slight additional operating expenses.
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Alternatives to the use of the transfer station for materials collected by
the Quileute Tribe include:
· Direct delivery of collected materials to processing facilities
and markets in the Port Angeles area. This approach would not be
very efficient, however, for large quantities of materials, nor
would it be an acceptable approach if it caused an excessive
reduction in time available for collection routes.
· Consolidation of loads with other large generators in the western
part of the County. For instance, Clallam Bay Prison is
currently delivering recyclable materials to EWS in Port Angeles.
· Consolidation at a site other than the Lake Creek Transfer
Station. If there were another staffed site available, it would
also be able to serve as a public drop-off site and would further
expand the opportunities for people to recycle.
3.7.4 Recommendations
The Clallam County SWAC and other governmental agencies should continue to
work together to develop plans and programs, while also continuing to
explore viable alternatives. The County should also continue to study the
possibility of placing additional containers at all transfer sites to
collect source-separated yard wastes (see discussion in Section 3.4.3) and
to collect recyclable materials in addition to those already collected
there.
3.7.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
Implementation details are not applicable at this time.
3.8 IMPORT/EXPORT
3.8.1 Existing Conditions
Waste Import
Very little waste is imported into Clallam County. From October 1989 to
September 1990, the Port Angeles Landfill received only 22 tons of waste
from outside the County. This represents only 0.06 percent of the total
amount handled by the landfill. This waste was from a few homes in
western Jefferson County, which was brought to the Lake Creek Transfer
Station in recognition of the impracticality of transporting it a much
farther distance to the Jefferson County landfill.
In May 1992, the City of Port Angeles reaffirmed their policy of not
accepting substantial quantities of out-of-county waste at the Port
Angeles Landfill.
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Waste Export
Exporting solid wastes to disposal sites out of the County is not
currently being practiced, except for small quantities of special wastes.
Special wastes that are (or have been recently) exported from Clallam
County include contaminated soil, hazardous waste, biomedical waste, and
sewage sludge. The current system of transfer stations and use of Port
Angeles Landfill has negated the need for this approach for almost all
solid waste.
The major highways in Clallam County are U.S. Route 101 which connects
Sequim, Port Angeles and Forks, and State Route 112 which connects Port
Angeles and Neah Bay. Most of the County's other roads are connected to
these highways. These highways are susceptible to damage from heavy
loads during spring thaws. If export were practiced in the ~uture,
consolidation of loads in the spring may have to take place outside of
the County or at a point where further transportation would be via other
means than highway transportation, such as by rail or barge.
Vehicle sizes and weights are limited by the State Motor Vehicle Code
(Ch. 466-38 WAC). The Clallam County Highway Department has set load
restrictions within these State requirements and emergency load
restrictions that apply during spring thaw. These emergency load
restrictions were established to minimize road damage when the spring
thaw softens roadway foundations. Under these conditions all heavy
traffic, including solid waste collection vehicles, is lightened, re-
routed or halted.
3.8.2 Needs and Opportunities
Waste import or export would merit further consideration if either
regulations and/or economics cause the Port Angeles Landfill to become
unavailable or to become significantly more expensive than other disposal
options. In the case of economics, waste export may provide a less
expensive option, or waste import could be done to lower the unit cost
(the per ton cost) of handling waste at the landfill.
Waste Import
For economic or other reasons, waste imports could be initiated and would
increase the economies of scale associated with operating the landfill.
This would reduce the per-ton cost of waste disposal at the landfill,
thus resulting in a financial benefit to the residents of Clallam County.
However, this benefit must be balanced with the need to preserve landfill
space, especially in Clallam County where siting any additional solid
waste landfills is probably impossible.
Other positive impacts potentially associated with waste import include:
expanded tax base; expanded employment opportunities; and attraction of
secondary development.
While regionalization may provide economic and environmental benefits,
individual jurisdictions and communities may experience various costs or
negative impacts. Possible negative impacts that a jurisdiction might
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experience hosting a regional facility include: decreased property values;
additional traffic; additional regulatory burden; impacts on local
aesthetic qualities; local quality of life impacts {noise and litter}; and
negative public perception which reduces business development and tourism.
Waste Export
A direct result of regulations requiring environmentally sound design,
operation and closure of solid waste landfills was to substantially
increase the cost of disposal for most communities. Many counties also
found it very difficult to site a new landfill due to the regulations and
public opposition. As a result, private companies have responded by
developing large landfills capable of handling wastes from several
counties.
The large regional facilities have been sited in areas that reduce
operating expenses due to low precipitation, favorable soils and
hydrogeological conditions, and other factors. The use of these facilities
by large communities {Seattle, Snohomish County and Portland, Oregon), has
further reduced the disposal cost at regional disposal facilities by
creating significant economies of scale. Although transportation costs to
send wastes to these facilities from Clallam County would be very high, the
low disposal cost may make this option cost-competitive. The use of
regional facilities would also be desirable if the Port Angeles Landfill
were closed.
For the west end of the County, waste currently has to be transported a
significant distance to Port Angeles Landfill, and it is possible that
within a few years the economics of transporting this waste south to a
site outside of the County will become comparable to the cost of bringing
it to Port Angeles.
For the east end of Clallam County, there is little likelihood of needing
to export solid waste in the near future unless a problem should develop
with the Port Angeles Landfill. The Port Angeles Landfill is projected
to have 20 years or more of capacity remaining. However, current or
future regulations may make it costly or impossible to continue
operations at the landfill. An example of this is the potential for the
landfill to be closed due to its proximity to the nearby airport.
If the Port Angeles Landfill was required to close for some reason,
finding a new site for a landfill in Clallam County would be nearly
impossible due to the limited land space that has acceptable slope and
other characteristics. The high amount of rainfall and prevalence of
surface water bodies (especially rivers and creeks) further excludes any
possible site on the west side of the county. The east side is dryer,
but also more populated. The land on the east side is extremely valuable
for housing and related activities. Proximity to residential or other
sensitive areas would likely prevent the siting of a new landfill on the
east side, even if a parcel of sufficient size for a landfill could be
found.
Additional positive impacts associated with export include: MSW disposal as
a variable cost, thus making it easier to see savings with reduction and
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recycling~ cost savings associated with reduced regulatory burden; reduced
long-term liability; extended life of existing local facilities; and lower
costs as a result of economies of scale.
Possible negative impacts associated with exporting to a regional facility
include: monopolization of solid waste services; vulnerabilities associated
with high import fees instituted by host communities, transportation
disruptions, or a natural calamity at the site; and lack of control over
regional facility operations. Service disruptions can occur if any element
of the export system becomes inoperable. A service disruption for the
disposal of solid waste can become a catastrophic event in a short period
of time and can result in a public health emergency.
Regional solid waste facilities can provide significant environmental
benefits if they are designed and operated for maximum environmental
protection. However, the jurisdiction using a large regional facility, in
combination with other jurisdictions and private companies, may be liable
for future environmental damage under the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA). Few mechanisms exist to
provide control over regional facility operations.
Should Clallam County or its cities desire to export waste to a regional
facility, it may have the effect of significantly reducing revenues needed
to support County solid waste facilities, reduce bonding capacity, or the
ability to fund a closure reserve.
Jefferson County is currently examining the possibility of waste export
to replace their in-county landfill. If they adopt this disposal method
and if Clallam County decides to pursue waste export in the future, there
may an opportunity for a joint venture that would provide economies of
scale to both parties.
3.8.3 Alternative Methods
Waste Import
Two general alternatives for waste import exist for Clallam County: a
continuation of Port Angeles~ current policy of no waste imports, or a
change in that policy to accept out-of-county waste. The latter option
may merit consideration if the Port Angeles Landfill is forced into early
closure (before all capacity is consumed) by its proximity to the airport
or other problems.
If the Port Angeles is forced to close before reaching full capacity,
there are a number of possible options for making use of the excess
available capacity. Potential options for the excess capacity include:
· The Port Angeles Landfill could become a temporary regional
facility by accepting waste from neighboring counties. This
approach could be taken as part of a regional solution or as the
first step in forming a regional body that addresses other
programs (such as recycling or waste export).
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· The excess capacity could be sold to a private hauling company,
to act temporarily as the destination for waste exported from
other counties or for other wastes. This approach is not likely
to be feasible due to the cost of establishing new transfer
facilities and the extent of local impacts caused by such an
increase in truck traffic.
· The excess capacity could be provided to Daishowa America or
other local generators of wood or special wastes, thus extending
the life of the Lawson Landfill or other disposal sites currently
used for these materials. This option would probably require
that the capacity be provided at a discounted rate to these
generators so that it is comparable to the cost of using their
own landfills.
· The excess capacity could be used to provide a more secure
disposal site for wastes currently deposited in old landfills,
although the cost of moving waste from one landfill to another
would be prohibitive without a grant or other subsidy from WDOE,
EPA or others.
· The landfill could provide backup capabilities for waste export
systems used by Clallam County and/or neighboring counties, by
preserving the excess capacity for use during times of export
service disruptions.
If the Port Angeles Landfill is forced to close early, considerations
should be given to taking full advantage of capital improvements that
have been made at the landfill and to ensuring that sufficient funds have
been collected for closure and post-closure activities. A waste import
system, even on a temporary basis, may help ensure that full use and
proper closure of the landfill is accomplished.
Waste Export
As discussed above, waste export may become desirable for regulatory or
economic reasons. Should Clallam County wish to examine this option more
closely, there are a number of combinations of transportation systems and
disposal sites that would be Rossible.
Transportation Methods: Possible transportation methods include shipment
by truck, barge, or rail. The Lake Creek Transfer Station is currently
set up for transfer trailers that could be used for shipments by truck,
although a different type of container may be needed if waste were to be
placed on a barge or train. Barge shipments would require access to
improved port facilities. For rail shipments, the nearest railheads are
in Shelton and Hoquiam. A waste export system may actually employ two or
more transportation methods, generally by loading waste into large
containers that can be placed on barges, trains or trucks.
Truck Transport: The transport of solid waste by truck typically involves
the use of tractor trailers hauling compacted solid waste in sealed
containers. Truck transport is most cost-effective for distances less than
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100 miles, although in the case of Clallam County other considerations,
such as the availability of existing facilities and roadways, may extend
this distance. Potential impacts associated with truck transport include:
wear and tear on roadways and bridges; increased truck traffic on haul
routes; odors; and accidents causing a spill of the contents.
Rail Transport: Beyond a distance of 100 miles, rail transport begins to
provide significant economies of scale. Rail transport requires
significant handling of the waste, such as loading waste into special
containers which are emptied at the landfill before shipping the empty
containers back to the waste generator. Rail transport may or may not
employ truck transport at either end of the trip. Potential impacts
associated with the transport of solid waste by rail include: derailment
and release of contents; noise and odor; and congestion created at road
crossings.
Barqe Transport: A single barge may hold as many as 42 sealed containers,
resulting in a total shipment of 1,200 tons of solid waste. Barge
transport requires the use of a loading and unloading dock, as well as the
need for truck transport at either end of the trip. Transportation backup
systems must be available during periodic maintenance of river locks.
Potential impacts associated with barge transport include: mishaps causing
a release of waste from the containers into surface water bodies; and
aesthetic impacts such as odor and noise.
Reqional Sites: Regional disposal sites are (or will be) located in
Klickitat County, Gilliam County, or Adams County. In developing and
siting these landfills, private companies sought out sites which are
isolated from urban development and located in areas which inherently
provide for environmental protection {i.e., low precipitation and other
factors}. The major regional landfills developed to serve the Pacific
Northwest are described below.
Columbia Ridqe Landfill and Recyclinq Center: Located in Gilliam County,
Oregon, this landfill is owned and operated by Oregon Waste Systems, a
division of Waste Management Inc. This facility is located on 2,000 acres
of former rangeland and receives an average of 9 inches of precipitation
each year. The landfill has an estimated capacity of 60 million tons, with
additional acreage available for expansions. The landfill currently
receives solid waste from Portland, Seattle, and Kennewick and Prosser in
Benton County. The facility is accessible by rail, barge, and truck. The
tipping fee is $25.00 per ton.
Finley Buttes Landfill: Located 13 miles southeast of Boardman in Morrow
County, Oregon, this landfill is owned and operated by the Finley Buttes
Landfill Company, a subsidiary of Tidewater Barge Line's. This facility is
located on 1,200 acres of range land and receives about 9 inches of
rainfall a year. The landfill has an estimated capacity of 40 million
tons. Currently, the landfill receives waste from Clark and Morrow
Counties. The facility is accessible by rail, barge and truck. The
tipping fee is $24.00 per ton at the landfill.
Roosevelt Reqional Landfill: Located in Klickitat County, about 5 miles
northeast of Roosevelt, Washington, this landfill is owned and operated by
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the Rabanco Regional Landfill Company. This facility is on 2,005 acres, of
which 380 acres will be developed into an active solid waste landfill, and
another 240 acres are proposed for a separate construction and wood waste
landfill. The facility is located in an arid region receiving about 10
inches of rain a year, and is accessible by rail, barge and truck.
Snohomish County recently awarded Rabanco of Seattle the contract to haul
and dispose of 375,000 tons of MSW per year for $37.50 per ton (includes
transportation costs). Rabanco has provided Daishowa America with an
unsolicited bid of $50.00 per ton to take waste from their Port Angeles
plant.
Proposed Adams County, Washinqton Landfill: Washington Waste Systems, a
division of Waste Management Inc., has been conducting a search for
suitable landfill sites in Adams County, Washington, and has identified two
potential sites. No design information is available, but the site is
expected to have a capacity of 60 million tons. The facility, if
permitted, is expected to open sometime during 1994 to 1996.
3.8.4 Recommendations
Waste Import
Waste import should be considered if the Port Angeles Landfill is
expected to be closed prematurely, unless that closure is the result of
an environmental problem associated with the landfill. For instance, if
the landfill is forced to close because it is discovered to be causing a
serious ground water contamination problem, waste import would probably
not be a viable option.
Waste Export
Export of solid waste is not economically feasible at this time, and the
current system of transfer stations with disposal at the Port Angeles
Landfill is adequate for Clallam County's needs. For the west end of the
County, however, it is possible that within a few years the economics of
transporting waste south to a site outside of the County will become
comparable to the cost of bringing it to Port Angeles. A review of waste
export options at this time does not reveal any that can compete cost-
effectively with the Port Angeles Landfill, but this option should be re-
visited every few years.
The possibility of exporting solid waste for the entire County should be
reassessed in all future revisions of this Plan to address factors which
may have changed. In addition, an earlier assessment might be necessary
due to conditions such as:
· The Port Angeles Landfill loses capacity or encounters serious
environmental problems that require it to close earlier than
projected.
· Transportation of waste from the western part of the County to the
Port Angeles Landfill becomes excessively costly.
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· Waste generated on the western side increases, due to population or
industrial growth, to a point where economies of scale could make
export to a site outside of the County more cost-effective.
· The tipping fee at Port Angeles Landfill increases to a point where
the cost for exporting to a regional landfill (including the
tipping fee, the cost of transfer facilities and transportation
costs) is comparable.
· The Port Angeles Landfill encounters other problems, such as
proximity to the airport, that requires it to close.
Should Clallam County engage in the export of solid waste, the contract for
disposal services must identify alternative disposal plans, including other
routes and modes of transportation. Any regional solid waste facility used
by Clallam County must meet or exceed all MFS requirements. Provisions may
be made within the contract for services for periodic independent
environmental audits.
3.8.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
Implementation details are not applicable at this time.
3.9 DISPOSAL
3.9.1 Existing Conditions
Five disposal sites are operating in Clallam County. These sites include
the Port Angeles Landfill, the Neah Bay Landfill, a wood waste disposal
site, a limited purpose landfill, and a sludge disposal site (see Table
3.4). Other sites, including the old Lake Creek Landfill, are currently
engaged in closure and post-closure activities. Two wood waste sites are
in the process of closure. The Port Angeles Landfill is currently the
only site in Clallam County that is open to the general public for solid
waste disposal. The wood waste and limited purpose landfills are
discussed in Section 4.17.
Current standards for disposal sites are primarily contained in the
State's Minimum Functional Standards, Chapter 173-304 WAC. This chapter
contains standards for planning, siting, operations and closure of
landfills. Standards are also contained in the County Solid Waste
Regulations.
City of Port Anqeles Landfill
The City of Port Angeles owns and operates this disposal site located in
the city. This site provides disposal services to residential,
commercial, and industrial customers throughout Clallam County.
Prior to 1979, the landfill was operated by private contract. The City
elected not to renew the contract and began operations with its own staff
and equipment purchased with grant assistance from WDOE (Referendum 26).
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Table 3.4. Disposal Sites in Clallam County.
Site Name Operator Type and Permit Comp. Operational
Tonnage 1 Status with MFS Status
Blue Mountain Olympic Transfer Approved Yes Operating
Transfer Site, Disposal station 1988
Blue Mt. Road, 1,500 T
Port Angel es
Clallam Bay Olympic Transfer Approved Yes Operating
Transfer Site, Disposal station 1988
Clallam Bay 72 T
Clallam County Clallam Co. Biosolids Approved Yes Operating
Biosolids Disposal County from sewage 1990
Site Public Works
Shotwell Site ITT Wood waste, Approved Yes Operating
Mt. Pleasant Rd, Rayonier landfill 1988
Port Angeles 15,000 T
ITT Rayonier, ITT Wood waste NA Yes Engaged in
13th & M St, Rayonier landfill post-closure
Port Angeles activities
Lake Creek Olympic Transfer Approved Yes Operating
Transfer Site, Disposal station 1990
Forks, WA 3,230 T
Lake Creek Clallam Municipal NA Yes Closed in
Landfill, County landfill November
Forks, WA Public Works 1989
Lawson Landfill Daishowa Limited purpose Approved Yes Operating
Monroe Road, America landfill, 1988
Port Angeles 13,000 T ash
M & R, Merrill and Wood waste NA Yes Engaged in
13th & M St, Ring landfill, closure
Port Angeles
Neah Bay Makah Tribal Municipal State or No Operating,
Landfill Council landfill, county permit regulated by
900 T not applicable EPA
Port Angeles City of Port Municipal Approved Yes Operating
Landfill, Angeles landfill, 1990
W. 18th St, P.A. 39,114 T
1 - Approximate tonnage in 1990 shown where available.
T : tons.
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Current equipment inventories include a refuse compactor, front end
loader, 10 cubic yard dump truck, and a D-7H Caterpillar dozer. If
required, backup equipment is rented from other city departments or
private companies. Landfill operations staff consist of a leadman, three
equipment operators, one weigh scale attendant, part-time assistants, a
brush chipping/compost person, and one recycling staff person provided by
an outside contractor.
The landfill is open seven days per week, except holidays, from 9:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m. Disposal fees are $49.50 per ton (as of 1991). Site
operations are a modified trench method. Excavated native soils,
primarily sands and gravels, are stockpiled near the trench and used as
daily cover. The soils at the landfill have been analyzed by the testing
lab of the Washington State Department of Transportation and, with the
exception of needing additional sand, the material qualifies for State
specifications for asphalt aggregate.
The basic disposal trench receives wastes from municipal and commercial
collection services as well as from self-haulers. Self-haulers arriving
with brush or other yard wastes are directed to separate areas where
these items are chipped or composted. Modifications to the landfill were
done to put in a public tipping area and improve the recycling
facilities.
In addition to disposal, a recycling program is conducted at the landfill
site. White goods, aluminum, glass, cardboard, newsprint, catalogues,
magazines, used oil, and used car and truck batteries are the primary
target materials.
Future landfill expansion is possible to the south and east of the
present site. Of the total permitted area of 45 acres, only about 16
acres have been developed to date. The landfill is estimated to have an
additional 20 years or more of capacity remaining (Parametrix 1992).
A reserve account for closure costs has been established and is being
funded by a portion of the landfill tipping fee. Improvements in
groundwater and gas monitoring systems have recently been made.
Additional improvements, as required by the State Minimum Functional
Standards (MFS), were in place by the end of 1990. This includes liners,
leachate collection and treatment, flood prevention and recycling
facilities. The Port Angeles Landfill receives about 28 inches of
rainfall annually and, therefore, leachate management is of concern. An
increase in the landfill's tipping fee in 1990 is providing funds for
these improvements.
Neah Bay Landfill
This disposal site is located on the Makah Indian Reservation at Neah
Bay. Much of the waste deposited at this site is burned to reduce its
volume. The facility is under jurisdiction of the Makah Tribal Council
and technically not a responsibility of Clallam County. The Neah Bay
Landfill is currently receiving about 900 tons per year of solid waste.
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The Makah Tribal Council commissioned the preparation of a comprehensive
solid waste management plan in 1982 to develop overall solid waste
management strategies for the entire reservation including the existing
disposal site. This plan was completed in 1983 and has been approved by
the Tribal Council and WDOE. The Makah Plan recommended closure of the
Neah Bay Landfill and implementation of a transfer station to haul to the
nearest permitted disposal facility. However, funding for these changes
has been a problem. A substantial amount of funds will be needed for the
construction and operation of a transfer station, including the
significant increase in disposal fees from the change in landfills.
Lake Creek Landfill
The Lake Creek Landfill was closed in November 1989. This site is
located approximately seven miles north of the City of Forks adjacent to
Nighway 101. The site is owned by Clallam County and was operated by the
Public Works Department. Actual landfill operations occupied
approximately six acres with waste tire and white goods storage consuming
an additional 2-3 acres. Other operations, including gravel mining and
road equipment maintenance, took place at this site.
Waste quantities delivered to the landfill in 1988 were estimated at
approximately 5,090 tons. The landfill was used for wastes from the City
of Forks, nearby communities of Tyee, Lake Pleasant and Sappho, portions
of the Olympic National Forest campgrounds, the Clallam Bay Transfer
Station and portions of west Jefferson County.
A landfill closure plan was prepared by SCS Engineers and closure of this
site was completed by November 1989. Wastes that had been brought to
this landfill are now transferred to the Port Angeles Landfill.
3.9.2 Needs and Opportunities
Future disposal needs include the possible expansion of ITT Rayonierts
Shotwell site in about four years, possible disruptions to the operations
of the Port Angeles Landfill, and the potential desirability to divert
organic wastes to a composting operation.
ITT~s Shotwell site, currently used for wood waste and ash, is reaching
capacity and may need to be expanded in the future.
Concerns have been expressed about the possibility of problems at the
adjacent closed landfill site disrupting operations at the Port Angeles
Landfill. The old site is suffering erosion, which is exposing some
wastes on the slope facing the Strait of Juan de Fuca. However, the old
and the new landfill sites are separate operations, although adjacent,
and engineers who were involved in the closure of the old landfill do not
feel that any problems at the old site would prevent operations at the
new landfill. Furthermore, in a worst-case scenario it may become
necessary to partially excavate the old site and move the previously-
deposited wastes to a new site, in which case it will be advantageous to
have to move the wastes only a short distance. In this case, the
capacity of the current Port Angeles Landfill would be impacted somewhat
by the increased quantity of waste delivered, but the maximum impact of
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this scenario would be the reduction of the life of the current landfill
by only a few years.
Continued use of the Port Angeles Landfill may also be prevented by its
proximity to the airport or other problems. If this landfill were to be
closed, another landfill for municipal solid waste probably could not be
sited in Clallam County, and alternative disposal methods would be needed.
In addition to waste export providing a solution in this case, it may be
possible to address the root of the airport proximity problem by changing
the nature of the waste received by the Port Angeles Landfill. Through
composting the waste stream, or by diverting the wet, food-containing
fraction of the waste stream to a compost operation, it may be possible to
eliminate the attraction of the landfill to birds. Other bird control
mechanisms may also be possible, and it is the risk of plane accidents
caused by birds that creates the conflict between the location of the
landfill and the nearby airport.
3.9.3 Alternative Methods
Solid waste management options include additional landfill sites, transfer
stations, incineration, composting, recycling and waste reduction, and
alternative methods of administering these programs (such as disposal
districts). Most of these ideas have been discussed in previous sections
of this chapter. Solid waste composting is discussed below, in this
section, and the concept of a disposal district is discussed in the next
section (regulation and administration).
Alternatives covered in this section include solid waste composting and
additional landfill sites. Solid waste composting can be viewed as a
disposal or a recovery method. It is discussed here to distinguish it from
composting of yard waste, which was discussed in detail in a previous
section.
Solid Waste Composting
Solid waste composting can be done with or without the addition of sewage
sludge. Although the sewage sludge provides a slight amount of additional
nutrients for bacterial activity, the main advantages of using it are to
add moisture and to dispose of the sewage sludge itself. Solid waste
composting can also be conducted on the entire waste stream, with screening
afterwards to remove non-degraded objects, but typically better results are
achieved using pre-processing to remove non-compostable materials. Pre-
processing helps to eliminate physical and chemical contaminants that might
hinder the marketability of the finished compost. Solid waste composting
is further defined here to include composting of specific parts of mixed
municipal solid waste, including composting of food waste or other organics
such as fish processing waste.
Solid waste composting facilities are successfully operating in the range
of 50 to 100 tons per day, although the American use of this technology is
relatively new and still under development. Composting has been more fully
developed for use in European countries, but in transferring the technology
to the United States it has been necessary to address differences in
regulations and waste composition. Solid waste composting facilities
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usually provide a front-end opportunity for recovery of recyclable
materials and removal of other materials to improve the marketability of
the end product.
To be successful as a waste disposal method, markets for the finished
compost and any other recovered materials must be available. Markets for
solid waste compost have often included tree farms, land reclamation
projects, landfill cover (where cover materials are scarce), lawn
installations and other landscaping purposes.
The success of a composting operation could also be gauged based on its
ability to eliminate a disposal problem. In Clallam County's case, this
could mean the ability to dispose of fish processing waste or other
difficult waste streams. It could also mean allowing the continued use of
the Port Angeles Landfill, by eliminating food waste that attract birds.
Additional Solid Waste Landfill Sites
The needs of the east end of the County should be adequately served by Port
Angeles Landfill for the next 20 years, but additional landfill sites might
be developed to serve the west end of the County or to accept wood and
demolition wastes from the public.
A sanitary landfill on the west end could reduce transportation costs, but
this reduction would likely be offset by the high per-ton disposal cost for
a landfill that accepts only small amounts of waste yet must meet Minimum
Functional Standards. The west end of the County (the West County/Forks
and Sekiu/Clallam Bay areas, see Table 2.3) generates about 3,300 tons per
year. If the waste currently handled by the Neah Bay Landfill was also
sent to the new landfill, the total amount could increase to about 4,200
tons per year.
The cost to develop and operate a new sanitary landfill that meets current
Minimum Functional Standards and handles only 4,200 tons per year would be
above $100 per ton (in 1990 dollars). This relatively high cost is due the
fact that many of the expenses associated with the development of a
landfill are largely fixed and do not vary that greatly with the size of
the landfill. Hence, there is a large amount of expenses that are spread
over a small amount of waste, and the cost per ton increases significantly
as a result. Expenses that are fairly fixed include costs such as site
selection, permitting, utility connections, access roads, and operations
equipment. Furthermore, operating costs such as leachate treatment could
be higher than normal due to the high amounts of rainfall that are received
in the west end of the County. This rainfall and the prevalence of surface
water would make siting a landfill on the west side difficult if not
impossible.
A new landfill for wood waste is currently being developed. The Port of
Port Angeles has been granted approval by the Clallam County Environmental
Health Division to construct a wood waste landfill. Construction of the
facility began in the fall of 1991. Another site may be pending. Fields-
Shotwell Inc. (formerly Shotwell-Precast) has submitted an application for
a landfill for wood waste and inert materials. The status of the
application is inactive as of mid-1991. Both of these sites may be open to
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the public, thus providing a low-cost opportunity for disposal of wood
wastes.
3.9.4 Recommendations
Since sanitary landfill disposal capacity is not an immediate issue, it is
recommended that no disposal alternatives be actively pursued at this time.
Alternatives should be further explored at a later date, when technologies
such as solid waste composting have become more developed, and when new
environmental standards and/or demographic shifts {i.e., changes in the
source of waste} can be addressed. For the next ten to fifteen years, the
Port Angeles Landfill should continue to be used as the primary disposal
option for Clallam County.
Proposals and options to develop special-purpose landfills, such as wood
waste and/or construction/demolition sites, should be considered as they
are proposed.
Proposals to compost specific waste streams, such as fish processing waste,
should also be considered as they are developed.
3.9.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
This Plan does not recommend any additional changes to the current system.
For special-purpose landfills, proposals that are pending {Fields-Shotwell
Inc.} or are expected to be received should be considered. In the case of
special-purpose landfills open to the public for wood and/or
construction/demolition wastes, the special-purpose landfills would provide
a less expensive disposal option for relatively inert materials, but the
diversion of this material from the Port Angeles Landfill may raise the
per-ton cost for handling solid waste at that landfill. This would be the
result of spreading fixed costs over a lower amount of waste. However, the
impact of this diversion is expected to be marginal, since only low volumes
of these wastes are currently being brought to the Port Angeles Landfill.
The need for alternative disposal sites and methods should be reassessed in
all future revisions of this Plan.
3.10 REGULATION AND ADMINISTRATION
3.10.1 Existing Conditions
The purpose of this section is to identify the regulations and agencies
which currently affect solid waste management in Clallam County and to
explore options for future administration. An inventory of governmental
agencies with some authority over solid waste management practices and
facilities is necessary to adequately characterize the existing solid
waste management system. Solid waste facilities in the County include
landfills, transfer stations, wood and industrial waste disposal sites,
sewage treatment plants, hospital incinerators and recycling centers.
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At the federal and state levels, the primary regulatory authorities for
solid waste management are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
the Washington State Department of Ecology {WDOE) respectively. The
Environmental Health Division of the Clallam County Community Development
Department is the responsible (RCW 70.95.160) local authority for issuing
permits for solid waste handling operations. The minimum requirements of
both the State and federal programs must also be satisfied before a
permit can be issued.
Federal Level
At the federal level, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976
(RCRA), as amended by the Solid Waste Disposal Act Amendments of 1980 (42
U.S.C. 6901-6987), is the primary body of legislation dealing with solid
waste. Subtitle D of RCRA deals with non-hazardous solid waste disposal
and requires the development of a state comprehensive solid waste
management program that outlines the authorities of local, state and
regional agencies. Subtitle D requires that state program must prohibit
"open dumps" and provide that all solid waste be disposed in an
environmentally-sound manner.
State Level
The State Solid Waste Management Act (Ch. 70.95 RCW), adopted in 1969 and
updated in 1989, provides for a comprehensive, state-wide solid waste
management program. Ch. 70.95 RCW assigns primary responsibility for
solid waste handling to local governments, giving each county, in
cooperation with its cities, the task of setting up a coordinated county
solid waste management plan which places an emphasis on waste reduction
and recycling programs. Enforcement and regulatory responsibilities are
assigned to the cities, county, or jurisdictional health department.
The Minimum Functional Standards for Solid Waste Handling (Ch. 173-304
WAC} were promulgated by WDOE under the authority granted by Ch. 70.95
RCW. The Minimum Functional Standards reflect the State's solid waste
management priorities and desire to protect the environment from adverse
impacts that may be created by solid waste management and disposal
facilities.
Chapter 36.58, Solid Waste Disposal, of the Revised Codes of Washington
(RCW) establishes the counties~ rights and responsibilities regarding
solid waste management. The authority to establish solid waste disposal
districts is provided in Chapter 36.58. The authority to establish solid
waste collection districts is provided in Chapter 36.58A. These
districts can be set up to provide and fund solid waste processing,
disposal and/or collection services in the unincorporated parts of the
county, and in incorporated areas with their consent.
RCW 36.58.040 may be used to enact flow control for the assurance of
waste stream to a resource recovery facility or other disposal site.
This section states that each county may designate disposal sites for all
solid waste collected in the unincorporated areas pursuant to the
provisions of a comprehensive solid waste plan.
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Other relevant State legislation includes Washington~s Model Litter
Control and Recycling Act. The Model Litter Control and Recycling Act
(Ch. 70.93 RCW).and associated WDOE regulations {Ch. 173-310 WAC)
generally prohibit the deposit of garbage or refuse on any property not
properly designated as a disposal site.
Local Level
In Clallam County, the local governmental organizations involved in solid
waste management include the Clallam County Public Works Department,
Clallam County Environmental Health Division, City of Port Angeles Solid
Waste Utility, the City of Sequim Utilities Department, the City of Forks
Utilities Department and the Tribal Councils. Each of these entities has
its own special area of operations; providing specific services to the
residents within that area and enforcing specific rules and regulations.
One such set of rules that affects solid waste management is zoning
codes.
Clallam County Public Works Department: The Clallam County Public Works
Department operated Lake Creek, Blue Mountain and Clallam Bay Transfer
Stations prior to the contract with Olympic Disposal. The Assistant
Director (formerly the Utilities Supervisor) manages activities related
to solid waste and sewer. In addition, the Public Works Department has
on staff a litter control officer. Past problems associated with solid
waste operations include inadequate revenue from disposal fees to cover
costs incurred for solid waste disposal, lack of formal agreements
between local jurisdictions and other organizations regarding waste
management practices of mutual concern, and the need for formal approval
of sludge management plans utilized in the County.
Expenditures for solid waste activities in 1990 amounted to $69,721.
Revenues from user fees (primarily lease payments) totalled $68,864.
Lease payments are currently charged to Olympic Disposal, a cost which is
recovered by Olympic Disposal through the user fee at the transfer
station, and these lease payments are placed by the County into a Solid
Waste Fund. The Solid Waste Fund is treated like an enterprise fund, and
is used to pay for contract management, enforcement and planning
activities.
Clallam County Environmental Health Division: The Environmental Health
Division of the Clallam County Department of Community Development is the
local enforcement agency for County and State {Ch. 173-304 WAC}
regulations regarding solid waste activities. The County regulations are
contained in Chapter 2 of the Clallam County Health Regulations (CCHR).
The Environmental Health Division action complaints of illegal dumping,
and issues permits and conducts periodic inspections of disposal
facilities.
The activities of the Environmental Health Division are funded through
the Division's budget, the permit fee system, and grants from WDOE.
However, as with many other counties in the State, these funds do not
cover all of the costs of effectively supporting the mandated programs.
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The permit process for disposal sites includes an application fee for new
sites and annual review of permits. The initial application form,
developed by the Washington Department of Ecology, requires information
about the type of wastes to be disposed, environmental conditions of the
area and operating plans. A site permit fee is based on the relative
risk of environmental and public health threats as a measure of the
degree of regulatory monitoring needed. Table 3.5 lists the conditions
considered in calculating the permit fee.
Disposal permits are issued for landfills, transfer stations and other
disposal sites. Unpermitted and illegal sites have been a problem in the
County. Private residential dumps, though not required to obtain a
permit, have created nuisance problems in some areas. County action
against these offenses is often slow or nonexistent due to funding and
personnel constraints. The County Environmental Health Division has
received State grant assistance for enforcement actions and has become
more active in dealing with these problems.
City of Port Anqeles Public Works: The Solid Waste Utility for the City
of Port Angeles operates the Port Angeles Sanitary Landfill and the
City's solid waste collection system. The Solid Waste Utility is part of
the Public Works Department and also oversees a limited number of
commercial accounts served by Olympic Disposal (for customers within Port
Angeles whose waste volume exceeds the size of containers provided by the
City).
The budget for the Port Angeles Solid Waste Utility is funded by user
fees collected at the landfill, collection services and gravel sales. In
1990 total revenues amounted to $1,413,100 and total expenditures
amounted to $1,551,736. Disposal fees as of mid-1991 are $49.50 per ton
at the landfill and $12.75 per month for residential collection.
A landfill operations plan was prepared in December 1988 (Beck 1988b) to
provide guidance for the operation of the landfill in accordance with
current Washington Department of Ecology Minimum Functional Standards.
Additional information, including revised design concepts and accounting
of tonnages diverted by recycling programs, is provided by the Amendment
to the Port Angeles Landfill Report (Parametrix 1992).
City of Sequim Utilities Department: The Utilities Department for the
City of Sequim provides commercial and residential customers with
automated refuse collection services and a sewage treatment system within
the incorporated area. Curbside recycling service is contracted out to a
private vendor (EWS). The budget for the solid waste collection service
is derived from collection fees. The City's expenses in providing
collection service in 1990 were $273,996 and revenues generated from this
service were $351,480. The primary need identified for the City is for a
more cost effective means of transfer of collected refuse from Sequim to
the Port Angeles Landfill.
City of Forks Utilities Department: The City of Forks has no direct
involvement in solid waste management except for the operation of a
sewage treatment plant. Olympic Disposal provides garbage collection
service to the residents of Forks on an optional basis. Many residents
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Table 3.5. Solid Wa. ste Disposal Site Permit Fees.
The applicable conditions are to be totaled for each disposal site to
arrive at the total permit fee amount:
I Ground Water Pollution Potential (major threat) 10,000.00
2 Ground Water Pollution Potential (minor threat) 1,000.00
3 Methane Migration Potential {major threat} 2,000.00
4 Methane Migration Potential (minor threat) 200.00
5 Surface Water Pollution {major threat) 2,000.00
6 Surface Water Pollution {minor threat} 200.00
7 Putrescibles Disposal Only (public use) 800.00
8. Demolition Materials Only {public use) 400.00
g. Demolition Materials Only {private use) 100.00
10. Urban-Residential Area Location and
Accepting Putrescibles 1,000.00
11. Transfer Site Only 100.00
12. Recycle Storage Site 100.00
13. Wood Waste Disposal Site Only 150.00
14. Reclamation Permits 100.00
15. Short Term Disposal Site (one time only) 100.00
16. Sludge/Septage Utilization Permits - application review 500.00
17. Sludge/Septage Utilization Permits - annual renewal 100.00
18. Technical Assistance - Solid Waste $40.00 per hour
19. Late Fee after February 15 compounded quarterly 25% of base fee
Total $
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choose to haul their own wastes an average of seven miles to the Lake
Creek Transfer Station.
Indian Reservations: Within Clallam County there are five Indian
reservations, the largest of which is the Makah Indian Reservation
located at Neah Bay. The Quileute and Ozette Indian Reservations are
located on the Pacific Coast. The Lower Elwha Indian Reservation is
located on the Strait of Juan de Fuca west of Port Angeles and the
Jamestown-Klallam Reservation is along the south end of Sequim Bay.
The tribes exercise solid waste management authority over tribal lands
within their respective reservations. Local and state governments have
limited jurisdictional authority over the reservations or their residents
in terms of solid waste planning, implementation and taxation. The
tribes must abide by regulations imposed by the Federal Government and
outlined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. The tribes are
governed by a Tribal Council or Committee made up of elected members.
The Councils hold regular meetings and handle all business affairs of the
tribes.
Land Use Plans: Clallam County's Comprehensive Land Use Plan, Title 31
of the County Code (as adopted December 28, 1982 and subsequently
amended), addresses general issues and goals for each of the land use
zones in the County. Solid waste management is not directly addressed in
any of the zones where its use is conditionally permitted.
The City of Port Angeles developed a Comprehensive Land Use Plan in 1976.
As with the County Plan, solid waste management is not directly
addressed.
Zoninq Codes: Another important set of rules concerning solid waste
management activities is zoning codes. In Clallam County, both the
County and the City of Port Angeles have adopted zoning codes that
address solid waste disposal facilities. The Clallam County Zoning Code
(adopted December 29, 1982) classifies parcels according to permitted
uses. Under Section 33.50.110 of the Clallam County Zoning Code, solid
and liquid waste disposal facilities are permitted only as conditional
uses in certain specified zones. The City of Port Angeles classifies
disposal sites in Section 12 (M-2-Industrial District) of their Zoning
Code, thus restricting the location of such facilities. The zoning codes
are discussed in more detail in Appendix A of this Plan.
3.10.2 Needs and Opportunities
Additional funding for enforcement activities is needed. At the present,
there is little opportunity to enforce provisions for illegal dumping,
littering, backyard burning and related problems. A recently-adopted
County litter ordinance, designed to alleviate the possibility of increased
problems caused by higher disposal fees, and the addition of a litter
control officer to Public Works staffing are important steps but may not be
enough. The incentive for improper disposal of solid waste will increase
as disposal fees continue to increase (due to inflation and increased
regulatory requirements), and enforcement of litter and illegal dumping
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ordinances may have to be increased significantly until residents become
accustomed to the higher costs.
Litter and illegal dumping are extremely important issues to the City of
Forks. Trash that has fallen out of self-haul vehicles on their way to the
Lake Creek Transfer Station litters the main entrance to town (Highway
101). This is an undesirable situation for an area where tourism plays a
major role in the economy.
3.10.3 Alternative Methods
Alternative methods for regulating and administering solid waste programs
include solid waste collection districts, solid waste disposal districts,
and an expansion of current efforts.
Chapters 36.58 and 36.58A of RCW allow the establishment of waste disposal
districts and waste collection districts, respectively, within a county.
Either district can include the incorporated areas of a city or town only
with their consent. A solid waste district (for collection or disposal)
could centralize functions that are now handled by a variety of county and
city agencies, but it may be difficult to develop a consensus on the
formation and jurisdiction of either type of district. However, either
type of district may be able to alleviate illegal dumping and other
problems through the institution of mandatory garbage collection (for a
collection district only) and/or general financing programs.
RCW 36.58.040 prohibits counties from operating a solid waste collection
system, but the establishment of a solid waste collection district which
can act in a similar capacity is allowed by Ch. 36.58A RCW. Following the
adoption of a solid waste management plan, a collection district can be
created which includes the unincorporated areas of a county. Incorporated
areas may be included in the collection district subject to the consent of
the legislative authority of the city or town. However, a collection
district does not appear to possess taxing authority. According to RCW
36.58A.040, revenue-generating authority of a collection district is
limited.
If a county-wide collection district was established for just the unincor-
porated areas plus the City of Forks, Forks residents may end up
subsidizing collection services for residents in the more sparsely-
populated unincorporated areas. This assumes that there would be a
standard collection fee that is the same for rural households as it is for
households in Forks, but that actual costs of providing services in the
rural areas would be significantly higher due to lower efficiencies.
Alternatively, a collection district could be established to include only
the City of Forks and the surrounding area. This would still decrease the
litter problem on Highway 101 by partially changing the usage of Lake Creek
Transfer Station from self-haul vehicles to commercial garbage trucks, but
the ability to include all of the surrounding residents is uncertain. The
collection district would not be able to include the nearby Quileute Indian
Reservation or National Forest facilities without an interlocal agreement.
The Quileute Indian Reservation is unlikely to be interested since they
have their own utility department that collects waste on the reservation
and performs other functions.
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Another alternative that may help reduce litter in the Forks area would be
mandatory collection within the city limits enacted by Forks under its own
authority.
A solid waste disposal district is a quasi-municipal corporation with
taxing authority set up to provide and fund solid waste disposal services.
A disposal district has the usual powers of a corporation for public
purposes, but it does not have the power of eminent domain. The county
legislative authority is the governing body of the solid waste district.
RCW 36.58.130 allows a disposal district to provide for all aspects of
solid waste disposal. This includes the processing and conversion of waste
into useful products, but specifically excludes authority for the
collection of residential or commercial garbage. A disposal district may
enter into contracts with private or public agencies for the operation of
disposal facilities, and then levy taxes or issue bonds to cover the
disposal costs. Thus, a disposal district established in Clallam County
could assess each resident or business (in incorporated areas only with the
city's approval) a pro rata share of the cost of disposal at the Port
Angeles Landfill. This could help to discourage illegal dumping by
lowering the additional cost of proper disposal. The assessment by the
disposal district would be paid regardless of where the resident or
business dumped the waste, or whether it was self-hauled or transported by
a commercial hauler.
A disposal district is empowered to levy and collect an excise tax on the
privilege of living in or operating a business within the district.
However, businesses producing commercial garbage can be exempted if the
owner is providing regular collection and disposal. The district has a
powerful taxing authority, since it may attach a lien to each parcel of
property in the district, superior to all encumbrances other than property
taxes.
The funds obtained by levy may be used "for all aspects of disposing of
solid wastes...exclusively for district purposes" (RCW 36.58.130).
Potential uses include:
· Solid waste planning.
· Cleanup of roadside litter and solid wastes illegally disposed of
on unoccupied properties within the district.
· Public information and education about waste reduction and
recycling.
· Defray a portion of the present cost of disposal at the Port
Angeles Landfill by district residents/businesses.
· Subsidize waste reduction/recycling activities such as composting,
or increasing the types of recyclables received at transfer
stations to include tin cans, mixed waste paper, etc.
· Subsidize household hazardous waste collection events to minimize
the amount of these wastes entering the landfill.
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Additional financing for an expansion of current efforts could be derived
from general funds, surcharges on tipping fees, special assessments,
increased permit fees, and/or increased fines for solid waste violators.
3.10.4 Recommendations
Clallam County should continue to investigate the possibility of a solid
waste collection and/or disposal district as a method of managing and
administrating solid waste programs. This investigation has already begun
at the staff level, as directed by officials of both the City of Port
Angeles and Clallam County. Part of this investigation should include a
presentation of the preliminary findings to the Solid Waste Advisory
Committee, to solicit their comments prior to submitting the results of the
investigation to the City Council and County Board.
If and when a collection and/or disposal district is proposed for adoption,
new interlocal agreements with the Tribes and municipalities should be
developed. These agreements should address specific local issues that may
exist, beginning with whether the Tribe or municipality chooses to
participate in the district. By adopting this solid waste management plan,
no Tribe should be considered to be waiving their sovereign rights or
immunities.
At a minimum, the investigation of the district should address the
following issues:
· Whether a collection and/or disposal district would best meet the
needs of Clallam County.
· Areas to be included in the district, including an analysis of the
desirability of including incorporated areas.
· Implementation schedule and alternatives.
· Implementation costs and alternatives.
· Collection options.
· Waste disposal options.
· An examination of revenue collection methods, including revenue
potential versus the revenue needed for programs that are
identified for financing through the district (i.e., waste
reduction and administrative costs).
· Other services that could be provided by or funded through the
district, such as recycling or composting programs, and the impact
on these programs if a district is or is not formed.
· The need for new facilities, such as transfer stations,
construction/demolition waste or other special-purpose landfills,
or recycling processing facilities.
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If a district is formed, funding should be provided for increased'
enforcement efforts for illegal dumping and littering ordinances. An
additional 0.25 FTE (full-time equivalent) of staffing should be provided
as soon as funding can be made available.
3.10.5 Implementation Schedules and Costs
No implementation plans are required for collection or disposal districts
at this time.
The need for changes in regulation and administration should be reassessed
in all future revisions of this Plan.
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3-76
CHAPTER 4: SPECIAL WASTES
4.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter describes the management and disposal of special wastes
generated in Clallam County. Special wastes are those solid wastes that do
not fit well within the category of mixed municipal wastes: they often
require special handling practices or they are best disposed of somewhere
other than in a mixed municipal solid waste landfill. The following
special wastes are discussed in this chapter:
· Agricultural wastes
· Animal carcasses
· Asbestos
· Ash
· Auto hulks
· Biosolids (sewage sludge and septage)
· Construction and demolition wastes
· Contaminated soils
· Dredge spoils
· Hazardous wastes
· Industrial wastes
· Infectious wastes
· Petroleum sludge
· Tires
· White goods and other bulky wastes
· Wood wastes
Existing programs and facilities in Clallam County for handling each
special waste are described. These wastes are then examined for needs and
opportunities. Currently only five wastes have been determined to present
a disposal problem: biosolids from septic systems, tires,
construction/demolition wastes, infectious wastes (from small-quantity
generators), and wood waste. For these wastes, alternatives and
recommendations are provided.
Information for this chapter was obtained from members of the Clallam
County Solid Waste Advisory Committee and other sources.
4.2 AGRICULTURAL WASTES
4.2.1 Existing Conditions
Agricultural wastes result from the production of agricultural products,
which include crop processing waste and manure. Most agriculture and dairy
farming are located in the eastern portion of Clallam County, the Sequim-
Dungeness area, where favorable climate and land characteristics exist.
Farm lands comprise less than 40 square miles of arable land. There are
eight dairies and two beef cattle farms in the County, with a total of
9,000 cows. Any future farm developments are restricted by the scarcity of
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naturally fertile soil, extensive areas of dense forest, and a climate that
is not conducive to farm production.
The amount of agricultural waste generated was estimated from the County's
crop acreage and typical waste generation rates. As shown in Table 4.1,
agricultural wastes are not a significant factor for solid waste management
in Clallam County. Current practices do not result in sufficient quanti-
ties of agricultural waste that require disposal off the farm. Most wastes
are incorporated into the soil to enhance fertility. Nevertheless, a major
concern for manure processing and application is the potential contamina-
tion of nearby surface waters. Tetra Tech found agricultural activities to
be a large contributor of nonpoint source pollution to the County
watersheds {Tetra Tech 1988}. It is estimated that approximately 80 - 90
percent of livestock have direct access to rivers, creeks, and irrigation
canals in the county. To address this problem, many commercial farms have
implemented "best management practices" to prevent nonpoint pollutants from
entering water bodies. Best management practices, which are found in State
agency {primarily Washington Department of Ecology} and local government
technical manuals, frequently involve the innovative use of relatively low-
technology mitigation techniques. Examples of best management practices
include using fences to keep livestock away from waterways, rotating
pastures, and terracing the land. In Sequim Bay, noticeable reductions in
aquatic bacterial counts were observed after local farms employed best
management practices.
4.2.2 Needs and Opportunities
Although agricultural wastes are not considered a solid waste management
problem in Clallam County, educational efforts should be continued. Small
farms whose livestock have direct access to surface water should be
identified and encouraged to use best management practices to reduce the
risks of surface water contamination.
4.3 ANIMAL CARCASSES
4.3.1 Existing Conditions
The disposal of animal carcasses resulting from road kills is accomplished
primarily by burial on public lands. State Patrol and County Sheriff
personnel refer information about road kills to the State Highway or County
Road departments. The Clallam County Road Department either transfers the
carcass to Beebe~s Olympic Game Farm or buries it on remote public lands.
The disposal of dead animals by the Port Angeles City Police Department is
accomplished by delivering the carcasses to the Humane Society in Port
Angeles. The Humane Society is served by a rendering service from Seattle.
In Forks, the animal control officer buries dead animals on public lands.
In Sequim, dead animals are delivered to Beebe~s Olympic Game Farm or
buried on public lands.
Few high-speed roads exist in western Clallam County. With average speed
limits of 35 miles per hour, few roadkills occur.
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4.3.2 Needs and Opportunities
Current management systems for disposal of animal carcasses in Clallam
County are effective. No special needs are required to be addressed at
this time.
4.4 ASBESTOS WASTES
4.4.1 Existing Conditions
Asbestos waste is any waste material containing more than 1 percent of
asbestos by weight. Only minimal quantities (approximately 10 tons per
year) of asbestos waste are generated in Clallam County, usually from
building demolition activities and pipeline replacement projects. Asbestos
is considered nonhazardous when properly contained. The Port Angeles
Landfill is licensed to accept asbestos waste when the waste is triple-
bagged in plastic. Upon receipt, the waste is placed in a separate area of
the landfill.
Two specialized, state-certified asbestos waste contractors for asbestos
removal currently serve the Clallam County area; KCB Inc., and Tachon
Inc./Sublett. Asbestos waste was recently removed from the Makah Tribal
Center at Neah Bay and a nearby Air Force facility by a state-certified
contractor.
4.4.2 Needs and Opportunities
Although the management and disposal of asbestos waste is not currently
considered a problem in Clallam County, safe handling practices must be
continued at the Port Angeles Landfill. Landfill operators need to be
aware if an incoming load contains asbestos and whether it has been
properly wetted and contained. A special fee is presently charged for
asbestos waste. The fee is $125 per ton, with a one-ton minimum charge.
4.5 ASH
4.5.1 Existing Conditions
Ash results from the burning of solid fuels such as wood waste and solid
waste. In Clallam County, significant amounts of ash are produced by the
forest products industry which burns hog fuel or pulp and paper sludges.
The major producers of ash in the Port Angeles area are ITT Rayonier, K-
Ply, and Daishowa America. Ash from these mills is disposed of in two
private landfills: the Shotwell site and Lawson Landfill. Daishowa
America disposes of approximately 13,000 tons of ash per year in the Lawson
Landfill.
Wood wastes in other part~ of the County are generally burned and the ashes
disposed of in smaller private landfills, on private property, or taken to
the Port Angeles Landfill. At the Port Angeles Landfill, ash is handled~in
4-4
the same manner as municipal garbage; it is not buried in a separate cell.
Most of the ash that is brought to the Port Angeles Landfill is already
mixed with garbage before it arrives.
Smaller amounts of ash are produced by the medical waste incinerators at
Olympic Memorial Hospital {Port Angeles}, Forks Community Hospital {Forks}
and the Indian Health Service {Neah Bay). This ash is disposed of along
with other solid waste at the Port Angeles Landfill or the Neah Bay
Landfill. Incinerated sharps are apparently disposed with the ash.
Small quantities of ash are produced in residential fireplaces and wood-
burning stoves. This ash is generally disposed of by burying it in the
residents~ yards or mixing it into backyard compost piles.
4.5.2 Needs and Opportunities
Ash does not pose a solid waste management and disposal problem in Clallam
County. The forest products industry, in general, is experiencing a
recession; therefore, diminished quantities of this waste stream are
expected. It should be noted that Daishowa America~s business is strong,
but they will not need additional landfill capacity for about 17 years.
Daishowa was recently granted a Conditional Use Permit by the County which
added four acres to the Lawson Landfill permitted area.
If there were a municipal solid waste incinerator in Clallam County, its
ash would be regulated under Ch. 173-306 WAC, the Special Incinerator Ash
Management Standards. At present, the ash from boilers that burn only a
single type of refuse {e.g., wood waste or infectious waste) are exempt
from regulation under these regulations. However, federal and State
legislation could possibly change this exemption and require more stringent
handling and disposal.
4.6 AUTO HULKS
4.6.1 Existing Conditions
Automobile hulks are currently accepted by licensed auto hulk operators for
recycling of parts and scrap metal. Markets for whole auto hulks are
located in Seattle and Tacoma. The Port Angeles Landfill does not accept
whole automobile hulks; however, pieces of automobiles occasionally appear
in the waste stream, and these parts are accepted for salvage. An
estimated 20-30 auto hulks per year are illegally dumped in the County.
Auto wrecking services in Clallam County are provided by Allied Auto
Wrecking, Quality Auto Wrecking, Simpson's Used Truck and Auto Parts, and
K.B. Towing and Auto Wrecking. At Neah Bay, a private recycler accepts
auto hulks from the reservation for recycling.
4.6.2 Needs and Opportunities
Auto hulks are not considered a significant solid waste management problem
in Clallam County.
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4.7 BIOSOLIDS (SEWAGE SLUDGE AND SEPTAGE)
4.7.1 Existing Conditions
Biosolids from Sewaqe Treatment Plants
Currently, there are 15 sewage treatment plants in Clallam County.
Disposal of biosolids from the plants varies and includes timberland or
farmland application, incineration, and disposal by commercial septage
haulers. Biosolid management practices in the County are evolving toward
utilization rather than disposal, as this is a valuable material for soil
enrichment purposes.
The Clallam County Public Works Department operates two secondary sewage
treatment plants: one in Clallam Bay and one in Sekiu. In 1989, they each
produced approximately 108,000 gallons of biosolids with 1.25 percent
solids. Biosolids are sprayed along three roads on Washington State
Department of Natural Resources property.
The Port Angeles Public Works Department operates a sewage treatment plant
utilizing primary treatment. Construction of a secondary treatment plant
will begin in 1992. In 1989, 180,000 gallons of biosolids at 8 to 9
percent solids were produced. The City is currently investigating various
other options for handling and disposing of biosolids. These options
include contracting with a private contractor who will manage all aspects
of biosolids handling, including permitting; transporting biosolids to the
town of Clallam Bay for silvicultural use; composting the biosolids at the
Port Angeles Landfill; and transporting biosolids to a private contractor
in Bremerton who operates a biosolids composting facility.
The City of Sequim~s sewage treatment plant produces 5,000 to 8,000 gallons
of biosolids per day with I percent solids. The City is currently using a
permitted disposal site in Jefferson County for their biosolids.
The City of Forks operates a nondischarge sewage treatment plant, in which
sewage is contained in seepage ponds and not discharged to navigable
waters. Approximately 8,000 to 10,000 gallons of mixed-liquor biosolids
are produced per day. The biosolids are sprayed on approximately 10 to 15
acres of adjacent city timberland property. The City of Forks~ sewage
treatment plant was the recipient of two awards for excellence in 1989: one
from WDOE and the other from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region
10. The awards were based on outstanding performance in such categories as
maintenance and operation, regulatory compliance, financial management,
laboratory management, personnel training, and biosolids handling.
Neah Bay is served by a primary sewage treatment plant, which discharges
wastewater into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Biosolids are collected in a
lagoon; funding for a second lagoon is being sought. Currently, the
discharge pipe into the Strait is broken, and wastewater is being routed
into a swamp/marsh area nearby, which feeds into the Waatch River. The
Waatch River empties into Mukkaw Bay.
Olympic National Park operates four sewage treatment plants within the park
boundary. An estimated 38,500 gallons of biosolids (47 percent solids)
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were generated in 1989. This biosolids are currently taken to the Kalaloch
Treatment Plant. After treatment, biosolids from this plant are land
applied on adjacent fields.
La Push (in the Quileute Indian Reservation) is served by a three cell
sewage treatment plant.
Biosolids from Septic Systems
There are approximately 20,000 on-site septic systems in Clallam County.
The County promotes regular inspections and maintenance of these systems
through brochures distributed by the Environmental Health and Water Quality
Divisions; through public outreach programs such as Bay Watchers; and
through education efforts conducted by County-certified septic system
designers, who provide homeowners with operation and maintenance manuals
and written literature.
Disposal of biosolids from septic systems is discouraged or prohibited at
most of the treatment plants because of limited capacity for this waste.
Some of these biosolids are accepted by the City of Fo~s~ sewage treatment
plant. At Sequim, only biosolids collected in Sanican'm facilities are
accepted at the sewage treatment plant. Olympic Disposal Company hauls
approximately 3,000 gallons of biosolids from septic systems per week to
the Sekiu sewage treatment plant. The remaining biosolids are transferred
by private haulers to treatment systems outside of the County.
Tetra Tech reported that failing or inadequate septic systems are a
potential contributor of nonpoint source pollution to County watersheds
(Tetra Tech 1988). Over 50 percent of the septic tanks in the County are
over 20 years old.
4.7.2 Needs and Opportunities
Biosolids from septage systems are a problem in the County. Based on the
number of households on private septic systems, an estimated 400,000
gallons of biosolids are generated annually by these systems. Most sewage
treatment plants are not designed for this waste and would require internal
modifications before accepting it. Currently, much of the biosolids from
septic systems must be transported substantial distances, including
exported out of the County, to plants that can accept it.
4.7.3 Alternatives
The following methods could be utilized in Clallam County for the
management of biosolids:
· Construction of a treatment facility to treat biosolids, making the
biosolids from septic systems acceptable for disposal in a sewage
treatment plant.
· Development of a landspreading or land utilization site (would
require biosolids treatment prior to disposal).
· Development of a composting facility.
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The handling of biosolids has traditionally been a private sector function.
The high costs of transporting this waste to sites outside of Clallam
County will probably encourage the private sector to develop one or more of
the treatment/disposal methods outlined above. If this does not happen by
the time of the next update of this solid waste management plan, the County
will investigate public construction and ownership of a treatment facility
to handle biosolids. This approach would require substantial financial
assistance from WDOE or others.
4.7.4 Recommendations
Available disposal options for biosolids are limited. The County should
support the development of disposal or treatment facilities for the
management of this waste stream, including but not limited to co-composting
biosolids with yard waste, wood waste, low grade paper, or other materials.
4.8 CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION WASTES
4.8.1 Existing Conditions
Construction and demolition wastes are defined as that portion of the solid
waste stream which consists of building materials, soil, stumps, and
concrete but excludes any material, such as wallboard and all putrescibles,
that is likely to produce gases and undesirable components in the leachate
during the decomposition process. These materials are generated at a rate
that is proportional to the construction activity in the County and there-
fore dependent on the economic climate as well as population growth.
The total amount of demolition waste generated in Clallam County is not
known. In the past, some of this material has been disposed of at wood
waste sites and the remainder either landfilled or handled on-site. The
Port Angeles Landfill accepts small amounts of construction and demolition
waste. On the Makah Indian Reservation, most demolition wastes are used as
fill.
Part of this waste stream is currently being recycled. One company, Davis
Sand and Gravel, accepts and crushes concrete and asphalt for reuse. Both
end products are used for road base and road surfaces. The concrete that
can be accepted is limited to small pieces without rebar or wire.
4.8.2 Needs and Opportunities
Although this material can be taken to Port Angeles Landfill, it is not
necessary to dispose of much of this material in such a highly-controlled
and relatively expensive site. Furthermore, the increased costs associated
with modifications to the Port Angeles Landfill may discourage proper
handling of the construction and demolition wastes. Generators may be
tempted to handle more material on-site, when the site may not be adequate
for this purpose, or to illegally dump the material on vacant land.
An opportunity is presented by the development of a wood waste landfill by
the Port of Port Angeles at the Port Angeles Airport. If this site were
opened to contractors and homeowners, it could handle construction and
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demolition wood waste less expensively and without using the more valuable
capacity of the Port Angeles Landfill. The capacity of this proposed site
is designed for substantial quantities of wood waste, and so should be able
to accommodate the quantities of construction and demolition wood waste
generated in the area of Port Angeles and Sequim. The Port of Port Angeles
is not currently considering the possibility of including construction and
demolition wood waste at this landfill, but the County may wish to initiate
discussions about this option with the Port. See Section 4.17 for further
details about this proposed site.
The availability of at least one company in Clallam County that can recycle
concrete and asphalt represents an opportunity that can be increased
through promotion and procurement programs.
4.8.3 Alternatives
The primary alternatives for this waste stream have been identified above,
including disposal at the Port Angeles Landfill, disposal on-site at the
point of generation, and disposal in special-purpose landfills. Another
alternative that is being examined or implemented in some areas is
recycling of this waste stream.
Recycling of construction and demolition wastes requires special facilities
and equipment, and the waste quantities in Clallam County probably do not
warrant such an investment. However, there are be specific wastes that can
be diverted to existing recovery operations, such as crushing of concrete
or asphalt for use as road base or grinding of wood waste for use as a fuel
or mulch.
The ability of a company to recycle concrete and asphalt could be
publicized to increase the flow of acceptable materials to them. If
amounts in excess of their current markets were delivered, then public
sector procurement programs, including education of other potential users,
could be conducted.
4.8.4 Recommendations
Existing opportunities for recycling of construction and demolition wastes
should be promoted by the County as part of the public education efforts
conducted for waste reduction and recycling. Development of a disposal
site for separate handling of nonrecyclable construction and demolition
wastes should be considered. If a separate site is developed and if
sufficient quantities of recoverable materials can be diverted to this
site, additional recycling operations should be considered.
4.9 CONTAMINATED SOILS
4.9.1 Existing Conditions
Soil is considered contaminated if it contains significant quantities of
fuel oil, gasoline, or other toxic substances. Some petroleum-contaminated
soils are accepted at the Port Angeles Landfill, after treatment and
testing to ensure that the soil meets legal limits for disposal at a
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landfill. The contaminated soils are often used as cover material at the
landfill.
Petroleum contaminated soil and other wastes from major oil spills have
been handled differently than smaller quantities. Olympic Disposal Company
was hired to haul oily debris (excluding marine animals) to the Aberdeen
Sanitary Landfill from an oil spill in Neah Bay in 1988. Oily waste
residues from an oil spill that occurred in Port Angeles harbor in 1985
were burned in Daishowa~s wood waste boilers.
More recently, Daishowa America has used bioremediation to treat petroleum-
contaminated soil. This is an on-land treatment process which encourages
microbial activity through fertilization and pH control. The microbes
break the petroleum hydrocarbons down into their elemental components.
4.9.2 Needs and Opportunities
Contaminated soils are not currently produced in sufficient quantities to
be considered a solid waste management problem in Clallam County. Disposal
of wastes from large spills should continue to be addressed as they occur,
depending on the nature and extent of the contamination.
In the future, the quantity of contaminated soils is likely to increase due
to regulations affecting underground storage tanks. These regulations
generally require evaluation and removal of adjacent soils if contamination
has occurred.
A local company, Fields-Shotwell, has proposed to develop a storage and
treatment facility for soils contaminated with gasoline from leaking
underground storage tanks. As of mid-1991, the permit for this facility
was undergoing final review by the County Environmental Health Division.
4.10 DREDGE SPOILS
4.10.1 Existing Conditions
Dredge spoils are periodically generated from dredging of ports in Clallam
County. The ports generally only require dredging once every 20 years
because they are naturally deep waters. Recent dredgings include the Ediz
Hook Boat Launch Site, where 15,000 cubic yards of sediment were removed
and disposed on land owned by the Port of Port Angeles near the airport.
At Neah Bay, some sand was removed from the waterfront above the high tide
mark in 1989 and used as fill. Approximately 7,000 cubic yards of sediment
were removed in 1989 from Daishowa America facilities and disposed of in
the Lawson Landfill.
Two dredge disposal sites near Clallam County have been identified through
the Puget Sound Dredged Disposal Analysis Program (PSDDA). These sites are
located about three miles north of Ediz Hook, and about five mile north of
Protection Island (between Dungeness Spit and Port Townsend). Located in
calm areas, the PSDDA sites are designated as dispersive zones, meaning no
efforts are made to contain the dredged material once it has been
deposited. Prior to dredging activities, sediments must be tested for
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contaminants to ensure that they are acceptable for disposal at these
sites. Disposal at alternative sites would be required if the sediments
are contaminated.
For contaminated dredge spoils that cannot be disposed at the two sites
near Clallam County, alternatives would include a disposal site in a non-
dispersive zone, disposal in a landfill (the Port Angeles Landfill or a
special purpose landfill), or disposal at another on-land site (of which
none are available at this time). The closest non-dispersive site to
Clallam County is a site in the waters off Bellingham, which probably does
not present a cost-effective alternative. Hence, the solid waste
management system in Clallam County may be impacted if there were a large
volume of dredge spoils that required disposal in the Port Angeles
Landfill. The possibility of this occurring is relatively remote, however,
due to the fact that there has not been a great deal of industrial activity
in Clallam County that would cause substantial sediment contamination.
4.10.2 Needs and Opportunities
Clallam County's naturally deep-water harbors require only minimal or
sporadic dredging. Adequate dredge disposal sites are currently available
for the expected quantity and quality of dredge spoils generated in the
County. If dredge spoils are disposed of at a landfill or other on-land
site, consideration should be given to their high chloride content and the
potential impact this may have on leachate from the site.
4.11 HAZARDOUS WASTES
4.11.1 Existing Conditions
Small amounts of hazardous materials are used in most industries, farming
operations, businesses, and homes throughout Clallam County. For most of
these, the amount of any waste produced as a result of this usage falls
below regulated quantities and so the home or business is classified as a
small quantity generator. Typical industries and businesses producing
regulated quantities of hazardous wastes include paper and plywood mills,
photographic shops, and dry cleaners. Hazardous materials produced in the
County include pesticides, acids, oil-based paints, cleaning solvents, dry-
cleaning solvents, petroleum wastes, used batteries, and medical or
pathogenic wastes.
The largest type of hazardous waste generated by small quantity generators
in the County is used motor oil (16,300 gallons/month). Much of this waste
is generated by auto repair/service businesses and is recycled. Other
hazardous waste types include lead-acid batteries (1,500 batteries/month)
and photographic chemicals (1,300 gallons/month) (PSR 1991).
HazardOus wastes are not accepted at the Port Angeles Landfill. Additional
information regarding the management and disposal of hazardous wastes in
the County can be found in the Clallam County Hazardous Waste Manaqement
Plan (PSR 1991).
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4.11.2 Needs and Opportunities
Needs and opportunities for hazardous waste management in the County are
discussed in the Clallam County Hazardous Waste Manaqement Plan {PSR 1991).
4.12 INDUSTRIAL WASTES
4.12.1 Existing Conditions
A review of industries in Clallam County reveals only two significant types
of industrial waste generated: wood waste and boiler ash from the forest
products industry (see Sections 4.5 and 4.17). The remaining manufacturing
or industrial wastes are either handled as part of the regular solid waste
stream, recycled, or treated as hazardous waste.
Pulp and paper mill sludges are produced by ITT Rayonier and Daishowa
America. Currently, the bulk of these sludges are incinerated and the
resulting ash disposed at the Lawson Landfill. ITT Rayonier and Daishowa
America also deposit log yard and other miscellaneous wastes into the
Shotwell and Lawson Landfills, after review and approval by the County
Environmental Health Division.
4.12.2 Needs and Opportunities
Currently, the disposal of industrial waste does not pose a significant
solid waste management problem in Clallam County.
4.13 INFECTIOUS (BIOMEDICAL) WASTES
4.13.1 Existing Conditions
Biomedical waste is defined by WAC 173-302-020 as untreated waste of the
following types: animal waste; liquid human body fluids; cultures and
stokes of microbiological agents; biosafety level 4 disease waste from
certain viruses; pathological waste; and sharps waste.
These wastes require special handling and disposal practices to prevent
disease transmission and protect the health and safety of both medical and
solid waste disposal personnel. Medical facilities have the responsibility
to determine which medical wastes are considered biomedical, and for their
proper handling and disposal.
Olympic Memorial Hospital in Port Angeles discontinued use of its medical
waste incinerator in April 1990 and now has its biomedical waste disposed
of by a licensed biomedical waste hauler. As of_May 1990, Forks Community
Hospital in Forks continued to use its incinerator for the disposal of its
biomedical wastes. The incinerator ash is hauled by Olympic Disposal to
the Port Angeles Landfill, where it is disposed of with other solid waste.
The Indian Health Service at Neah Bay also operates an incinerator service,
available to all tribes in Clallam County, for disposal of biomedical
wastes. Biomedical wastes from clinics are bagged and transferred to
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hospital incinerators or disposed of by licensed biomedical waste haulers.
Monitoring and enforcement of this waste stream is the responsibility of
the Clallam County Division of Environmental Health.
The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC)
regulates transporters of infectious wastes. Their regulations also allow
regular solid waste haulers to refuse to haul wastes that they observe to
contain infectious wastes as defined by WUTC.
4.13.2 Needs and Opportunities
There are adequate systems for handling biomedical wastes from the
hospitals and clinics in Clallam County. Clinics that were surveyed as
part of the development of this Plan stated that they are properly handling
infectious wastes that they generate. No additional needs are identified
at this time for these generators, but there may be infectious wastes from
smaller generators that are not being handled properly.
There is increasing concern in Clallam County that infectious wastes from
small generators are being placed in the solid waste stream and .creating
exposure risks for solid waste collectors, handlers and others. These
generators include out-patient surgery cases, veterinarian offices, and
households (i.e., needles from diabetic persons and farmers with sick
animals). At this time there is inadequate data on the potential magnitude
of this problem.
4.13.3 Alternatives
Alternative management methods for small-quantity generators of biomedical
wastes include collection through drop-off sites or other collection
service, a deposit system, enforcement of WUTC regulations, and possibly
other methods. The drop-off service could be operated at a hospital, as
the Indian Health Service at Neah Bay is currently conducting for all
tribes. The collection service could be conducted by an existing
infectious waste hauler, but may have to be subsidized to encourage
participation by households. The deposit system would have to target
discrete items, such as syringes. Secure containers would have to be
provided for participants in any of these systems.
Other generators, such as small clinics and doctors conducting outpatient
surgeries, could be addressed as needed by enforcement of WUTC regulations.
4.13.4 Recommendations
Further research and study is needed to determine if biomedical waste from
small-quantity generators is a problem. Once the problem has been defined
more accurately, possible solutions can be developed and analyzed. The
research of this problem should include identification of potential small
generators, surveys of these generators, and discussions with waste haulers
as to observations that they may have made. Alternatively, solid waste
collectors in Clallam County could be encouraged to enforce WUTC
regulations as necessary.
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4.14 PETROLEUM SLUDGE
4.14.1 Existing Conditions
Petroleum sludge is the semi-solid mixture resulting from the settling of
particles in petroleum products. Various sources in the County include
bulk petroleum tank farms, heating oil containers, and gas station tanks.
The disposal of petroleum sludges in the County occurs on a case-by-case
basis and is based on test results that show whether the waste is
classified as a dangerous waste.
4.14.2 Needs and Opportunities
A bulk petroleum tank farm is located near Neah Bay. In an effort to
revitalize the tank farm, three of seven tanks will need to be replaced.
The Makah Tribe is investigating various alternatives for disposal of any
product remaining in the tanks.
4.15 TIRES
4.15.1 Existing Conditions
Used tires generated in Clallam County are brought to the Port Angeles
Landfill, taken to private landfills, or illegally dumped. There are no
permitted tire disposal sites in the County. The Port Angeles Landfill is
used for interim storage only.
Tires have presented a variety of problems at virtually all waste disposal
sites. The storage and disposal of tires poses fire hazards and public
health problems associated with the breeding of mosquitos and rodents.
Problems also arise when tires are incorporated into sanitary landfills.
Because of their bulkiness and resilience, they tend to surface period-
ically, damaging the cover materials and allowing water to seep into the
landfill.
The current method of disposal at the Port Angeles Landfill is to maintain
a disposal pile for tires and periodically pay a commercial hauler to
transport them away. The hauler delivers the tires to Portland for
shredding and reuse as boiler fuel. In 1990, the landfill received an
estimated 19,000 tires.
Waste tires from private and commercial sources in Forks, Sequim, and other
areas of the County are also handled by commercial haulers. The tires are
sold by the haulers to shredding or incineration facilities outside of the
County for use as fuel, bumpers, and sport surfaces.
In western Clallam County, tires are either landfilled on the reservation,
illegally dumped, or deposited at the Lake Creek Transfer Station for
transport to the Port' Angeles Landfill.
Effective October 1, 1989, a Washington State tire disposal tax was added
to the purchase of all new tires. According to Revised Code of Washington
70.95.510, the $1.00 disposal tax is collected to cover the costs of a
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statewide program of tire recycling administered by the Department of
Ecology.
4.15.2 Needs and Opportunities
Based on a national average waste generation rate of approximately one tire
per person per year, there is an estimated 56,000 tires generated annually
in Clallam County. Since about 19,000 tires are handled at the Port
Angeles Landfill (1990 figure), this indicates that about 37,000 tires are
being handled through other methods. Although it is feared that a
substantial portion of these tires are being illegally dumped or "stored"
at the site of generation, there is not a great deal of evidence to
indicate that this many tires are being improperly handled in Clallam
County. Hence, it is assumed that tire dealers are accepting most of the
tires not handled at the landfill.
As of this writing, the State tire tax has not been implemented long enough
to determine its impact on the tire disposal problem. Further incentive
and regulatory measures to discourage indiscriminate dumping of discarded
tires may be needed.
4.15.3 Alternatives
Several alternatives could be examined for the illegal disposal of tires in
the County. One alternative is to require permits of all tire collectors.
The permit would identify the recycling facilities or disposal sites the
hauler would be allowed to use. Fines could be levied for improper tire
disposal or the permit could be suspended. Development of a tire recycling
facility would also alleviate tire disposal problems. Another alternative
is to incorporate tires into a landfill after slicing, slitting, or
grinding. Shredded tires could also be used as road material on the
landfill. However, the cost of a tire shredder would be about $350,000,
and so is probably prohibitive for the amount of tires generated in C!allam
County.
A Feasibility Study to Site and Operate a Tire Recyclinq Facility in'
Washinqton State (SCS 1989a) made recommendations for collection,
transport, and processing waste tires into desirable end products such as
tire-derived fuel (TDF) or rubberized asphalt for paving. The study also
recommended funding mechanisms and regulatory measures. It is anticipated
that WDOE will be contracting for the removal and reuse of tires stored in
several large stockpiles around the State. This action should encourage
private companies to invest in tire shredding/processing equipment. It
should also encourage various energy producers to use TDF as an alternate
to coal.
4.15.4 Recommendations
The County should continue to monitor the effectiveness of the Washington
State tire tax revenue program and keep informed of any WDOE programs to
eliminate tire stockpiles. The County should also continue to explore tire
recycling alternatives. Regulation and permitting of tire collectors and
haulers may need to be considered during the next planning cycle if current
measures prove inadequate to eliminate illegal tire disposal. The County
4-15
should also consider the use of shredded tires at the Port Angeles
Landfill.
4.16 WHITE GOODS AND OTHER BULKY WASTES
4.16.1 Existing Conditions
Salvage operations for white goods (e.g., refrigerators, washers, dryers,
and other major appliances) occur at the Port Angeles Landfill, where they
are stockpiled in separate areas until they are sold about once a year.
White goods are also handled separately at the County transfer stations.
In 1989, 400 tons of white goods were recycled within Clallam County and
sold as scrap metal.
The quantity of white goods removed from the waste stream is relatively
small compared to the total tonnage of wastes delivered to the landfill,
but the comparative volume reduction is of much greater significance.
These wastes are bulky and extremely difficult to compact in a landfill. ·
Their removal and salvage represents not only a separate revenue source but
a savings in valuable landfill capacity. The amount of revenue may be
reduced as of July 1, 1992, when removal of Freon from white goods will be
required.
At Neah Bay, some white goods are salvaged by a recycler.
4.16.2 Needs and Opportunities
Adequate management systems for the disposal of white goods exist in the
County.
4.17 WOOD WASTES
4.17.1 Existing Conditions
The forest products industry generates wood processing wastes including
wood shavings, chips, sawdust, log ends, bark, hog fuel, sorting yard
wastes, pulp and paper mill sludges, and boiler ash. The major producers
of these wastes are ITT Rayonier, K-Ply, Daishowa America, Portec, Hoh
River Cedar Products, and smaller logging or shake and shingle mills.
The Port of Port Angeles is also a major generator of wood waste. Wood
waste is accumulated through the operation of marine terminals and adjacent
log yards.
The following wood waste or industrial waste (limited purpose) disposal
sites are permitted in Clallam County:
· The Shotwell Site (East Mount Pleasant Road) is permitted to accept
ash and wood waste. This site also has a variance to dispose of
water treatment basin sludge from their own operations.
4-16
· The Lawson Landfill (Monroe Road) is permitted to take hog fuel
ashes, log yard cleanup material, sawdust and bark from Daishowa
America. This site handles 13,000 tons of ash on an annual basis.
This site is estimated to have a remaining life of about 17 years.
In addition to the above landfills, the Port of Port Angeles has been
granted approval to develop a wood waste landfill on their property at the
Port Angeles Airport. This site would be used for wood waste accumulated
at the Port's facilities, and may be open to other large generators.
Construction of the facility is scheduled to begin in late 1991.
According to the 1988 Forks Waste-to-Ener§y Study (SCS 1988), there are
about 20 shake and shingle mills operating in western Clallam County.
Together with Allen Logging Company in Jefferson County, they produced
approximately 111,000 tons of green (50 percent moisture content) wood
debris in 1988. However, this figure does not include debris piled at
landings or left in the woods from logging operations. The study indicated
that for every acre logged, 20 to 60 tons of residue are left.
Wood wastes generated in the Forks area are generally incinerated, with the
ashes disposed of in private landfills. There are no wood product
industries on the Makah Indian Reservation.
4.17.2 Needs and Opportunities
At present there are two large generators that possibly need wood waste
capacity in Clallam County; the Port of Port Angeles and Daishowa America.
To meet their needs for wood waste disposal, the Port of Port Angeles has
proposed a wood waste landfill on airport property.
The wood product industry in Clallam County is currently experiencing a
recession due to logging restrictions, and future quantities of wood waste
from some of the major generators may decrease in the future as a result.
4.17.3 Alternatives
Alternatives for wood waste include landfill sites, recovery through
composting, or conversion to landscaping mulch or hog fuel. Landfilling
has been the most expedient method in the past, but future siting of wood
waste landfills may become a problem due to the growing population in
Clallam County and the lack of available land. Approximately 62 percent of
the land in Clallam County is owned by Federal or State agencies, and much
of the remaining land has an unacceptable slope or is very wet.
Recovery of the wood waste through composting or conversion to mulch or hog
fuel requires a tub grinder, chipper, or similar piece of equipment for
reducing the size of the pieces. Unfortunately, much of the wood waste is
from log yard operations and so contains a significant amount of soil and
other contaminants. These contaminants would cause a substantial amount of
wear on equipment used for processing. The contaminants would also render
the end product unusable as hog fuel unless the shredded wood could be
screened to remove the soil and other contaminants. A water bath is
sometimes used to remove non-combustible contaminants, where the heavy
4-17
materials such as rocks sink to the bottom and are periodically removed.
Paving of logyard areas would reduce the amount of soils contamination and
render the waste from these areas more valuable for alternative uses.
Composting the shredded wood waste may be a better option, since the soil
would then be a beneficial additive. Composting woody waste such as this,
even if finely ground, would take a significantly long time. Depending on
the available markets, composting may require two to three years before a
usable end product would ready. The soil would also not be a problem if
the shredded material were sold as a mulch, in which case it could be used
without having to wait for a few years.
Conversion of log yard waste into landscaping mulch is currently being
accomplished by Merrill & Ring, who is accepting a significant amount of
material from Daishowa America. This practice has greatly reduced the
amount of log yard deposited by Daishowa at the Lawson Landfill.
4.17.4 Recommendations
The possibility of recovering additional amounts of wood waste through use
as hog fuel or composting should be explored further by Clallam County. An
analysis of the costs and benefits of paving logyards should be conducted
to determine if paving will increase recovery potentials.
If needed, the market for landscaping mulch produced from log yard waste
should be increased through public procurement programs. As appropriate,
private sector companies should be encouraged to follow the public sector's
lead in procurement of landscaping mulch produced from log yard waste.
4-18
CHAPTER 5: SEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
'5.1 INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains the environmental checklist as required by the State
Environmental Policy Act (SEPA). The purpose of the checklist is provide
information on the environmental impacts of the new activities proposed by
this Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan. Further work, in the form
of an environmental impact statement (EIS), may be required if it is
determined that there are significant probable environmental impacts of the
changes or new projects that are proposed by the plan.
The rest of this chapter is the actual SEPA checklist for the Comprehensive
Solid Waste Management Plan (CSWMP). Much of this checklist addresses only
the general concerns related to the CSWMP, but specific actions proposed by
this CSWMP are addressed as appropriate. It is anticipated that one of the
activities discussed in the CSWMP, development of a yard waste processing
facility at the Port Angeles Landfill, will require a separate SEPA process
when more detail is available on the design and operation of this facility.
5.2 SEPA ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
A. Background
1. Name of proposed project, if applicable:
Clallam County Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan (CSWMP).
2. Name of the applicant:
Clallam County.
3. Address and phone number of applicant and contact person:
Mr. Steve Hauff, P.E.
Dept. of Public Works
223 East 4th Street
.Port Angeles, WA 98362 (206) 452-7831 ext. 306
4. Date checklist prepared:
September 28, 1990
5. Agency requesting checklist:
Washington State Department of Ecology (WDOE).
5-1
6. Proposed timing or schedule (including phasing, if applicable):
This CSWMP recommends various solid waste management programs to be
developed and implemented over the next five years. Although a
twenty-year planning period is used, future activities will be
dictated by a revised CSWMP (revisions every five years are required).
The development of additional waste reduction and recycling programs
are to begin immediately upon approval of the CSWMP. Some reduction
and recycling activities, such as city-sponsored collection programs,
may begin prior to the adoption of the CSWMP. Additional composting
programs have begun or will be developed in the next few years.
Activities such as increased enforcement of illegal dumping ordinances
would begin immediately, while the implementation of a solid waste
district will likely need further study before proceeding.
7. Do you have any plans for future additions, expansions, or further
activity related to or connected with this proposal? If yes, explain.
Yes. Updates toI the CSWMP will be prepared once every five years in
accordance with WDOE Planning Guidelines. Should significant
regulatory or technical changes occur prior to a scheduled update, an
amendment to the CSWMP may be produced. Although this CSWMP is a
proqrammatic (not specific to any given project) document, solid waste
programs developed under either this CSWMP or its amendments/updates
may involve the construction of facilities.
8. List any environmental information you know about that has been
prepared, or will be prepared, directly related to this proposal.
Some environmental data is presented in the CSWMP.
9. Do you know whether applications are pending for governmental
approvals of other proposals directly affecting the property covered
by your proposal? If yes, explain.
Do not know.
10. List any governmental approvals or permits that will be needed for
your proposal, if known.
In order to participate in the CSWMP, each jurisdiction will need to
approve the CSWMP. These jurisdictions include Clallam County, the
Cities of Port Angeles, Sequim, and Forks, and possibly the Makah and
Klallam Tribal Councils. Furthermore, since more than one of these
agencies will be involved in the implementation of the CSWMP, an
agreement will be necessary to determine who the lead agency should
be. It is proposed that the Clallam County Department of Community
Development be designated as the lead agency.
Permits will be required to establish a composting site at the Port
Angeles Landfill for processing yard waste. First, local land use
regulations and the landfill permit should be examined to ensure that
the siting of a yard waste processing site at the landfill is
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permissible. The actual permitting process should then be initiated
through a separate SEPA checklist for the site. A solid waste permit
under Section 300 or 420 of Ch. 173-304 WAC will be necessary. In
addition, the site may require a State waste discharge permit, NPDES
permit, building permit, fire permit, or other permits.
Permits will not be necessary for the addition of yard waste
collection containers at the transfer stations, but a change in the
contract between the County and the operator will be necessary.
A permit will not be required for the proposed recycling activities
unless a new recycling facility must be developed and permitted.
If a solid waste district is enacted, specific consent by the Cities
of Port Angeles, Sequim and Forks will be necessary for the
incorporated areas of these cities to be included in the district.
11. Give a brief, complete description of your proposal, including the
proposed uses and the size of the project and site. There are several
questions later in this checklist that ask you to describe certain
aspects of your proposal. You do not need to repeat those answers on
this page. (Lead agencies may modify this form to include additional
specific information on project description.)
The Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan (CSWMP) is a twenty-year
plan for the unincorporated and incorporated areas of Clallam County,
including the cities of Port Angeles, Sequim, and Forks. At their
option, the Indian Reservations may participate in this CSWMP.
Federal rules require that the Olympic National Park and the Olympic
National Forest abide by this CSWMP. The CSWMP was developed in
response to State legislation requiring Clallam County to submit a
revised plan by July 1, 1992.
This CSWMP discusses all aspects of solid waste management within the
County and incorporated areas, including waste reduction, recycling,
composting, energy recovery, collection, transfer, import/export,
waste disposal, and regulation and administration. In accordance with
ESHB 1671, changes and additions proposed by this CSWMP emphasize
waste reduction and recycling activities. Specifically, new or
additional programs in education, recycling, and composting of yard
waste are proposed. Most of the other elements of solid waste
management are being adequately addressed through existing programs
(for transfer and disposal systems) or are not a consideration at this
time (for energy recovery and import/export).
The only substantial changes proposed by this CSWMP, other than those
noted in the above paragraph, are in waste collection and
administration (i.e., the recommendation to investigate a solid waste
district). A solid waste district is proposed as a possible method
for increasing waste collection services and enforcement abilities.
12. Location of the proposal. Give sufficient information for a person to
understand the precise location of your proposed project, including a
street address, if any, and section township, and range, if known. If
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a proposal would occur over a range of area, provide the range or
boundaries of the site(s). Provide a legal description, site plan,
vicinity map, and topographic map, if reasonably available. While you
should submit any plans required by the agency, you are not required
to duplicate maps or detailed plans submitted with any permit
applications related to this checklist.
The activities proposed by this CSWMP will generally take place
throughout Clallam County. The only activities that will take place
at discrete sites are the installation and maintenance of a processing
site for yard waste at the Port Angeles Landfill and yard waste
collection containers at the transfer stations. Although additional
drop-off sites (in the Cities of Sequim, Forks, and Neah Bay) for
recyclable materials are also recommended, specific sites are not
proposed by the CSWMP for these sites. Furthermore, such sites are
expected to have low impact if appropriately sited and designed. For
instance, containers placed in a corner of a grocery store parking lot
have worked quite well in other areas and can be installed without the
need for additional structures or other improvements such as access
roads.
Responses shown in the following section reflect the lack of a
specific site for most of the activities proposed by the CSWMP.
B. Environmental Elements
1. Earth
a. General description of the site:
Proposed activities will not be performed at a specific site, with the
exception of yard waste collection containers at transfer stations and
a processing site at the Port Angeles Landfill. The terrain at these
sites is generally flat, with nearby hilly terrain. Most of Clallam
County can be characterized as mountainous.
b. What is the steepest slope on the site (approximate percent slope)?
Existing sites have manageable slopes, and the selection of any future
sites will be based in part on the presence of an acceptable slope.
In general, the County contains slopes that range from zero (although
these areas are limited in size and extent) to very steep slopes,
including vertical cliffs (percent figures cannot be calculated for
vertical "slopes").
c. What general types of soils are found on the site (for example, clay,
sand, gravel, peat, muck)? If you know the classification of
agricultural soils, specify them and note any prime farmland.
Soils found in areas of lower elevation in Clallam County (where solid
waste facilities are located and future facilities would be sited)
include unconsolidated deposits of clay, silt, sand and gravel (SCS
1989b). The native soils in the area of the Port Angeles Landfill are
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primarily sands and gravel. The only significant tracts of
agricultural land are in the area around Sequim, where there are about
4,500 acres of agricultural land. No site-specific activities are
proposed in the area of Sequim.
d. Are there surface indications or history of unstable soils in the
immediate vicinity? If so, describe.
There are no known indications or history of unstable soils in the
area of site-specific activities. The presence of unstable soils at
any future sites would preclude use of that site unless the unstable
soils could be controlled.
e. Describe the purpose, type, and approximate quantities of any filling
or grading proposed. Indicate the source of the fill.
No substantial amounts filling or grading is proposed, although some
may be necessary for yard waste collection and processing facilities.
For collection facilities, minor filling and grading may be necessary
at the transfer stations to allow the addition of containers dedicated
to yard waste. For the yard waste processing site at the Port Angeles
Landfill, some grading may be necessary to install a runoff collection
pond for the leachate from compost windrows or to tie into the
existing runoff ponds.
f. Could erosion occur as a result of clearing, construction, or use? If
so, generally describe.
No erosion is expected to result from any activities proposed by the
CSWMP.
g. About what percentage of the site will be covered with impervious
surfaces after project construction (for example, asphalt or
buildings)?
Additional amounts of impervious surfaces are expected to be marginal
on a percentage basis. At the transfer stations, the additional
amounts of impervious surface caused by the container and associated
roadway should be less than 800 square feet per site. For the
composting site at the Port Angeles Landfill, an impermeable surface
such as a pad or liner for the processing area will probably not be
installed immediately but will likely be required in the future by
State regulations.
h. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to
earth, if any:
No control measures are necessary.
2. Air
a. What type of emissions to the air would result from the proposal
(i.e., dust, automobile, odors, industrial wood smoke} during
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construction and when the project is completed? If any, generally
describe and give approximate quantities if known.
Possible air emissions include increased vehicle emissions and odors
from composting operations. Increased vehicle emissions may result
from the increased number of trucks needed to provide additional
waste, recycling and yard waste collection services. However, the net
impact of the changes proposed by the CSWMP may be a reduction in
vehicle emissions through a reduction in the number of vehicle trips
to the transfer stations. If mandatory waste collection is enacted as
part of a solid waste district, large trucks servicing waste
collection routes in the more rural areas of the County will replace
the need for numerous trips to the transfer stations by cars and small
trucks. Also, waste reduction education should lead to a reduction of
waste quantities and so possibly to a reduction in vehicle trips.
Odors from compost operations can be a problem, especially when grass
clippings are part of the materials composted. Aerobic conditions
(i.e., the presence of oxygen which allows more complete degradation
of the organic materials) are difficult to maintain due to the speed
with which grass clippings degrade and consume oxygen. The resultant
anaerobic conditions coupled with the high nitrogen content of grass
clippings leads to the formation of malodorous compounds reminiscent
of animal manures.
b. Are there any off-site sources of emissions or odor that may affect
your proposal? If so, generally describe.
No off-site sources of odors or air emissions that will affect any of
the activities proposed by the CSWMP are known.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control emissions or other impacts to
air, if any:
Control measures should be used for odors from composting operations.
These measures should include:
· Not allowing grass clippings to accumulate for long periods of
time in the collection containers at the transfer stations.
· Frequent turning of the compost windrows at Port Angeles
Landfill when grass clippings have recently been added.
· To the extent feasible, mixing of grass clippings with other
materials, such as leaves, woody materials, and/or partially or
completely finished compost.
3. Water
a. Surface Water:
1} Is there any surface water body on or in the immediate vicinity of
the site {including year-round and seasonal streams, saltwater,
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lakes, ponds, wetlands)? If yes, describe type and provide names.
If appropriate, state what stream or river it flows into.
Clallam County contains many creeks, rivers and some lakes. This
is due to the high amounts of rainfall received in most parts of
Clallam County, especially in the western and interior parts of the
County. Furthermore, salt water lies adjacent to the County on two
sides. To the west lies the Pacific Ocean, and to the north is the
Strait of Juan de Fuca.
For the only locations where site-specific activities are proposed
to take place {the transfer stations and Port Angeles Landfill}
there are surface waters present in the immediate vicinity of some
of the sites. The Lake Creek Transfer Station is adjacent to Lake
Creek and is near the Soleduck River (SCS 1989b). Lake Creek can
be a seasonal stream; in dry years it ceases to flow. Lake Creek
flows into Soleduck River, which flows into the Quillayute River
and then into the Pacific Ocean. The Clallam Bay Transfer Station
is near the Clallam River and some tributaries. The Port Angeles
Landfill lies adjacent to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, although the
active part of the landfill is about 1,000 feet from the Strait.
For all existing sites, impacts on surface waters have already been
mitigated.
2) Will the project require any work over, in, or adjacent to {within
200 feet) the described waters? If yes, please describe and attach
available plans.
No activities proposed by the CSWMP involve working within 200 feet
of surface water.
3) Estimate the amount of fill and dredge material that would be
placed in or removed from surface water or wetlands and indicate
the area of the site that would be affected. Indicate the source
of fill material.
No fill or dredge material is expected to added to or removed from
surface water areas.
4) Will the proposal require surface water withdrawals or diversions?
Give general description, purpose, and approximate quantities if
known.
No surface water withdrawals or diversions are expected as a result
of any activities recommended by the CSWMP.
5) Does the proposal lie within a lO0-year floodplain? If so, note
location on the site plan.
One of the sites involved in yard waste collection, the Clallam Bay
Transfer Station, lies in a flood plain area.
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6) Does the proposal involve any discharges of waste materials to
surface waters? If so, describe the type of waste and anticipated
volume of discharge.
Activities proposed by the CSWMP should not result in any waste
discharges to surface waters. Changes proposed by the CSWMP could
result in a reduction of existing impacts on surface waters through
the implementation of a mandatory waste collection system which
would reduce illegal dumping and backyard burning of wastes.
b. Ground Water:
1) Will ground water be withdrawn, or will water be discharged to
ground water? Give general description, purpose, and approximate
quantities if known.
Ground water should not be withdrawn or other water discharged to
ground water as a result of any activities proposed by the CSWMP.
2) Describe waste material that will be discharged into the ground
from septic tanks or other sources, if any (including domestic
sewage, industrial discharges, etc.). Describe the general size of
the system, the number of such systems, the number of houses to be
served (if applicable), or the number of animals or humans the
system(s) are expected to serve.
Not applicable; see above.
c. Water Runoff (including storm water):
1) Describe the source of runoff {including storm water) and method of
collection and disposal, if any (include quantities, if known).
Where will this water flow? Will this water flow into other
waters? If so, describe.
The only possibility of runoff from new or additional activities
proposed by the CSWMP is leachate draining from compost piles at
the Port Angeles Landfill. This leachate would occur only during
times of high rainfall. The leachate should not be toxic but could
pollute surface and ground waters due its high BOD (Biochemical
Oxygen Demand) and nitrate content. The possibility of impacts on
surface or ground waters could be prevented by retaining the
leachate on-site. This could be done by tying into existing runoff
retention systems for the landfill. If significant quantities of
leachate from the compost piles enters the retention ponds, water
may have to be removed and treated to prevent odor problems and
algae growth in the ponds.
2) Could waste materials enter ground or surface waters? If so,
generally describe.
Actual waste materials should not enter surface or ground waters,
although waters contaminated by compounds derived from waste
materials may enter other waters if not controlled (see above).
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d. Proposed measures to reduce or control surface, ground, or runoff
water impacts, if any:
See 3.c.1, above.
4. Plants
a. Check or circle types of vegetation found on the site:
__ deciduous tree: alder, maple, aspen, other
__ evergreen tree: fir, cedar, pine, other
shrubs
__ grass
_ pasture
_ crop or grain
_ wet soil plants: cattail, buttercup, bullrush,
skunk cabbage, other
__water plants: water lily, eelgrass, milfoil, other
other types of vegetation
A variety of types of vegetation can be found around the sites of the
transfer stations and landfill, which are the only locations where
site-specific activities will take place. The actual sites of the
landfill and transfer stations contain little vegetation.
b. What kind and amount of vegetation will be removed or altered?
No significant amounts of vegetation will need to be removed or
altered for the new or additional activities proposed by the CSWMP.
c. List threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the site.
None known.
d. Proposed landscaping, use of native plants, or other measures to
preserve or enhance vegetation on the site, if any:
None proposed.
5. Animals
a. Circle any birds and animals that have been observed on or near the
site or are known to be on or near the site:
birds: hawk, heron, eagle, songbirds, other:
mammals: deer, bear, elk, beaver, other:
fish: bass, salmon, trout, herring, shellfish, other:
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A wide range of animals, including all of those listed above, can be
observed in Clallam County. Since activities proposed by the CSWMP
will take place throughout the County, all of these animals can be
observed near the areas where collection and other activities will
take place. Animals which have actually been observed on-site at the
landfill and transfer stations, which are the only locations where
site-specific activities are currently proposed to take place, include
elk, deer, rats, bald eagles, seagulls, crows, and various songbirds.
b. List any threatened or endangered species known to be on or near the
site.
Bald eagles have fed on garbage at the landfill and other sites in the
past when cover was not required to be applied daily.
c. Is the site part of a migration route? If so, explain.
Not known.
d. Proposed measures to preserve or enhance wildlife, if any:
None proposed.
6. Energy and Natural Resources
a. What kinds of energy (electric, natural gas, oil, woodstove, solar)
will be used to meet the completed project's energy needs?' Oescribe
whether it will be used for heating, manufacturing, etc.
Additional quantities of diesel fuel or gasoline may be necessary for
the additional waste collection and recycling routes to be operated.
Operation of the compost site will require additional amounts of
diesel fuel for the equipment to be used. However, the net impact of
the CSWMP may be to reduce the overall fuel consumption by vehicles in
Clallam County and reduce the consumption of other sources of energy.
Reductions in fuel usage should result from the consolidation of waste
transport by many smaller vehicles (private vehicles using the
transfer stations) to collection routes by larger trucks. Overall
energy consumption should be reduced if waste reduction and recycling
programs are successful. Waste reduction will reduce energy
consumption by reducing the materials that need to be produced and
then hauled away as garbage after they have served their intended
purpose. Recycling will save energy because it requires less energy
to produce consumer goods from recycled materials than it does from
virgin materials. Energy savings from use of recycled materials
varies from five percent for glass to 95 percent for aluminum
{Stauffer 1990).
b. Would your project affect the potential use of solar energy by
adjacent properties? If so, generally describe.
No.
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c. What kinds of energy conservation features are included in the plans
of this proposal? List other proposed measures to reduce or control
energy impacts, if any:
Recycling and waste reduction are energy conservation measures by
their very nature (see above).
7. Environmental Health
a. Are there any environmental health hazards, including exposure to
toxic chemicals, risk of fire and explosion, spill, or hazardous
waste, that could occur as a result of this proposal? If so,
describe.
No environmental health risks are anticipated as a result of new or
additional programs proposed by the CSWMP.
1) Describe special emergency services that might be required.
Not applicable.
2) Proposed measures to reduce or control environmental health
hazards, if any:
Not applicable.
b. Noise
1) What types of noise exist in the area which may affect your project
(for example: traffic, equipment operation, other}?
For the new and additional activities proposed by the CSWMP, the
relevant types of noise include traffic and operation of equipment
at the landfill, recycling processing centers, and transfer
stations.
2) What types and levels of noise would be created by or associated
with the project on a short-term or a long-term basis (for example:
traffic, construction, operation, other)? Indicate what hours
noise would come from site?
Construction noise may be created on a short-term basis due to the
installation of additional facilities at the transfer stations and
landfill for collection and processing of yard waste. This noise
should be minimal due to the minimal extent of the changes needed
at the facilities.
Ongoing operation of the yard waste collection and processing
facilities will create traffic and heavy equipment noise. This
noise should occur only during daytime hours.
In the long term, additional traffic noise may be created by the
additional waste collection and recycling routes. Overall, the net
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impact of the CSWMP may be to reduce the traffic noise by reducing
the number of vehicle trips to the transfer stations, but traffic
and the associated noise will likely increase in the Cities of Port
Angeles and Sequim due to the additional recycling trucks that will
be servicing these areas.
3) Proposed measures to reduce or control noise impacts, if any:
No control measures are proposed; noise impacts are considered to
be minimal.
8. Land and Shoreline Use
a. What is the current use of the site and adjacent properties?
For the only site-specific activities proposed by the CSWMP, yard
waste collection and processing, existing sites are being used for
waste collection and landfilling. Tn other words, existing sites are
being used for very similar activities, and are currently handling the
same material (yard waste) but in a different form (mixed with other
wastes).
The use of adjacent properties is as follows:
· Blue Mountain Transfer Station - the land surrounding this site
is owned by the State Department of Natural Resources, and is
currently undeveloped.
· Clallam Bay Transfer Station - this site is surrounded by a
sewage treatment plant.
· Lake Creek Transfer Station - this site is on a parcel of land
owned by the Roads Division of the Clallam County Public Works
Department.
· Port Angeles Landfill to the north of the landfill is the
Strait of Juan de Fuca, to the south is a Christmas tree farm
and land owned by the Port of Port Angeles (part of the property
for the airport), to the east is a cemetery (city property) and
undeveloped property that is privately owned, to the west is dry
creek (a seasonal creek fed by runoff), and to the northwest is
a small undeveloped parcel that is privately owned.
b. Has the site been used for agriculture? If so, describe.
None of the sites under consideration for new or additional activities
are used for agriculture. Very few agricultural activities are being
conducted in Clallam County due to problems with soils and steep
slopes. Most of the existing agricultural activities are taking place
in the area of Sequim. For the sites where new or additional
activities are being proposed, the Port Angeles Landfill is the only
site where agriculture is being practiced or has been practiced
nearby, and there it is only a Christmas tree farm (see above).
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c. Describe any structures on the site.
For a description of the existing structures and operations of the
transfer stations and landfill, see sections 3.6 and 3.8 of the CSWMP.
d. Will any structures be demolished? If so, what?
No existing structures will be demolished as the result of new or
additional activities proposed by the CSWMP.
e. What is the current zoning classification of the site?
For the only site-specific activities proposed by the CSWMP, yard
waste collection at the transfer stations and processing at the Port
Angeles Landfill, the following zoning classifications are currently
in effect:
· Blue Mountain Transfer Station - F3, Forestry Residential.
· Clallam Bay Transfer Station - C, Commercial.
· Lake Creek Transfer Station - Fl, Forestry 1.
· Port Angeles Landfill PBP, Public Buildings and Parks.
f. What is the current comprehensive plan designation of the site?
For the only site-specific activities proposed by the CSWMP, yard
waste collection at the transfer stations and processing at the Port
Angeles Landfill, the following comprehensive plan designations are
currently in effect;
· Blue Mountain Transfer Station - F, Forest.
· Clallam Bay Transfer Station - C, Commercial.
· Lake Creek Transfer Station - F, Forest.
· Port Angeles Landfill - Rural Residential.
g. If applicable, what is the current shoreline master program
designation of the site?
The only location where site-specific activities are proposed by the
CSWMP and for which a shoreline designation is applicable is the Port
Angeles Landfill. The current shoreline designation for this site is
urban.
h. Has any part of the site been classified as an "environmentally
sensitive" area? If so, specify.
No part of the sites where site-specific activities are being
considered has classified as an environmentally sensitive area.
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i. Approximately how many people would reside or work in the completed
project?
Activities proposed by the CSWMP would lead to an increase in staffing
by the City of Port Angeles and Clallam County totalling only two to
three people.
j. Approximately how many people would the completed project displace?
No people are expected to be displaced by any activities proposed by
the CSWMP.
k. Proposed measures to avoid or reduce displacement impacts, if any:
Not applicable.
1. Proposed measures to ensure the proposal is compatible with existing
and projected land uses and plans, if any:
No such measures are proposed.
9. Housing
a. Approximately how many units would be provided, if any? Indicate
whether high, middle, or low-income housing?
No additional housing units will be constructed as a result of the
CSWMP.
b. Approximately how many units, if any, would be eliminated? Indicate
whether high, middle, or low-income housing?
No housing units will be eliminated as a result of the CSWMP.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control housing impacts, if any:
Not applicable.
10. Aesthetics
a. What is the tallest height of any proposed structure(s), not including
antennas; what is the principal exterior building material(s)
proposed?
Not applicable; no permanent structures proposed except for facilities
connected to locating an additional container for yard waste at the
transfer stations.
b. What views in the immediate vicinity would be altered or obstructed?
Not applicable; views not expected to be obstructed due to any new or
additional activities proposed by the CSWMP.
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c. Proposed measures to reduce or control aesthetic impacts, if any:
No such measures needed.
11. Light and Glare
a. What type of light or glare will the proposal produce? What time of
day would it mainly occur?
Not applicable.
b. Could light or glare from the finished project be a safety hazard or
interfere with views?
No.
c. What existing off-site sources of light or glare may affect your
proposal?
None known.
d. Proposed measures to reduce or control light and glare impacts, if
any:
No such control measures expected to be necessary.
12. Recreation
a. What designated and informal recreational opportunities are in the
immediate vicinity?
No point in Clallam County is far from potential recreational
opportunities. Most of the interior of the County is taken up by
national forest areas and national park lands, while the County is
bounded by two side by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Pacific
Ocean. In addition to the hiking and camping activities presented by
the national park, and the beach and boating-related activities
presented by the ocean and strait, there are many other parks and
campgrounds throughout Clallam County. Most of the new and additional
activities proposed by the CSWMP will enhance these opportunities by
leading to improved solid waste handling, and by reducing cases of
illegal dumping and backyard burning of waste.
For the only site-specific activities, yard waste collection and
processing sites at the transfer stations and landfill, recreational
opportunities in the vicinity of these sites include boating and
fishing on the Soleduck River near the Lake Creek Transfer Station and
boating and fishing in the Strait of Juan de Fuca near the Port
Angeles Landfill.
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b. Would the proposed project displace any existing recreational uses?
If so, describe.
No existing recreational opportunities would be replaced by activities
proposed by the CSWMP.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts on recreation,
including recreation opportunities to be provided by the project or
applicant, if any:
No such control measures are proposed.
13. Historic and Cultural Preservation
a. Are there any places or objects listed on, or proposed for, national,
state, or local preservation registers known to be on or next to the
site? If so, generally describe.
None known.
b. Generally describe any landmarks or evidence of historic, archaeolo-
gical, scientific, or cultural importance known to be on or next to
the site.
None known.
c. Proposed measures to reduce or control impacts, if any:
No such control measures are proposed.
14. Transportation
a. Identify public streets and highways serving the site, and describe
the proposed access to the existing street system. Show on site
plans, if any.
Existing streets and highways will be sufficient to serve the needs of
the new and additional activities proposed by the CSWMP. For the only
site-specific activities, yard waste collection and processing at the
transfer stations and landfill, the following access is existing:
· Blue Mountain Transfer Station - this transfer station is
adjacent to Blue Mountain Road, which is a paved secondary road
that intersects with Highway 101 at a point seven to eight miles
west of the city limits of Sequim. Highway 101 is one of the
two major highways in Clallam County.
· Clallam Bay Transfer Station - this site is on Lighthouse Road,
a paved secondary road, about one mile off of Highway 112, which
is the other major highway in Clallam County.
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· Lake Creek Transfer Station access via a short road which
intersects with Highway 101.
· Port Angeles Landfill - access via West 18th Street.
b. Is site currently served by public transit? If not, what is the
approximate distance to the nearest transit stop.
None of the sites where site-specific activities are proposed are
directly served by public transportation, but bus lines that run on
Highways 101 and 112 come close to the sites. For Lake Creek and
Clallam Bay Transfer Stations, this bus runs within one mile of the
sites. For other sites, the bus line may be up to five miles away.
c. How many parking spaces would the completed project have? How many
would the project eliminate?
No changes in the number of parking spaces at any location are
proposed by the CSWMP.
d. Will the proposal require any new roads or streets, or improvements to
existing roads or streets, not including driveways? If so, generally
describe (indicate whether public or private).
No.
e. Will the project use (or occur in the immediate vicinity of) water,
rail, or air transportation? If so, generally describe.
Activities proposed by the CSWMP will increase the need for
transportation of recyclables from the Olympic Peninsula to markets in
Seattle and other areas. Transportation of these materials will
probably by accomplished by truck, but trucks going to Seattle will
use ferries to reach Seattle economically.
For any activities at the Port Angeles Landfill, it should be noted
that the landfill is close to the Port Angeles Airport. New and
additional activities proposed by the CSWMP are not expected to either
increase or mitigate any existing impacts caused by the proximity of
these two facilities.
f. How many vehicular trips per day would be generated by the completed
project? If known, indicate when peak volumes would occur.
For new and additional activities proposed by the CSWMP, vehicular
traffic will occur throughout Clallam County. In some areas, such as
the Cities of Port Angeles and Sequim, there will probably be a net
increase in vehicular trips due to the need for additional trucks to
service recycling routes, although waste reduction programs should
offset part or all of this increase. In other areas of the County,
there will be a net decrease in the number of vehicle trips if
mandatory waste collection services are enacted. In this case, there
would be a decrease due to the consolidation of many small loads of
5-17
waste (private vehicles using the transfer stations) into larger
trucks servicing waste collection routes.
g. Proposed measures to reduce or control transportation impacts, if any:
No control or mitigation measures are proposed because it is expected
that increased traffic will be marginal at worst.
15. Public Services
a. Would the project result in an increased need for public services (for
example: fire protection, police protection, health care, schools,
other}? If so, generally describe.
An increase in public services can be expected even though it is
anticipated that most of the new or expanded services will be
conducted by private sector companies. Increased public services that
might possibly be necessary include:
· Additional fire protection services for a composting site at the
Port Angeles Landfill, and for yard waste collection containers
at the transfer stations.
· Involvement by public sector staff in waste reduction education
and implementing in-house recycling programs will place
additional demands on staff.
· Involvement by schools in waste reduction education and
implementing in-house recycling programs will place additional
demands on their staff.
· Demands on public sector staff will increase due to increased
enforcement of illegal dumping and other rules. If a solid
waste district is formed, the development and administration of
the district will also increase demands on staff time.
b. Proposed measures to reduce or control direct impacts on public
services, if any:
No control measures proposed.
16. Utilities
a. What utilities are currently available at the site: electricity,
natural gas, water, refuse service, telephone, sanitary sewer, septic
system, other?
At the specific sites where new activities are proposed (the transfer
stations and the Port Angeles Landfill), utilities present include
electricity, water, and telephone (at the landfill only). Refuse
service is a given for these sites.
5-18
b. Describe the utilities that are proposed for the project, the utility
providing the service, and the general construction activities on the
site or in the immediate vicinity which might be needed.
No additional utilities are required for any of the activities
proposed by the CSWMP.
C. Signature
The above answers are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I
understand the lead agency is relying on them to make its decision.
Signature:
Date:
5-19
D. Supplemental Information for Nonproject Actions
1. How would the proposal be likely to increase discharge to water;
emissions to air; production, storage, or release of toxic or hazardous
substances; or production of noise?
In general, activities recommended by the Comprehensive Solid Waste
Management Plan (CSWMP) should decrease environmental impacts such as
discharges to water, air emissions, and the production or release of
toxic substances. The following points highlight how this will be
accomplished:
· By encouraging waste reduction, consumption of consumer goods
will be decreased. This will decrease production wastes
associated with those products, vehicle emissions will be
decreased due to the decreased need for transportation of
consumer goods, and waste collection and disposal needs will be
decreased.
· Waste reduction education will have "spill-over" benefits by
teaching environmental ethics to children. Waste reduction will
also reduce the need for landfill space and the need to mitigate
the impacts of landfilling (i.e., the need for gas and leachate
control measures).
· Through increased recycling, energy and materials will be
conserved, and the mining and production wastes associated with
the use of virgin materials will be decreased. Although the use
of recycled materials also leads to some production wastes, the
amounts and nature of these wastes are generally less severe
than wastes created by the use of virgin materials. Energy
consumption, which leads to the production of wastes and other
environmental impacts caused by power plants, is lower when
recycled materials are used than when virgin materials are used.
· By composting yard wastes, demand for landfill space will be
decreased and a end-product will be produced that is beneficial
to the environment wherein it is applied.
· Increased enforcement of illegal dumping rules will reduce the
environmental and aesthetic impacts of improper waste disposal
methods. The impacts of illegal dumping include water pollution
from direct contact between surface waters and wastes or from
contaminants leaching into ground waters, the potential for the
uncontrolled release of toxic materials into land, water and
air, and degradation of the aesthetic qualities of a natural
environment.
· A solid waste district, with or without mandatory waste
collection services, will reduce the environmental and aesthetic
impacts of improper waste disposal methods such as backyard
burning and illegal dumping. In addition to the impacts noted
above for illegal dumping, potential impacts of backyard burning
5-20
include air pollution and water pollution (toxic substances
leached from ashes).
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce such increases are:
No measures are proposed because no increase in environmental impacts
is expected. Furthermore, any facilities that may be developed in the
future will be sited, designed, and operated in accordance with
applicable State and local (Clallam County Environmental Health
Division) regulations, thus preventing future environmental impacts.
State Department of Ecology regulations include Chapters 173-304 WAC
(Minimum Functional Standards) and 173-302 WAC (Landfill and
Incinerator Operators Certification).
2. How would the proposal be likely to affect plants, animals, fish, or
marine life?
Activities proposed by the CSWMP should be beneficial or neutral to
plants, animals, fish and marine life by providing for handling and
disposing of solid waste in an environmentally sound manner.
Beneficial impacts can be expected from decreased illegal dumping and
backyard burning, and from yard waste programs. Where compost is
applied, there will be a direct benefit to plants, in turn benefiting
animal life. the CSWMP is likely to benefit plants, animals, fish, and
marine life.
Proposed measures to protect or conserve plants, animals, fish, or
marine life are:
No special measures to conserve plant or animal life are proposed.
3. How would the proposal be likely to deplete energy or natural
resources?
The CSWMP should not deplete energy and natural resources. Through
waste reduction and recycling, the CSWMP will conserve both energy and
natural resources. The use of recycled materials as a manufacturing
feedstock requires less energy to produce the final product. Recycled
materials (steel, aluminum glass cullet, paper) can replace virgin
materials as feedstock, thus conserving natural resources.
Proposed measures to protect or conserve energy and natural resources
are:
See waste reduction and recycling measures in sections 3.1 and 3.2 of
the CSWMP.
4. How would the proposal be likely to use or affect environmentally
sensitive areas or areas designated (or eligible or under study) for
governmental protection; such as parks, wilderness, wild and scenic
5-21
rivers, threatened or endangered species habitat, historic or cultural
sites, wetlands, floodplains, or prime farmlands?
No deleterious impacts are expected as a result of any recommendations
made by the CSWMP. Furthermore, increased waste collection services
and additional enforcement of illegal dumping rules should improve
conditions in publicly and privately held park and forest lands.
Proposed measures to protect such resources or to avoid or reduce
impacts are:
Potential changes in collection and disposal regulations (e.g.,
formation of a solid waste district) should reduce illegal dumping.
Public education under the recommended waste reduction program can lead
to greater environmental awareness. Future solid waste facilities will
be sited and operated in accordance with applicable WDOE regulations
and CSWMP guidelines to reduce environmental impacts.
5. How would the proposal be likely to affect land and shoreline use,
including whether it would allow or encourage land or shorelines uses
incompatible with existing lands?
No activities proposed by the CSWMP should present significant new
impacts on current or projected land or shoreline uses.
Proposed measures to avoid or reduce shoreline and land use impacts
are:
No such measures are proposed.
6. How would the proposal be likely to increase demands on transportation
or public services and utilities?
Increased recycling and yard waste collections will increase the amount
of transportation required. This will be due to the need for
additional traffic in the Cities of Port Angeles and Sequim to collect
recyclable materials and yard wastes separately from garbage. Demands
on transportation will also increase due to the need to transport
recyclable materials to markets in Seattle and Tacoma, whereas solid
waste currently is hauled only to Port Angeles for landfilling. In
addition, activity at the transfer stations and landfill will increase
somewhat due to the need to handle yard waste separately.
Proposed measures to reduce or respond to such demand(s) are:
No such measures are proposed by the CSWMP. It is anticipated that the
operators of the collection and transportation systems will take
whatever measures are possible to reduce transportation expenses in
order to operate in the most cost-effective manner possible. More
direct measures have been considered and rejected. For instance, two
actions that could be taken to mitigate the additional transportation
needs include developing local markets for the recyclable materials and
combined collection of recyclables and waste. The development of
markets involves a long-term effort on a scale that is generally beyond
5-22
a county's ability. Combined collection of garbage and recyclable
materials has been attempted in many areas using different methods and
has generally been unsuccessful. Thus it was concluded that some of
the increased demands may be unavoidable; however, they may be offset
by savings in energy and materials through the reuse of recycled
materials such as paper, glass, aluminum, and steel.
7. Identify~ if possible, whether the proposal may conflict with local,
state, or federal laws or requirements for the protection of the
environment.
The CSWMP is not known to conflict with local, state, or federal
environmental protection laws. The CSWMP meets the requirements of
Washington Laws: Ch. 70.95 RCW and Ch. 173-304 WAC.
5-23
SEPA Rules
WAC 197-11-970 Determination of nonsignificance (DNS).
DETERMINATION OF NONSIGNIFICANCE
Description of proposal: Adopt the Clallam County Comrehensive Solid Waste
Management Plan.
Proponent: Clallam County
Location of proposal: Clallam County, Washington
Lead agency: Clallam County
The lead agency for this proposal has determined that it does not have a probable
significant adverse impact on the environment. An environmental impact statement (ELS)
is not required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c). This decision was made after review of a
oompleted environmental checklist and other information on file with the lead agency.
This information is available to the public on request.
[ ] There is no comment period for this DNS.
[XX] This DNS is issued under WAC 197-11-,340(2); the lead agency will not act on this
proposal for 15 days from the date below. Comments must be submitted by: November
2, 1990.
You may appeal this determination to the Board of Clallam County Commissioners, at
223 East Fourth Street, Port Angeles, WA, no later than November 2, 1990, by filing such
wr'~en appeal with the Clerk of the Board.
You should be prepared to make specific factual objections. Contact Department of
Community Development, Planning Division, to read or ask about the procedures for
SEPA appeals.
Responsible Official: Bill White, Director
Department of Community Development
223 E. 4th Street, Port Angeles~_~-- _
Date / o - ~,y' - ?'o Signature/
5-24
GLOSSARY
The following definitions provide additional information on the terms used
in the Clallam County Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan.
Acceptable waste: in the contract between Clallam County and Olympic
Disposal, acceptable waste is defined as all putrescible and nonputrescible
wastes delivered to the transfer stations, including, but not limited to,
garbage, rubbish, refuse, ashes, waste paper, commercial and industrial
wastes, construction and demolition wastes, tires, appliances, vegetable or
animal solid and semisolid wastes, and other non-liquid wastes.
Aluminum cans: beverage cans composed of aluminum only.
Avoided cost: the disposal cost{s) avoided {not paid) due to the use of
alternative methods of handling waste, such as waste reduction or
recycling.
Biosolids: includes sludge from the treatment of sewage at a wastewater
treatment plant, and semisolid waste pumped from a septic system.
Bulky waste: large items such as major appliances, tree trunks or stumps,
and furniture, whose size complicates or prevents normal waste handling
procedures.
Buy-back rec.yclinq center: a facility that pays people for recyclable
materials.
Commercial solid waste: solid waste generated by non-industrial
businesses. This includes waste from businesses that fall into the
following categories; construction {Standard Industrial Classification, or
SIC, Codes 15 - 17}, transportation, communications and utilities {SIC
Codes 40 - 49), wholesale trades {SIC Codes 50 51), retail trades {SIC
Codes 52 - 59), finance, insurance and real estate {SIC Codes 60 - 67},
services {SIC Codes 70 - 89}, and government {SIC Codes 91 97}
Commingled: recyclable materials that have been collected separately from
garbage by the generator, but the recyclable materials have been mixed
together in the same container.
Composting: the controlled biological decomposition of yard waste to
produce a humus-like final product that can be used as a soil amendment.
In this Plan, backyard composting means a small-scale activity performed by
homeowners on their own property, using yard wastes that they generate.
Centralized composting refers to either drop-off or processing locations
operated by a municipality or a business.
Corruqated cardboard (OCC): recyclable kraft liner cartons with corrugated
inner liners, as typically used to ship materials. This does not include
G-1
waxed cardboard or paperboard (cereal boxes, microwave and similar food
boxes, etc.), but kraft grocery bags are included.
Curbside rec.¥clinq: the act of collecting recyclable materials directly
from residential generators, usually after the recyclable materials have
been placed at the curb (or at the side of the street if no curb exists in
the area) by the residents.
Environmental savinqs: the financial savings resulting from the use of
disposal methods other than landfilling, calculated as the amount of future
landfill cleanup costs that are avoided.
EPA: the United States Environmental Protection Agency; the federal agency
responsible for promulgation and enforcement of federal environmental
regulations.
Ferrous materials: materials that are predominantly (over 75% by weight)
made of iron. Includes cans and various iron and steel alloys that contain
enough iron such that magnets adhere to them. As used in this Plan,
ferrous materials does not include paint cans or other containers that may
contain hazardous residues.
Fines: waste material less than one-half inch in diameter. Fines are
generally an artifact of the waste sampling and sorting procedure, and
represent that fraction of the waste stream too small and too mixed to
separate into other categories.
Glass containers: includes bottles and jars that are clear, brown or green
in color. This category does not include window glass, mirrors, auto
glass, ceramics or other glass which is not recyclable.
Ground water: water present in subsurface geological deposits (aquifers).
HDPE: high-density polyethylene, a type of plastic, commonly used in milk,
detergent, and bleach bottles and other containers. Also used for lining
and capping landfills.
Hiqh-qrade paper: includes typing, copy, bond, and ledger paper that is
clean and white.
Household hazardous waste: wastes that would be classified as hazardous
due to their nature or characteristics, except that the amount is too small
to be regulated. Includes aerosol cans, solvents, some paints, cleaners,
pesticides, herbicides, compressed gases, oil, other petroleum products,
car batteries and other materials.
Industrial waste: solid waste generated by various manufacturing
companies. Includes waste generated by businesses that manufacture the
following products; food {Standard Industrial Classification, or SIC, Code
20), textile mill products (SIC Code 22), apparel (SIC Code 23), lumber
(SIC Code 24), paper (SIC Code 26), printing (SIC Code 27), chemicals (SIC
Code 28), stone, clay and glass (SIC Code 32), fabricated metals {SIC Code
34), non-electrical equipment (SIC Code 35}, transportation equipment {SIC
G-2
Code 37), and miscellaneous industries (SIC Code 39). Does not include
hazardous wastes.
Inert materials: includes wastes that are inert in nature, such as
concrete, rocks, gravel, and bricks.
Landfillinq, trench method: a method in which waste is spread and
compacted in a trench. Soils excavated from the trench are stockpiled
nearby for covering waste after the trench is filled with waste.
LDPE: low-density polyethylene, a type of plastic, commonly used for
flexible packaging such as bread wrappers and garbage bags, and sometimes
used for landfill liner in a composite liner system.
Medical waste: noninfectious and/or noninjurious waste, or infectious
and/or injurious waste that is properly packaged, originating from a
medical, veterinary, intermediate care, academic, regulatory, or research
facility, and that may be legally deposited in the general solid waste
stream under federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Mixed paper: all other types of paper not included in newspaper, cardboard
or high-grade papers. Includes materials such as "junk mail", magazines,
books, paperboard (non-corrugated cardboard), and colored printing and
writing papers.
MSW: municipal solid waste, see solid waste.
Mulchinq: 1) leaving grass clippings on the lawn when mowing; 2) placing
yard wastes, compost, wood chips or other materials on the ground in
gardens or around trees and shrubs to discourage weeds and retain moisture.
Newspaper (ONP): printed, groundwood newsprint. Includes glossy ads and
Sunday edition magazines that are delivered with the newspaper.
OAPCA: the Olympic Air Pollution Control Authority; an agency with
regulatory and enforcement authority for air pollution matters in Clallam,
Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston Counties.
Other non-ferrous: non-ferrous materials other than aluminum cans,
including products that are predominantly made of copper, lead, brass, tin,
aluminum, and other metals except for iron.
Participation rate: the percentage of a given population that participates
in a recycling (or other) program.
PET: polyethylene terephthalate, a type of plastic. Commonly used to
refer to 2-liter beverage bottles, although these containers may be made up
of three to four different types of materials: a PET "body", HDPE base cup,
and wrapper and cap made of different materials.
Plastics: includes plastic film and containers made up of low density
polyethylene (LDPE), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), and materials made of mixed plastics. Does not
G-3
include composites that are made up of a number of different materials and
that cannot be separated easily.
Public education: a broad effort to present and distribute public
information materials (see below).
Public information: the development of educational materials for the
public, including brochures, videos, and public service announcements.
RCW: Revised Code of Washington.
Rec.¥clinq: the act of collecting and/or processing source-separated
materials in order to return them to a usage similar in nature to their
previous use.
Reusable items: items that may be reused (or easily repaired) by in their
current state, including things such as small electronic goods, household
items such as dishes and knickknacks, shoes and furniture. Clothing may or
may not be included in this category (see also textiles, below).
Septaqe: a semisolid waste consisting of settled sewage solids combined
with varying amounts of water and dissolved materials. This waste is
pumped from a septic tank system. See also biosolids.
Sewaqe sludq~: the concentrated solids derived from the treatment of
sewage at a municipal wastewater treatment plant. See also biosolids.
Solid waste: all putrescible and nonputrescible solid and semisolid
wastes, including, but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial
wastes, swill, demolition and construction wastes, abandoned vehicles and
parts thereof, discarded commodities, biosolids (sewage sludge and
septage), wood waste, and special wastes.
Solid Waste Advisory Committee ISWAC): a group assisting Clallam County
with the development of this comprehensive solid waste management plan,
composed of representatives from private industry, local government, the
National Park, the Makah Tribal Council, and Clallam County.
Special wastes: wastes that have special characteristics such that they
present special handling and/or'disposal problems.
Source-seqreqated: recyclable materials that have been kept separate from
garbage or other forms of solid waste by the waste generator (at the
source), and the materials have been kept separate from each other as
opposed to commingling them.
Source-separated: recyclable materials that have been removed from garbage
or other forms of solid waste by the waste generator. This may or may not
include keeping different types of recyclable materials separate from each
other (see source-segregated and commingling).
Textiles: used clothing and scraps of clean cloth. Materials that cannot
be worn again and materials made of leather are included in this category.
G-4
Transfer station: an intermediate solid waste disposal facility at which
solid waste collected from any source is temporarily deposited to await
transportation to a final disposal site.
WAC: Washington Administrative Code.
Waste reduction: reducing the amount or type of solid waste that is
generated.
WDOE: Washington State Department of Ecology.
Wood: includes large and small pieces of wood, brush and stumps.
WUTC: Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.
Yard waste: includes leaves, grass clippings, brush, and branches up to
six inches in diameter.
G-5
REFERENCES
Beck 1988a. R.W. Beck & Associates. Waste-to-Energy Feasibility Study for
City of Port Angeles, December 1988.
Beck 1988b. R.W. Beck & Associates. City of Port Angeles Landfill
Operation Plan, December 1988.
California Solid Waste Management Board, Technical Bulletin No. 2, Solid
Waste Generation Factors in California, July 1974.
Ch. 173-302 WAC. Certification of Operators of Solid Waste Incinerator and
Landfill Facilities. Chapter 173-302 of the Washington Administrative
Code.
Ch. 173-304 WAC. Washington Administrative Code, Minimum Functional
Standards for Solid Waste Handling. Chapter 173-304.of the Washington
Administrative Code.
Ch. 173-306 WAC. Washington Administrative Code, Special Incinerator Ash
Management Standards. Chapter 173-306 of the Washington Administrative
Code.
CWC 1991. Clean Washington Center. Newsletter, Re-Marketable News, Volume
1, Number 1, December 1991.
ESHB 1671. Engrossed Substitute House Bill No. 1671, commonly known as the
"Waste Not Washington Act", May 15, 1989.
Lein 1990. Personal communication from Mike Lein, Carver County, Minnesota
staff, as quoted in The Solid Waste Forum, Public Works Magazine, March
1990.
Matrix et al 1989. Matrix Management Group, R.W. Beck, Gilmore Research
Group. Best Management Practices Analysis for Solid Waste.
Vol. I: 1987 Recycling and Waste Stream Survey, December 1988.
Vol. II: Eight Waste Generation Area Findings, December 1988.
Vol. III: Statewide Findings and Recommendations, January 1989.
Vol. IV: Executive Summary, January 1989.
Metro Council 1985. Metropolitan Council of the Twin Cities Area. Solid
Waste Management Development Guide/Policy Plan, March 1985.
MN Project 1987. The Minnesota Project. Case Studies in Rural Solid Waste
Recycling, November 1987.
OFM 1990. Washington State Office of Financial Management. State and
County Populations: 1980 - 2000, November 1990.
Parametrix 1992. Parametrix, Inc. Amendment to the Port Angeles Landfill
Engineering Report, June 1992.
R-1
PSR 1983. Paul $. Running & Associates. Makah Comprehensive Solid Waste
Management Plan, June 30, 1983.
PSR 1989. Personal communication; letter dated November 9, 1989, from Paul
S. Running to Steve Hauff, Clallam County staff.
PSR 1991. Paul S. Running & Associates. Clallam County Hazardous Waste
Management Plan, May 1991.
OAPCA 1990. Fax dated May 14, 1990, from James A. Wilson, staff person
with Olympic Air Pollution Control Agency (OAPCA) to SCS Engineers.
Porembo and Vick 1990. Best Yield for Recycling Investment. Article in
Biocycle Magazine, February 1990, by Gregory Porembo and Katherine
Vick.
SCS 1988. SCS Engineers. City of Forks Waste-to-Energy Feasibility Study,
November 1988.
SCS 1989a. SCS Engineers. Feasibility Study to Site and Operate a Tire
Recycling Facility in Washington State, January 1989.
SCS 1989b. SCS Engineers. Hydrogeologic Investigation at Lake Creek
Landfill, September 1989.
Stauffer 1990. Energy Savings from Recycling. Article in Resource
Recycling Magazine, January/February 1990, by Roberta Forsell Stauffer.
Tetra Tech 1988. Tetra Tech, Inc. Clallam County Watershed Ranking
Project for the Management of Nonpoint Source Pollution, December 1988.
USDC 1991. United States Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.
1990 U.S. Census of Population and Housing, County and Place Profiles,
Clallam County, July 1991.
WDOE 1990a. Washington State Department of Ecology. Guidelines for the
Development of Local Solid Waste Management Plans and Plan Revisions,
March 15, 1990.
WDOE 1990b. Washington State Department of Ecology. Yard Waste Compostin§
Manual, August, 1990.
WDOE 1991. Washington State Department of Ecology. Washington State
Recycling Survey, Publication #90-69, February, 1991.
R-2
APPENDIX A
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
FROM RELATED PLANS
Following are summaries of the recommendations from other plans and studies
that have a bearing on this Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Plan
(CSWMP).
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ANALYSIS FOR SOLID WASTE
A team headed by The Matrix Management Group completed this comprehensive,
four volume study for the Department of Ecology's Office of Waste Reduction
and Recycling in January 1989. The Best Management Practices (BMP)
accomplished the following:
· Defined eight waste generation areas (Clallam County is part of the
West Waste Generation Area, or WGA), along with Grays Harbor,
Jefferson, Mason and Pacific Counties.
· Estimated the quantity of solid waste hauled and disposed in each
WGA.
· Evaluated the composition of residential, commercial,
manufacturing, self-haul, and household hazardous waste streams in
each WGA.
· Estimated current recycling levels in each WGA.
· Identified existing and potential solid waste management methods
for use statewide in reduction, recycling, handling, and disposal.
· Identified barriers, recommended market development strategies, and
evaluated the capacity of markets to absorb recyclables.
· Performed an economic analysis of these management methods.
· Evaluated the best management practices for each WGA and for the
State as a whole.
The BMP (Vol. IV) made solid waste management policy recommendations based
on the following objectives:
· Maximizing cost-effective waste reduction.
· Plan for source-separated recycling.
· Strengthen institutional support for source-separated recycling.
· Provide funding and incentives for source-separated recycling.
· Increase opportunities for source-separated recycling.
· Use cost-effective and environmentally-sound methods for separating
recyclables.after collection of solid waste.
· Provide opportunities for better disposal methods.
A-1
CLALLAM COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLAN
Clal~am County's Comprehensive Land Use Plan is Title 31 of the County
Code, and was adopted through Ordinance Number 175 on December 28, 1982.
This plan became effective on January 24, 1983, and has been amended a
number of times since that date. The plan addresses general issues and
goals for each of the land use zones in the county. Solid waste
management is not directly addressed in any of the zones where its use is
conditionally permitted.
CLALLAM COUNTY HAZARDOUS WASTE PLAN
The Clallam County Hazardous Waste Management Plan was completed in May
1991. The Plan addresses moderate-risk waste generated in Clallam County,
as required by Ch. 70.105 RCW. Recommendations made by the Hazardous Waste
Management Plan include:
· Public and business information and education.
· Collection and storage of moderate-risk waste at Port Angeles
Landfill.
· Collection of used motor oil and antifreeze at County transfer
stations.
· Transportation of the collected moderate-waste to a hazardous waste
treatment and disposal facility.
· A new County policy assigning responsibility for managing moderate-
risk waste to the waste generator.
CLALLAM COUNTY ZONING CODE
An important set of rules concerning solid waste management activities is
the Clallam County Zoning Code. The County's zoning code was adopted
December 29, 1982 through Ordinance Number 176, and has been amended as
recently as May 12, 1992. The zoning code classifies parcels according
to permitted uses. Under Section 33.50.110 of the Clallam County Code,
solid and liquid waste disposal facilities are permitted only as
conditional uses in certain specified zones. Conditional uses require
the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit by the County Board of
Adjustment. This permit is written with stipulations and conditions to
insure compatibility with surrounding land use. Disposal facilities may
be located as conditional uses in the following land use zones:
Forestry 1 F1
Forestry Residential F3
Rural Residential i RR1
Rural Residential 2 RR2
Rural Residential 3 RR3
Quileute Residential QR1
Mixed Use G1
State-approved hazardous waste disposal facilities as defined by the
Washington State Solid Waste Management Act are allowed as a conditional
use only in the Forestry 1 and Forestry Residential zones.
A-2
FORKS WASTE-TO-ENERGY FEASIBILITY STUDY
This study was prepared for the City of Forks by SCS Engineers and
Envirosphere and was completed in October 1988. The study examined the
feasibility of a waste-to-energy facility for the west end of Clallam
County. This study was funded in part by the U.S. Department of Commerce
Economic Development Administration. The major reason for conducting the
study was the imminent closure of the nearby Lake Creek Landfill.
The Forks Waste-to-Enerq¥ Study concluded that a waste-to-energy facility
for general solid waste would not be cost-effective for Forks or for the
west end of Clallam County. The study concluded that a pile burner/lumber
dry kiln might be cost-effective for disposal of wood waste only. The most
economical approach for solid waste handling was concluded to be a transfer
station for transporting the waste to the Port Angeles Landfill.
LAKE CREEK LANDFILL HYDROGEOLOGIC INVESTIGATION
A hydrogeologic investigation of the Lake Creek Landfill near Forks was
conducted by SCS Engineers in late 1988 and early 1989. Its purpose was to
develop information for designing the closure of the landfill and to
develop a system for post-closure groundwater monitoring. An upgradient
and three downgradient monitoring wells were installed and seasonal
baseline water quality monitoring was performed. SCS designed the closure
of the landfill, including a grading, a synthetic membrane cap, and
landfill gas venting system. SCS also provided a post-closure monitoring
plan in accordance with WDOE guidelines.
MAKAH SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN
A solid waste management plan was developed in 1983 for the Makah Indian
Tribe. At the time, residents of the Makah Reservation generated about 600
tons per year of solid waste, about 3/4 of which was disposed of at an open
dump on the Reservation; the rest was disposed of off the Reservation. The
plan recommended closure of the existing dump and construction of a
transfer facility to allow transport of solid waste to another landfill.
The implementation of these recommendations has been delayed by
difficulties in funding these changes.
PORT ANGELES COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLANS
The City of Port Angeles developed a Comprehensive Land Use Plan in 1976.
As with the County Land Use Plan, solid waste management is not directly
addressed. One of the general policies which may have some bearing on
solid waste management is "whenever economies would result without a
reduction in the quality or level of service, city facilities and
services should be combined with county facilities and services".
A-3
PORT ANGELES LANDFILL OPERATION PLAN
A study of the future operation of the Port Angeles Landfill prepared for
the City of Port Angeles by R.W. Beck and Associates was completed in
December 1988. The Operation Plan provides for continued filling of the
existing unlined 9-acre active area until November 1989 when a new, lined
area will be built and the existing active area closed. Closure of the old
and construction of the new areas will be in accordance with the State
Minimum Functional Standards. The Plan briefly addresses items such as
slopes, daily cover, intermediate and final cover, access and haul roads,
surface drainage, landfill gas venting, leachate control, and monitoring of
groundwater and landfill gas. The Plan also discusses operating provisions
such as control of incoming wastes, personnel, structures, equipment, fill
procedures, emergency operations, and inspections and maintenance. The
Plan also includes preliminary closure and post-closure cost estimates.
PORT ANGELES WASTE-TO-ENERGY STUDY
A study on waste-to-energy feasibility prepared for the City of Port
Angeles by R.W. Beck and Associates was completed in December 1988. This
study analyzed a variety of options for waste-to-energy facilities and
concluded that costs would range from $63.18 per ton to $129.42 per ton
(1988 figures, levelized costs for a period of twenty years). The least
expensive option {$63.18 per ton) assumed generation and sale of steam to
Daishowa America, a matching grant from the Washington State Department of
Ecology for 50% of the capital costs, and some form of waste flow control
by the City. Flow control would be necessary to ensure a steady supply of
waste for the incinerator, but waste would have to come from an area larger
than the city's boundaries. The study recommended that the City and County
work together to develop a solid waste management plan which would provide
the framework and basis for further exploration of a waste-to-energy
facility.
PORT ANGELES ZONING CODE
The City of Port Angeles classifies "dumps" in section 12 (M-2-Industrial
District) of the City of Port Angeles Zoning Code as "any manufacturing,
processing, commercial or industrial use not heretofore listed which may
be classified M-2 because of possible obnoxious odors, noises, smoke or
unsightliness." The Zoning Code defines a "dump" as "an area devoted to
the disposal of refuse, including incineration, reduction or dumping of
ashes, garbage, combustible or non-combustible refuse."
A-4
APPENDIX B
RESOLUTIONS OF ADOPTION
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APPENDIX D
RELEVANT STATE REGULATIONS
D-1
Chapter 70.95 RCW
SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT mREDUCTION AND
RECYCLING
S~tions 70.95.260 Duties of department State solid waste management
70.95.010 Legislative finding Pr~oriti~ Goal. plan . Assistanc~ Coordination ... Tire
70.95.020' Purpo~. recycling. · . "- '
70.95.030 Definitions. 70.95.263 ' Additional powers and duties of department.
70.95.(M0 Solid waste ndvisot-~ ~ommitten-----Meml~,.~ 70.95.265 D~partmem to cooperate with public and private de-
Meeting% Travel e. xpen.~a 'Governor's award partment.% agencies and associatimu.
of excellence.' 70.95.267 Department authorized to disburse ref~,-¢r, dum 26
70.95.050 Solid waste advisory committee~Staff services and (chapter 43.83A RCW) fund for lecai government
facilities, solid waste projects.
70.95,060 Standards for solid waste handling :,rea& 70.95.268 Department authorized to disburse funds under chapter
70.95.070 Review of standards prior to adoptkm Redsions, 43.99F RCW for local government solid waste
additions and modification~ Factors. projects.
70.95.075 Implementation of standard~ Assessment Anal- 70.95.280 Det~-mination of b~st ~olid waste management pmc-
~ Proposals. ~ Department to develop method to monitor
70.95.080 County comprehension: solid waste management waste stream Coll~'tors to report quantity and
plan Joint plan.~ Duties of cities, quality of waste Confidentiality of propri~,ar~
70.95.090 C.,ounty and city comprehensive solid waste manage, meat information.
plan~. Contents. 70.95.285 Solid waste stream analyais.
70.95.092 County and city comprehemiw solid waste management 70.95.290 Solid waste stream evaluation.
plan:: ~ of servic~ redu~m and re~-yciing. 70.95.295 Analysis and e~,aluation to b~ incorporated in state solid
70.95.094 County and city comlmd~a~ve so, id ~ management waste managemont plan.
~ P.m,i~t ami approval prooess. 70.95.500 Disposal of vehicle tires outside designated area prchib-
70.95.096 Utilities and transportatiott omxmissi~t m ~ local ited Penalty Exemption.
plan's assessment of _ _t:~_ _ impacts on rates. 70.95.510 Fee on the retail sale of new ~plaeement vehicle tires.
70.95.100 Te~hniesl a___'_e~xano~ for IMan pt'epam~ Guide- 70.95.520 Vehicle tire recycling account Deposit of funds.
~ !nfotmational materiaI- and iax~gram~ 70.95.5~0 VehicAe tire re~-ychng account Use.
70.95.110 Maintenan~ of plan~ P,m'iew, t~-visiom Imple. 70.95.535 Disposition of fee.
mentation of source separation program~ 70.95.540 Cooperation with department to aid tire recy~ing.
70.95.130 Fiuaneial aid to eenntins and 4:itins. 70.95.550 Waste tire: Definitiom.
70.95.140 Matching requirements. 70.95.555 Waste tire~ License for transport or storage busi-
70.95.150 Conttsa:ta '~ith ~onnties to assure proper ~zpenditures. n~= Requirements.
70.95.160 ~ ~ of health regulations to implement the 70.95.560 Waste tire~ Violation'of RCW 70.95.555
'o~nprel~,~ pla,- Section not to Ig ~a~strued to Peamity.
authoriz~ o0unties to opecate syatmn. 70.95.565 Waste tire: Contracts with unlicensed persons
70.95.163 Local health departments may contract with th~ d~art- prohibited.
me~t of eo~0gy. 70.95.600 Educational material promating hcmtehold waste reduc-
70.9~5.165 Solid waste disposal facility siting. Site revic-x tion and recycling.
Local solid waste advisory ~ommittee~ 70.95.610 Battery disposal Restrlction~ Violators sobject
Membevshlp. to fine----'Vehicle battery' defined.
70.95.170 Permit for solid waste disp~ai site or facilitiea 70.95.620 Identification prece~lure for ~ a~;.~pting used ve-
Rt~uir~L hide batteries.
70.95.180 Permit for solid ~ disposal site or fa~iitiea Ap- 70.95.630 Requirements for accepting ~ batteries by ~tailen~
pficationa, fee. of vehicle batterie~ Notice.
70.95.185 Permit for solid waste disposal site or facilitie~ Re- 70.95.640 Retail core charge.
~ by department Appeal of issuan~ Valid- 70.95.650 Vehicle battery whole~aler~ Obligatio~ regarding
ity of permits issued after June 7. 1984. used batteries Noncompliance _~___ure.
70.95.190 Pea'mit for solid waste dispo~l site or faciliti~ Re- 70.95.660 Department to distribute printed notic~ Issuance of
~ :.ppcal ,., Validity of renewal, warning~ and citafiort~ Fines.
70.95.200 Permit for solid waste disposal site or facilities 70.95.670
Suspensk~ 70.95.700 Solid waste incineration or energ~ recovery facility---=--
70.95.210 Hcafi~' Appeal. Environmental impact stat~nent requirement,
70.95.215 Land£di disposal facilitie~ P, eserve aczxamts re- 70.95.710 Incineration of medical waste.
quired by July I, 1987 Exeeptiot: P, ules. 70.95.720 CIo~ure of energy recovery and incineration faclii-
70.95.220 Finan~ai aid to jurisdictional health departments ti~ Recordkeeping requirements.
Application~ Allocations. 70.95.800 Solid waste management account.
70.95.230 Financial aid to jurisdictional health departmenta 70.95.8 I0 Composting food and yard wastea Grant~ and study.
Matching funds requirements. 70.95.900 Authority and r~ponsibillty of utilities and transporta-
0.95.240 Unlawful to dump or deposit solid waste without tion commisaion not changed.
permit. 70.95.901 Severability 1989 c 431.
70.95.250 Name appearin8 on waste matea~al Presumption. 70.95.902 Section captions not law 1989 c 43 I.
70.95.255 Disposal of municipal t~-wage sludge or septic tank 70.95.903 Application of chapter Collection and transporta-
sludge prohibited . Exemptions Uses of sludge tion of recyeAable materials by recy~lin8 c~npanics or
nonprofit entitier Reus~ or reclamation.
material permitted. 70.95.910 Severability 1969 ex.~. c 134.
70.95.911 Severability - 1975-'76 2nd cx.~. c 4 I.
(1990 Laws)
C2mpter 70.95 Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling
population densities, distances to and availability of re-
Litter control, recycling: Chapter 70.93 RCW. cycling markets, and collection and disposal costs in
each community; and to provide county and city govern-
RCW 70.95.010 Legislative finding Priori- ments with adequate technical resources to accomplish
ti~-. Goal. Thc legislature finds: this responsibility.
(1.) Continuing technological changes in methods of (7) Environmental and economic considerations in
manufacture, packaging, and marketing of consumer solving thc state's solid waste management problems re-
products, together with the economic and population quires strong consideration by local governments of re-
growth of this state, the' rising affluence of its citizens, gional solutions and intergovernmental cooperation.
and its expanding industrial activity have created new (8) Thc following priorities for thc collection, hah-
and ever-mounting problems involving disposal of gar- dling, and management of solid waste are necessary and
bage, refuse, and solid waste materials resulting from should be followed in descending order as applicable:
domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities,.. (a) Waste reduction;
(2) Traditional methods of disposing of solid wastes in (b) Recycling, with source separation of recyclablc
this state arc no longer adequate to me~t the ever-in- materials as the preferred method;
creasing problem. Improper methods and practices of (c) Energy recovery, incineration, or landfill of sepa-
handling and disposal of sold wastes pollute our land, rated waste;
air and water resources, blight our countryside, ad- (d) Energy recovery, incineration, or landfilling of
versely affect land values, and damage the overall quai- mixed wastes.
ity of our environment. (9) It is the state's goal to achieve a fifty percent re-
(3) Considerations of natural resource limitations, eh- cycling rate by 1995.
ergy shortages, economics and the environment make (I0) Steps should be taken to make recycling at least
necessary the development and implementation of solid as affordable and convenient to the ratepayer as mixed
waste recovery and/or recycling plans and programs, waste disposal.
(4) Waste reduction must become a fundamental (11) It is necessary to compile and maintain adequate
strategy of solid waste management. It is thcrcforc nec- data on the types and quantities of solid waste that are
_~__~_ry to change manufacturing and purchasing prac- being generated and to monitor how the various types of
tices and waste generation behaviors to reduce the solid waste are being managed.
amount of waste that becomes a governmental (12) Vehicle batteries should be recycled and the dis-
responsibility, posal of vehicle batteries into landfills or incinerators
(5) Source separation of waste must become a funds- should be discontinued.
mental strategy of solid waste management. Collection (13) Excessive and nonrecyclable packaging of pro-
and handling strategies should have, as an ultimate goal, ducts should be avoided.
the source separation of all materials with resource value (14) Comprehensive education should be conducted
or environmental hazard, throughout the state so that people are informed of the
(6) (a) It is the responsibility of every person to mini- need to reduce, source separate, and recycle solid waste.
mize his or her production of wastes and to separate re- (15) Ail governmental entities in the state should set
cyclable or hazardous materials from mixed waste, an example by implementing aggressive waste reduction
(b) It is the responsibility of state, county, and city and recycling programs at their workplaces and by put-
governments to provide for a waste management infra- chasing products that are made from recycled materials
structure to fully implement waste reduction and source and are recyclable.
separation strategies and to process and dispose of re- (16) To ensure the safe and efficient operations of
maining wastes in a manner that is environmentally safe solid waste disposal facilities, it is necessary for operat-
and economically sound. It is further the responsibility ors and regulators of landfills and incinerators to receive
of state, county, and city governments to monitor the training and certification.
cost-effectiveness and environmental safety of (17) It is necessary to provide adequate funding to all
combusting separated waste~ processing mixed waste, levels of government so that successful waste reduction
and recycling programs, and recycling programs can be implemented.
(c) It is the responsibility of county and city govern- (18) The development of stable and expanding mar-
ments to assume primary responsibility for solid waste kets for recyclable materials is critical to the long-term
management and to develop and implement aggressive success of the state's recycling goals. Market develop-
and effective waste reduction and source separation ment must be encouraged on a state, regional, and ns-
strategies, tional basis to maximize its effectiveness. The state shall
(d) It is the responsibility of state-government to eh- assume primary responsibility for the development of a
sure that local governments are providing adequate multifaceted market development program to carry out
source reduction and separation opportunities and incen- the purposes of *this act.
rives to all, including persons in both rural and urban (19) There is an imperative need to anticipate, plan
areas, and nonresidential waste generators such as com- for, and accomplish effective storage, control, recovery,
mercial, industrial, and institutional entities, recognizing and recycling of discarded tires and other problem
the ne. cd to provide flexibility to accommodate differing wastes with the subsequent conservation of resourc~ and
ICh. 70.95 RCW-~p 21 ( 1990 L~ws)
Solid Waste Mnlont. Reduction and Recycling ?0.95.040
energy. [1989 c 431 § 1:1985 c 345 § i; 1984 c 123 § 1; (11) 'Landfill' means a disposal facility or part of a
1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 § I; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 1.] facility at which solid waste is placed in or on land and
*Roiser's note: For codification of 'this act' [1989 ¢ 431], ~ which is not a land treatment facility.
Codification Tabl¢~, Volume 0. (1 2) 'Local government' means a city, town, or
county.
RCW 70.95.020 Purpose. The purpose of this chap- (13) 'Person' means individual, firm, association, to-
ter is to establish a comprehensive state-wide program partnership, political subdivision, government agency,
for solid waste handling, and solid waste recovery municipality, industry, public or private corporation, or
and/or recycling which will prevent land, air. and water- any other entity whatsoever.
pollution and conserve the natural, economic, and energy (14) ' Recyclable materials' means those solid wastes
resources of this state. To this end it is the purpose of that are separated for recycling or,re.use, such as papers,
this chapter: metals, and glass, that are identified as recyclable mate-
(l) To assign primary responsibility for'adequate solid' rial pursuant to a local comprehensive solid waste plan.
waste handling to local government, reserving to the Prior to the adoption of the local comprehensive solid
state,, howe, er, those functions necessary to assure effec- waste plan, adopted pursuanl to RCW 70.95.110(2), lo-
tire programs throughout the state; ..... cai governments may identify recyclable materials by
(2) To provide for adequate planning for solid waste ordinance from July 23, 1989~
handling by local government; (15) 'Recycling' means transforming or remanufac-
(3) To provide for the adoption and enforcement of turing waste materials into usable or marketable materi-
basic minimum performance standards for solid waste als for use other than landfill disposal or incineration.
handling; (16) 'Solid waste' or 'wastes' means all putrescible
(4) To provide technical and financial assistance to and nonputrescible solid and semisolid wastes including,
local governments in the planning, development, and but not limited to, garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial
conduct of solid waste handling programs; wastes, swill, demolition and construction wastes, aban-
(5) To encourage storage, proper disposal, and recy- doned vehicles or parts thereof, and recyclable materials.
cling of discarded vehicle tires and to stimulate private (17) 'Solid waste handling' means the management,
recycling programs throughout the state, storage, collection, transportation, treatment, utilization,
It is the intent of the legislature that local govern- processing, and final disposal of solid wastes, including
merits be encouraged to use the experti~ of private in- the recovery and recycling of materials from solid
dustry and to contract with private industry to the fullest wastes, the recovery of energy resources from solid
extent possible to carry out solid waste recovery and/or wastes or the conversion of the energy in solid wastes to
recycling programs. [1985 c 345 § 2; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. more useful forms or combinations thereof.
c 41 § 2; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 2.] (18) 'Source separation' means the separation of dif-
ferent kinds of solid waste at the place where the waste
RCW 70.95,030 Definitions. As used in this chapter, originates.
unl~s the context indicates otherwise: (19) 'Vehicle' includes every device physically eapa-
(1) 'City' means every incorporated city and town. ble of being moved upon a public or private highway,
(2) 'Commission' means the utilities and transports- road, street, or watercourse and in, upon, or by which
tion commission, any person or property is or may be transported or
(3) 'Committee' means the state solid waste advisory drawn upon a public or private highway, road, street, or
committee, watercourse, except devices moved by human or animal
(4) 'Department' means the department of ecology, power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
{5) 'Director' means thc director of thc department (20) 'Waste reduction' means reducing the amount
of ecology, or toxicity of waste generated or reusing materials.
(6) 'Disposal site' means thc location where any final [1989 c 431 § 2:1985 c 345 § 3; 1984 c 123 § 2; 1975-
treatment, utilization, processing, or deposit of solid '76 2nd ex.s. c 41 § 3; 1970 cx.s. c 62 § 60; 1969 ex.s. c
waste occurs. 134 § 3.]
(7) 'Energy recovery' means a process operating un-
Solid waste disposal Powctz and duties of state board of health as
der federal and state environmental laws and regulations to environmental contaminants: RCW 43.20.050.
for converting solid waste into usable energy and for re-
ducing the volume of solid waste. RCW 70.95.040 Solid waste advisory commit-
(8) 'Functional standards' means criteria for solid tee. Member~ Meetings Travel exi~ns~
waste handling expressed in terms of expected perform- 'Governor's award of excellence.' (1) There is created a
ance or solid waste handling functions, solid waste advisory committee to provide consultation to
(9) 'Incineration' means a process of reducing the the department of ecology concerning matters covered
volume of solid waste operating under federal and state by this chapter. The committee shall adviso- on the de-
environmental laws and regulations by use of an eh- velopment of programs and regulations for solid and
closed device using controlled flame combustion, dangerous waste handling, resource recovery, and recy-
(10) 'Jurisdictional health department' means city, cling, and shall supply recommendations concerning
county, city--county, or district public health methods by which existing solid and dangerous waste
department, handling, resource recovery, and recycling practices and
(1990 Laws) [Ch. 70.95 RC%V~ 31
70.95.1140 Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling -
the laws authorizing them may be supplemented and (3) Pollution o£ surface and ground waters (coordi-
improved, nated with the regulations of the department of
(2) The committee shall consist of eleven members, ecology).
including the assistant director for the division of solid (4) Hazards to service or disposal workers or to the
waste management within the department. The director public.
shall appoint ten members with due regard to the inter- (5) Prevention of littering.
ests of the public, local government, agriculture, indus- (6) Adequacy and adaptability of disposal sites to
try, public health, and thc refuse removal and resource population served.
recovery industries. The director shall include among his (7) Design and operation of disposal sites.
ten appointees representatives of activities from which (8) Recovery and/or recycling of solid waste. [1975-
dangerous wastes arise and the Washington state '76 2nd ex.s. c 41 § 4; 1969 ex.s.'c,13.4 § 7.]
patrol's hazardous materials technical advisory commit-
tee. The term of appointment shall be determined by the RCW 70.95.075 Implementation of standards
director. The committee shall elect its own chairman and Assessment Analyses Proposals. In order to im-
meet at least four times a year, in accordance with such plement the minimum functional standards for solid
rules of procedure as it shall establish. Members shall - waste handling, evaluate the effectiveness of the mini-
receive no compensation for their services but shall be mum functional standards, evaluate the cost of imple-
reimbursed their travel expenses while engaged in busi- mentation, and develop a mechanism to finance the
ness of the committee in accordance with RCW 43.03- implementation, the department shall prepare:
.050 and 43.03.060 as now existing or hereafter (1) An assessment of local health agencies' informa-
amended, tion on all existing permitted'landfill sites, including (a)
(3) The committee shall each year recommend to the measures taken and facilities installed at each landfill to
governor a recipient for a 'governor's award of excel- mitigate surface water and ground water contamination,
lence' which the governor shall award for outstanding (b) proposed measures taken and facilities to be con-
achievement by an industry, company, or individual in structed at each landfill to mitigate surface water and
the area of hazardous waste or solid waste management, ground water contamination, and (c) the costs of such
[1997 c 115 § 1; 1982 c 108 § 1; 1977 c 10 § I. Prior: measures and facilities;
1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 § 9; 1975-'76 2nd ex_s. c 34 § (2) An analysis of the effectiveness of the minimum
160; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 4.] functional standards for new landfills in lessening sur-
face water and ground water contamination, and a com-
ElTective date Severability 1975-'76 2nd ex.r. c 34: Sec
notes following RCW 2.08.115. parison with the effectiveness of the prior standards;
(3) An analysis of the costs of conforming with thc
RCW 70.95.050 Solid waste advisory commit- new functional standards for new landfills compared
t:.:. Staff services and facilities. The department shall with the costs of conforming to the prior standards; and
furnish neces__mry staff services and facilities required by (4) Proposals for methods of financing the costs of
the solid waste advisory committee. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § conforming with the new functional standards. [1986 c
5.1 81 § 14
RCW 70.95.060 Standards for solid waste hen= RCW 70.95.080 County comprehensive solid waste
dling Areas. The department in accordance with management plan Joint plans Duties of cities.
procedures prescribed by the Administrative Procedure Each county within the state, in cooperation with the
Act, chapter 34.05 RCW, as now or hereafter amended, various cities located within such county, shall prepare a
may adopt such minimum functional standards for solid coordinated, comprehensive solid waste management
waste handling as it deems appropriate. The department plan. Such plan may cover two or more counties.
in adopting such standards may classify areas of the Each city shall:
state with respect to population density, climate, geol- (1) Prepare and deliver to the county auditor of the
ogy, and other relevant factors bearing on solid waste county in which it is located its plan for its own solid
disposal standards. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 6.] waste management for integration into the comprehen-
sive county plan; or
RCW 70.95.070 Review of standards prior to adop- (2) Enter into an agreement with the county pursuant
tion Revisions, additions and modifications Fac- to which the city shall participate in preparing a joint
tors. The solid waste advisory committee shall review city-county plan for solid waste management; or
prior to adoption and shall recommend revisions, addi- (3) Authorize the county to prepare a plan for the
tions, and modifications to the minimum functional city's solid waste management for inclusion in the corn-
standards governing solid waste handling relating, but prehensive county plan.
not limited to, the following: Two or more cities may prepare a plan for inclusion in
(1) Vector production and sustenance, the county plan. With prior notification of-its home
(2) Air pollution (coordinated with regulations of the county of its intent, a city in one county may enter into
department of ecology), an agreement with a city in an adjoining county, or with
an adjoining county, or both, to prepare a joint plan for
[Cb. 70.95 RC'W--p 41 (1990 Laws)
Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling 70.95~)
solid waste management to become part of the compre- (7) The waste reduction and recycling element shati
hensive plan of both counties, include the following:
After consultation with representatives of the cities (a) Waste reduction strategies:
and counties, the department shall establish a schedule (b) Source separation strategies, including:
for the development of the comprehensive plans for solid (i) Programs for the collection of source separated
waste management. In preparing such a schedule, the materials from residences in urban and rural areas. In
department shall take into account the probable cost of urban areas, these programs shall include collection of
such plans to the cities and counties, source separated recyclable materials from residential
Local governments shall not be required to include a dwellings, unless the department approves an alternative
hazardous waste element in their solid waste manage- program, according to the criteria in the planning
ment plans. [1985 c 448 § 17; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 8.] guidelines. Such criteria shall !ncl,ud.e: Anticipated re-
.~'~iUty 19g5 c ~4g: ~: note follow, lng RCW 70.105.005. covery rates and lcvcls of public participation, availabil~
· ity of environmentally sound disposal capacity, access to
RCW 70.95.090 County -,nd city comprehensive markets for recyclable materials, unreasonable cost im-
solid waste amnagement plar~ Contents. Each county pacts on the ratepayer over the six-year planning period,
and city comprehensive solid waste management plan utilization of environmentally sound waste reduction and
shall include the following: recycling technologies, and other factors as appropriate.
(1) A detailed inventory and description of all existing In rural areas, these programs shall include but not be
solid waste handling facilities including an inventory of limited to drop-off boxes, buy-back centers, or a combi-
any deficiencies in meeting current solid waste handling nation of both, at each solid waste transfer, processing,
needs, or disposal site, or at locations convenient to the resi-
(2) The estimated long-range needs for solid waste dents of the county. The drop--off boxes and buy-back
handling facilities projected twenty years into the future, centers may be owned or operated by public, nonprofit,
(3) A program for the orderly development of solid or private persons;
waste handling facilities in a manner consistent with the (ii) Programs to monitor the collection of source sep-
plans for the entire county which shall: arated waste at nonresidential sites where there is suffi-
(a) Meet the minimum functional standards for solid cient density to sustain a program:
waste handling adopted by the department and all laws (iii) Programs to collect yard waste, if the county or
and regulations relating to air and water pollution, fire city submitting the plan finds that there are adequate
prevention, flood control, and protection of public markets or capacity for composted yard waste within or
health; near the service area to consume the majority of the
(b) Take into account the 'comprehensive land use material collected; and
plan of each jurisdiction; (iv) Programs to educate and promote the concepts of
(c) Contain a six year construction and capital acqui- waste reduction and recycling;
sition program for solid waste handling facilities; and (c) Recycling strategies, including a description of
(d) Contain a plan for financing both capital costs markets for recyclables, a review of waste generation
and operational expenditures of the'proposed solid waste trends, a description of waste composition, a discussion
management system, and description of existing programs and any additional
(4) A program for surveillance and control, programs needed to assist public and private sector re-
(5) A current inventory and description of solid waste cycling, and an implementation schedule for the desig-
collection needs and operations within each respei~tiv6 nation of specific materials to be collected for recycling,
jurisdiction which shall include: and for the provision of recycling collection services;
(a) Any franchise for solid waste collection granted by (d) Other information the county or city submitting
the plan determines is neces__~ry.
the utilities and transportation commission in the
spective jurisdictions including the name of the holder of (8) An assessment of the plan's impact on the costs of
the franchise and the address of his or her place of busi- solid waste collection. The assessment shall be prepared
ness and the area covered by the franchise; in conformance with guidelines established by the utili-
(b) Any city solid w~ste operation within the county ties and transportation commission. The commission
and the boundaries of such operation; shall cooperate with the Washington state association of
(c) The population density of each area serViced by a counties and the association of Washington cities in es-
city operation or by a franchised operation within the tablishing such guidelines.
respective jurisdictions: (9) A review of potential areas that meet the criteria
(d) The projected solid waste collection needs for the as outlined in RCW 70.95.165. [1989 c 431 § 3:1984 c
respective jurisdictions for the next six years. 123 § 5:1971 exes. c 293 § 1:1969 ex.s. c 134 § 9.]
(6) A comprehensive waste reduction and recycling Certain provisions not to detract from utilities and transportation
element that, in accordance with the priorities estal> commission powers, duties, and functions: RCW 80.01,300.
iished in RCW 70.95.010, provides programs that (a)
reduce the amount of waste generated, (b) provide in- RCW 70.95,092 County and city comprehensive
contives and mechanisms for source separation, and (c) solid waste amtmgement plaa.~ Levels of service, re-
establish recycling opportunitie~ for the source separated ducfion and recycling. Levels of service shall be defined
w~.ste.
(1990 Laws) [C~. 70.95 RC'W--~p 5].
'70.95.092 Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling
in the waste reduction and recycling element of each Io- assistance including, but not limited to, planning guide-
cai comprehensive solid waste management plan and lines, in the preparation, review, and revision of solid
shall include the services set forth in RCW 70.95.090. In waste management plans required by this chapter.
determining which service level is provided to residential Guidelines prepared under this section shall be consis-
and nonresidential waste generators in each community, tent with the provisions of this chapter. Guidelines for
counties and cities shall develop' clear criteria for desig- the preparation of the waste reduction and recycling el-
hating areas as urban or rural. In designating urban ar- ement of the comprehensive solid waste management
e. as, local governments shall consider the planning plan shall be completed by the department by March 15,
guidelines adopted by the department, total population, 1990. These guidelines shall provide recommendations to
population density, and any applicable land use or utility local government on materials to be considered for des-
service plans. [1989 c 431 § 4.] ignation as recyclable materials, The state solid waste
management plan prepared pur~uafit to RCW 70.95.260
RCW 70.95.094 County and city comprehensive shall be consistent with these guidelines.
solid waste management plans Review and approval (2) The department shall be responsible for develop-
process. (1) Thc dcpartmcnt and local govcrnmcnts pre- mcat and implcmcntation of a comprehensive state-wide
paring pla.ns arc cncouraged to work cooperatively dur- public information program designed to encourage waste
lng plan devclopmcnt. Each county and city prcparinga reduction, source separation, and recycling by thc public.
comprchcnsivc solid waste management plan shall sub- Thc departmcnt shall operate a toll free hotlinc to pro-
mit a preliminary draft plan to thc department for tech- vide thc public information on waste reduction and
nical rcvicw. Thc dcpartmcnt shall rcvicw and commcnt recycling.
on thc draft plan within one hundred twenty days of rc- (3) Thc department shall provide technical assistance
ceipt. Thc dcpartmcnt's comments shall statc specific to local governments in the development and disscmina-
actions or revisions that must be completed for plan tion of informational materials and related activities to
approval, assure recognition of unique local waste reduction and
(2) Each final draft solid wastc managcmcnt plan recycling programs.
shall be submitted to thc department for approval. Thc (4) Local governments shall make all materials and
department will limit its comments on thc final draft information dcvcloped with thc assistance grants pro-
plans to those issues idcntified during its review of thc vided under RCW 70.95.130 availablc to thc department
draft plan and any other changes made between submit- for potential usc in other areas of thc state. [1989 e 431
tal of thc preliminary draft and final draft plans. Disap- § 6; 1984 c 123 § 6; 1969 cx_s. c 134 § 10.]
proval of the local comprehensive solid waste
management plan shall be supported by specific find- RCW 70.9S.110 Maintenance of platm Review,
lags. A final draft plan shall be deemed approved if thc revision: Implementation of source separation pro-
department does not disapprove it within forty-five days grams. (1) The comprehensive county solid waste man-
of receipt, agement plans and any comprehensive city solid waste
(3) If the department disapproves a plan or any plan management plans prepared in accordance with RCW
amendments, the submitting entity may appeal the deci- 70.95.080 shall be maintained in a e~rrent condition and
sion under the procedures of Part IV of chapter 34.05 reviewed and revised periodically by counties and cities
R. CW. An administrative law judge shall preside over as may be required by the department. Upon each re-
the appeal. The appeal shall be limited to review of the view such plans shall be extended to show long-range
specific findings which supported the disapproval under needs for solid waste handling facilities for twenty years
subsection (2) of this section. [1989 c 431 § 8.] in the future, and a revised construction and capital ac-
quisition program for six years in the' future. Each re-
RCW 70.9S.096 Utilities and transportation eom- vised solid waste management plan shall be submitted to
mission to review local plan's as.se~sment of ca}st impacts the department.
on rates. Upon receipt, the department shall immedi- Each plan shall be reviewed and revised within five
atcly provide thc utilities and transportation commission years of July 1, 1984, and thereafter shall be reviewed,
with a copy of each preliminary draft local compreben- and revised if nec~,.~ry according to the schedule pro-
sire solid waste management plan. Within forty-five vided in subsection (2) of this section.
days after receiving a plan, the commission shall have (2) Cities and counties preparing solid waste manage-
reviewed the plan's assessment of solid waste collection ment plans shall submit the waste reduction and recy-
cost impacts on rates charged by solid waste collection cling element required in RCW 70.95.090 and any
companies regulated under chapter 81.77 RCW and revisions to other elements of its comprehensive solid
shall advise the county or city submitting the plan and waste management plan to the department no later than:
the department of the probable effect of the plan's rec- (a) July 1, 1991, for class one areas;
ommendations on those rates. [1989 c 431 § 12.] (b) July 1, 1992, for class two areas: and
(c) July 1, 1994, for class three areas. -
RCW 70.95.100 Technical assistance for plan prep- Thereafter, each plan shall be reviewed and revised, if
aratior- Guideline__. Informational materials and necessary, at least every five years. Nothing in *this act
programs. (1) The department or thc commission, as ap- shall prohibit local governments from submitting a plan
propriate, shall provide to counties and cities technical prior to thc dates listed in this subsection.
[Clx. 70.95 RC'W---p 6] (1990 Laws)
Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling 70.95.165
(3) The classes of areas are defined as follows: planning grant. The contract shall include such provi-
(a) Class one areas are the counties of Spokane, sions as the director may deem necessary to assure the
Snohomish, King, Pierce, and Kitsap and all the cities proper expenditure of such funds including allocations
therein, made to cities. The sum allocated to a county shall be
(b) Class two areas are all other counties located west paid to the treasurer of such county. [1969 ex.s. c 134 §
of the crest of the Cascade mountains and all the cities 15.]
therein.
(c) Class three areas are the counties east of the crest RCW 70.95.160 Local board of health regulations to
of the Cascade mountains and all the cities therein, ex- implement the comprehensive play- Section not to be
cept for Spokane county, construed to authorize counties to Operate system. Each
(4) Cities and counties shall begin implementing thc county, or any city, or jurisdictional board of health
programs to collect source separated materials no later shall adopt regulations or .ordinahc~ governing solid
than one year following the adoption and approval of the waste handling implementing the. comprehensive solid
waste reduction and recycling element and these pro- waste management plan covering storage, collection,
grams shall be fully implemented within two years of transportation, treatment, utilization, proce~ing and fi-
approval. [1989 c 431 § 5; 1984 c 123 § 7; 1969 ex.s. c hal disposal including but not limited to the issuance of
134 § 11.] permits and the establishment of minimum levels and
eRevlser's oot~. For codification of 'this act' [1989 c 431]. see types of service for any aspect of solid waste handling.
Codification Tables, Volume 0. County regulations or ordinances adopted'regarding lev-
els and types of service shall not apply within the limits
RCW 70.95.130 Financial aid to counties and cities, of any city where thc city has by local ordinance deter-
Any county may apply to the department on a form mined that the county shall not exercise such powers
prescribed thereby for financial aid for the preparation within the corporate limits of the city. Such regulations
of the comprehensive county plan for solid waste man- or ordinancc~ shall assure that solid waste storage and
agement required by RCW 70.95.080. Any city electing disposal facilities are located, maintained, and operated
to prepare an independent city plan, a joint city plan, or in a manner so as properly to protect the public health,
a joint county-city plan for solid waste management for prevent air and water pollution, are consistent with the
inclusion in the county comprehensive plan may apply priorities established in RCW 70.95.010, and avoid the
for financial aid for such purpose through the county, creation of nuisances. Such regulations or ordinances
Every city application for financial aid for planning shall may be more stringent than the minimum functional
be fried with the county auditor and shall be included as standards adopted by the department. Regulations or
a part of the county's application for financial aid. Any ordinances adopted by counties, cities, or jurisdictional
city preparing an independent plan shall provide for dis- boards of health shall be filed with the department.
posal sites wholly within its jurisdiction. Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize
The department shall allocate to the counties and cit- the operation of a solid waste collection system by coun-
ica applying for financial aid for planning, such funds as tica. [1989 c 431 § 10; 1988 c 127 § 29; 1969 ex.s. c 134
may be available pursuant to legislative appropriations § 16.]
or from any federal grants for such purpose.
The department shall determine priorities and allocate RCW 70.95.163 Local health departments may con-
available funds among the counties and cities applying tract with the department of ecology. Any jurisdictional
for aid according to criteria established by regulations of health department and the department of ecology may
the department considering population, urban develop- enter into an agreement providing for the exercise by the
ment, environmental effects of waste disposal, existing department of ecology of any power that is specified in
waste handling practices, and the local justification of the contract and that is granted to the jurisdictional
their proposed expenditures. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 13.] health department under this chapter. However, the
· jurisdictional health department shall have the approval
RCW 70.95.140 Matching requirements. Counties of the legislative authority or authorities it serves before
and cities shall match their planning aid allocated by the entering into any such agreement with the department of
director by an amount not less than twenty-five percent ecology. [1989 c 431 § 16.]
of the estimated cost of such planning. Any federal
planning aid made directly to a county or city shall not RCW 70.95.165 Solid waste disposal facility sit-
be considered either a state or local contribution in de- ing Site review Local solid waste advisory com-
termining local matching requirements. Counties and mitt~ Membership. (1) Each county or city siting a
~.ities may meet their share of planning costs by cash solid waste disposal facility shall review each potential
nd contributed services. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 14.] site for conformance with the standards as set by the
department for:
RCW 70,95.150 Contracts with counties to assure (a) Geology; '
proper expenditures, Upon the allocation of planning (b) Ground water;
funds as provided in RCW 70.95.130, the department (c) Soil;
shall enter into a contract with each county receiving a (d) Flooding;
(e) Surface water;
(1990 Laws) [Ch. 70.95 RCq, V--p 7]
70.95.165 Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling
(f) Slope; (3) The jurisdictional health department shall inve.sti-
(g) Cover material; gate every application as may be necessary to determine
(h) Capacity; whether an existing or proposed site and facilities meet
(i) Climatic factors; all applicable laws and regulations, and conforms with
(j) Land use; the approved comprehensive solid waste handling plan,
(k) Toxic air emissions; and and complies with ali zoning requirements.
(1) Other factors as determined by the department. (4) When the jurisdictional health department finds
(2) The standards in .subsection (1) of this section that the permit should be issued, it shall issue such per-
shall be designed to use the best available technology to mit. Every application shall be approved or disapproved
protect the environment and human health, and shall be within ninety days after its receipt by the jurisdictional
revised periodically to reflect new technology and health department.
information. (5) The jurisdictional boa'rd ~f I~ealth may establish
(3) Each county shall establish a local s61id Waste ad- reasonable fees for permits and renewal of permits. All
visory committee to assist in the development of pro- permit fees collected by the health department shall be
grams and policies concerning solid waste handling and deposited in the treasury and to the account from which
disposal and to review and comment upon proposed the health department's operating expenses are paid.
rules, policies, or ordinances prior to their adoption. [1988 c 127 § 30; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 18.]
Such committees shall consist of a minimum of nine
members and shall represent a balance of interests in- RCW 70.95.185 Permit for solid waste disposal site
eluding, but not limited to, citizens, public interest .or facilities Review by department Appeal of is-
groups, business, the waste management industry, and suance Validity of permits issued after June 7, 1984.
local elected public officials. The members shall be ap- Every permit issued by a jurisdictional health depart-
pointed by the county legislative authority. A county or ment under RCW 70.95.180 shall be reviewed by the
city shall not apply for funds from the state and local department to ensure that the proposed site or facility
improvements revolving account, Waste Disposal Facili- conforms with:
ties, 1980, under chapter 43.99F RCW, for the prepara- (1) All applicable laws and regulations including the
tion, update, or major amendment of a comprehensive minimal functional standards for solid waste handling;
solid waste management plan unless the plan or revision and
has been prepared with the active assistance and partici- (2) The approved comprehensive solid waste manage-
pation of a local solid waste advisory committee. [1989 c ment plan.
431 § 11; 1984 c 123 § 4.] Thc department shall review thc permit within thirty
days after thc issuance of thc permit by the jurisdic-
RCW 70,95.170 Permit for solid waste disposal site tional health dcpartment. Thc department may appeal
or faeillti~_. Required. After approval of the comprc- thc issuance of the permit by thc jurisdictional health
hensive solid waste plan by the department no SOlid department to the pollution control hearings board, as
waste disposal site or disposal site facilities shall be described in chapter 43.21B RCW, for noncompliance
maintained, established, substantially altered, expanded, with subsection (1) or (2) of this section.
or improved until the county, city, or other person oper- No permit issued pursuant to RCW 70.95.180 after
sting such site has obtained a permit from the jurisdic- June 7, 1984, shall be considered valid unless it has been
tional health department pursuant to the provisions of reviewed by the department. [1984 c 123 § 8.]
RCW 70.95.180. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 17.]
RCW 70.95.190 Permit for solid wnste disposnl site
RCW 70.95.180 Permit for solid waste disposal site or faciliti~.. Renewal Appeal Validity of re-
or facilit~ Applications, fee. (1). Applications for newaL Every permit for a solid waste disposal site shall
permits to operate new or existing solid waste disposal be renewed annually on a date to be established by the
sites shall be on forms prescribed by the department and jurisdictional health department having jurisdiction of
shall contain a description of the proposed and existing the site. Prior to renewing a permit, the health depart-
facilities and operations at the site, plans and specifics- ment shall conduct such inspections as it deems necea-
tiona for any new or additional facilities to be con- sary to assure that the solid waste disposal site and
structed, and such other information as the jurisdictional facilities located on the site meet minimum functional
health department may deem necessary in order to de- standards of the department, applicable local regula-
termine whether the site and solid waste disposal facili- tions, and are not in conflict with the approved solid
ties located thereon will comply with local and state waste management plan. The department shall review
regulations, and may appeal the renewal as set forth for the approval
(2) Upon receipt of an application for a permit to es- of permits in RCW 70.95.185.
tablish, alter, expand, improve, or continue in use a solid A renewal issued under this section shall not be con-
waste disposal site, the jurisdictional health department sidered valid unless it has been reviewed by t-he depart-
shall refer one copy of the application to the department ment. [1984 c 123 § 9; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 19.]
which shall report its findings to the jurisdictional health
department. RCW 70.95.200 Permit for solid waste disposal site
or facilities Suspension. Any permit for a solid waste
[CK. 70.95 RCW---p 81 (1990 Laws)
Solid Wa_ate Mnl~mt. .. Reduction and Recycling 70.~:~,.2~~
disposal site issued as provided herein shall be subject to (ii) Requirements that moneys be placed in the re
suspension at any time the jurisdictional health depart- serve account on a regular basis and that the reserve ac-
meat determines that the site or the solid waste disposal count be kept separate from all other accounts; and
facilities located on the site are being operated in viola- (iii) Procedures for the department to verify that ~de-
tion of this chapter, or the regulations of the department quate sums are deposited in the reserve account; and
or local laws and regulations. [19.69 ex.s. c 134 § 20.] (c) Methods to ensure that other types of financial
assurance provided in accordance with subsection (I) of
RCW 70.95.210 Hearing Appeal. Whenever the this section are adequate to cover the costs of closing the
jurisdictional health department denies a permit or sus- facility. [1985 c 436 § 1.]
pends a permit for a solid waste disposal site, it shall,
upon request of the applicant or holder of the permit, RCW 70.95.220 Financial.-ai, d. to jurisdietio~iai
grant a heating on such 'denial or suspension within health departments Applications Allocations.
thirty days after the request therefor is made. Notice of Any jurisdictional health department may apply to the
the hearing shall be given all interested parties including department for financial aid for the enforcement of rules
the county or city having jurisdiction over the site and and regulations promulgated under this chapter. Such
the department. Within thirty days after the hearing, the application shall contain such information, including
health officer shall notify the applicant or the holder of . budget and program description, as may be prescribed
the permit in writing of his determination and the rea- by regulations of the department.
sons therefor. Any party aggrieved by such determina- After receipt of such applications the department may
tion may appeal to the pollution control hearings board' allocate available funds according to criteria established
by filing with thc hearings board a notice of appeal by regulations of the department considering population.
within thirty days after receipt of notice of the determi- urban development, thc number of thc disposal sites, and
nation of the health officer. The hearings board shall geographical area.
hold a hearing in accordance with the provisions of the The sum allocated to a jurisdictional health depart-
Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW, as meat shall be paid to the treasury from which the oper-
now or hereafter amended. [1987 c 109 § 21; 1969 ex.s. ating expenses of the health department are paid, and
c 134 § 21.] shall be used exclusively for inspections and administra..
Pm~m~,~Simrt tit,~c Coas~r~ctie-' ~nle~-~Severnbil- tive expenses nec~__~ry to enforce applicable regulations.
ity Captions: 1987 ¢ 109: See notes following RCW [1969ex.s.c 134§ 22.]
43.21B.001.
RCW 70.95.230 Financial aid to jurisdictional
RCW 70.95.215 Landfill disposal facilit~ Re- health departments Matching funds requirements.
serve accounts required by July I, 1987 Excep- The jurisdictional health department applying for state
tion Rules. (1) By July 1, 1987, each holder or assistance for the enforcement of this chapter shall
applicant of a permit for a landfill disposal facility is- match such aid allocated by the department in an
sued under this chapter shall establish a reserve account amount not less than twenty-five percent of thc total
to cover the costs of closing thc facility in accordance amount spent for such enforcement activity during thc
with state and federal regulations. Thc account shall be year. Thc local share of enforcement costs may be met
designed to ensure that there will be adequate revenue by cash and contributed services. [1969 cx.s. c 134 §
available by the projected date of closure. Landfill dis- 23.]
posal facilities maintained on private property for the
sole usc of the entity owning the site shall not be re- RCW 70.95.240 Unlawful to dump or deposit solid
quircd to establish a rescrvc account if, to thc satisfac- waste without permit. After thc adoption of regulations
tion of thc department, they providc anothcr form of or ordinances by any county, city, or jurisdictional board
financial assurance adequate to comply with thc re- of health providing for the issuance of permits as pro-
quircments of this section, vided in RCW 70.95.160, it shall bc unlawful for any
(2) By July 1, 1986, thc department shall adopt rules person to dump or deposit or permit thc dumping or de-
under chapter 34.05 RCW to implement subsection (1) positing of any solid waste onto or under the surface of
of this section. Thc rules shall include but not be limited thc ground or into the waters of this state except at a
to: solid waste disposal site for which there is a valid permit:
(a) Methods tO estimate closure costs, including Provided, That nothing herein shall prohibit a person
postclosure monitoring, pollution prevention measures, from dumping or depositing solid waste resulting from
and any other procedures required under state and fed- his own activities onto or under the surface of ground
eral regulations; owned or leased by him when such action docs not vio-
(b) Methods to ensure that reserve accounts receive latc statutes or ordinances, or create a nuisance. Any
adequate funds, including: person violating this section shall be guilty of. a misdc-
(i) R. equircmcnts that the reserve account be gcncr- meanor. [1969 cx.s. c 134 § 24.]
ated by user fees. However, the department may waive
this requirement for existing landfills if user fees would RCW 70.95.250 Name appealing on waste mate-
be prohibitively high; rial Presumption. Whenever solid wastes dumped in
violation of RCW 70.95.240 contain three or more items
(1990 Laws) ICh. 70.95 RCW---p 9]
70.95.250 Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling
bearing the name of one individual, there shall be a re- be adopted no later than October 1990. The plan shall
buttable presumption that the individual whose name be revised regularly after its initial completion so that
appears on such items committed the unlawful act of local governments revising local comprehensive solid
dumping. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 25.] waste management plans can take advantage of the data
and analysis in the state plan.
RCW 70.95.255 Disposal of municipal sewage (3) Provide technical assistance to any person as well
sludge or septic tank sludge prohibited Exemp- as to cities, counties, and industries.
tioas Uses of sludge material permitted. After Janu- (4) Initiate, conduct, and support research, demon-
ary 1, 1988, the department of ecology may prohibit stration projects, and investigations, and coordinate re-
disposal of municipal sewage sludge or septic tank search programs pertaining to solid waste management
sludge (septage) in landfills for final disposal, except on systems.
a temporary, emergency basis, if the jurisdictional health (5) Develop state-wide ~arogran~s 'to increase public
department determines that a potentially unhealthful awareness of and participation in 'tire recycling, and to
circumstance exists. Beneficial uses of sludge in landfill stimulate and encourage local private tire recycling cea-
reclamation is acceptable utilization and not considered ters and public participation in tire recycling.
disposal. (6) May, under the provisions of the Administrative
The department of ecology shall adopt rules that pro- Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW, as now or hereafter
vide exemptions from this section on a case-by-case ha- amended, from time to time promulgate such rules and
sis. Exemptions shall be based on the economic regulations as are necessary to carry out the purposes of
infeasibility of using or disposing of the sludge material this chapter. [1989 c 431 § 9. Prior: 1985 c 345 § 8;
other than in a landfill. 1985 c 6 § 23; 1969 ex.s. c 134 § 26.]
Thc department of ecology, after consulting with rep- Sealy 1989 e 431: "The imstitutc for ur{~an and local studies at
resentatives from cities, counties, special purpose dis- Eastern Washington State University shall conduct a study of enforce-
trict~, and operators of septic tank pump-out services, merit of solid waste management laws and regulations as a ~omponent
shall adopt rules for the environmentally safe usc of of the 1990 state solid waste managerncnt plan. This study shall in-
municipal sewage sludge and scptage in this state, dude., but shall not lac limited to:
(I) A review of current state and local solid waste rules, require-
The department of ecology, after consulting with rep- m~ policies, and resources devoted to state and local so{id waste
resentatives from the pulp and papor industry and the onfor~mcat, and of thc effectiveness of these programs in promoting
food processing industry, may adopt rules for the envi- environmental health and public safety;,
ronmentally safe use of appropriate industrial sludges, (2) An examination of federal regulations and the latest propor, ed
amendments to th~ Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, in sub-
such as pulp and paper sludges or food processing title D of the code of federai regulations;
wastes, used to improve the texture or nutrient content (3) A reviem of regulatory approaches ~ by other states;
of soils. (4) A revi¢~ and evaluation of educational and technical assistanoe
Thc department of ecology, in conjunction with the programs related to enforcement;
(5) An inventory of regulatory compliance for all processing and
department of social and health services and thc depart- disposal facilities handling mixed solid waste:
mcat of agriculture, shall adopt rules establishing label- (6) A res4ew of thc role and cffoctiveness of other enforcement
lng and notification requirements for sludge material jurisdictions;
sold commercially or given away to thc public. The dc- (7) An evaluation of the ~ for r~le. fining institutional roles and
responsibilities for ~nfoc~mcnt of solid waste management law and
pertinent shall specify mandatory wording for labels and regulations in order to establish publi~ confidence in solid waste man-
notification to warn the public against improper usc of ageme, nt systems and ensure public protection: and
thc material. [1986 c 297 § 1.] (8) An evaluation of possible benefits in s~parating thc solid waste
planning and tochnicai assistan~ responsibilities from thc enforcement
RCW 70.95.260 Duties of department State responsibilities within tlR: department.' [1989 c 431 § 96.]
solid waste management plan Assistance Coor- RCW 70.95.263 Additional powers and duties of de-
clination Tire recycling. The department shall in ad-
partment. The department shall in addition to its other
dition to its other powers and duties: duties and powers under this chapter:
(1) Cooperate with the appropriate federal, state, in- (I) Prepare the following:
terstate and local unim of government and with appro- (a) a management system for recycling waste paper
priate private organizations in carrying out the generated by stateofficesand institutions in cooperation
provisions of this chapter, with such offices and institutions;
(2) Coordinate the development of a solid waste man- (b) an evaluation of existing and potential systems for
agement plan for all areas of the state in cooperation recovery of energy and materials from solid waste with
with local government, the department of community recommendations to affected governmental agencies as
development, and other appropriate state and regional to those systems which would be the most appropriate
agencies. The plan shall relate to solid waste manage- for implementation;
meat for twenty years in the future and shall be re- (c) a data management system to evaluate and assist
viewed biennially, revised as necessary, and extended so the progress of state and local jurisdictions and private
that perpetually the plan shall look to the future for industry in resource recovery;
twenty years as a guide in carrying out a state c, oordi-
(d) identification of potential markets, in cooperation
nated solid waste management program. The plan shall with private industry, for recovered resources and the
be developed into a single integrated document and shall
[Ch. 70.95 RC'W-~p 10] (1990 Laws)
Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recyclin~ 70.95.285
impact of the distribution of such resources on existing funds under chapter 43.99F RCW to disburse to local
markets; governments in developing solid waste recovery or recy-
(e) studies on methods of transportation, collection, cling projects. Priority shall be given to those projects
reduction, separation, and packaging which will encour- that use incineration of solid waste to produce energy
age more efficient utilization of existing waste recovery and to recycling projects. [1984 c 123 § 10.]
facilities;
(f) re, commendations on incentives, including state RCW 70.95.280 Determination of best solid waste
grants, loans, and other assistance, to local governments management practic~__. Department to develop method
which will encourage the recovery and recycling of solid to monitor waste stream Collectors to report quantity
wastes, and quality of waste Confidentiality of proprietary
(2) Provide technical information and assistance to information. The department of ecology shall determine
state and local jurisdictions, the public, and private in- the beat management practicc~ fdr' categories of solid
dustry on solid waste recovery and/or recycling., waste in accordance with the priority solid waste man-
(3) Procure and expend funds available from federal agement methods established in RCW 70.95.010. In or-
agencies and other sources to assist the implementation der to make this determination, the department shal~
by local governments of solid waste recovery and/or re- conduct a comprehensive solid waste stream analysis and
cycling programs, and projects, evaluation. Following establishment of baseline data re-
(4) Conduct necessary research and studies to carry suiting from an initial in-depth analysis of the waste
out the purposes of this chapter, stream, the department shall develop a less intensive
(5) Encourage and assist local governments and pti- method of monitoring the disposed waste stream includ-
rate industry to develop pilot solid waste recovery lng, but not limited to, changes in the amount of waste
and/or rccycling projects, generated and waste type. The department shall monitor
(6) Monitor, assist with research, and collect data for curbside collection programs and other waste segrega-
use in assessing feasibility for others to develop solid tion and disposal technologies to determine, to the extent
waste recovery and/or recycling projects, possible, the effectiveness of these programs in terms of
(7) Make periodic recommendations to the governor cost and participation, their applicability to other lo:a-
and the legislature on actions and policies which would tions, and their implications regarding rules adopted un-
further implement the objcctives of *this 1976 amenda- der this chapter. Persons who collect solid waste shall
tory act. [1975-'76 2.nd ex.s. c 41 § 5.] annually report to the department the types and quanti-
ties of solid waste that are collected and where it is
'~Rtniser's note: 'this 1976 arncndatory act' [1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c
41] cc~Lsts of amendments to RCW 70.93.020, 70.93.190, 70.95.010, delivered. The department shall adopt guidelines for re-
70.95.020, 70.95.030, 70.95.040, 70.95.070, and to RCW 70.95.263, porting and for keeping proprietary information confi-
70.95.265 and 70.95.267. dential. [1989 c 431 § 13; 1988 c 184 § 1.]
RCW 70.95.265 Department to cooperate with pub- Rccovcrnd'matcrials Uansportation. utilities and transportation com-
mission to adopt rules for relx~xing under RCW 70.95.280: RCW
lic and private departments, agencies and associations. 81.80.450.
The department shall work closely with the department
of trade and economic development, the department of RCW 70.95.285 Solid waste stream analysis. The
general administration, and with other state departments comprehensive, state-wide solid waste stream analysis
and agencies, the Washington state association of coun- under RCW 70.95.280 shall be based on representative
ties, thc association of Washington cities, and business solid wastc generation areas and solid waste generation
associations, to carry out thc objectives'and purposes of sources within the state. Thc following information and
*this 1976-amcndatory act. [1985 c 466 § 69:1975-'76 evaluations shall be included:
2nd cx.s. c 41 § 6.] (1) Solid waste generation rates for each category;
*Re~v's ~ote: For 'this 1976 amcndatory act,' see note following (2) The rate of recycling being achieved within thc
RCW 70.95.263. state for each category of solid waste;
Effective dar:. Se~erabiU~ 1985 e 466: Sen: notes following (3) ThC current and potential rates of solid waste re-
RCW 43.31.005. duction within thc state;
(4) A technological assessment of current solid waste
RCW 70.95.267 Department authorized to disburse reduction and recycling methods and systems, including
referendum 26 (chapter 43.83A RCW) fund for local cost/benefit analyses;
government solid waste projects. Thc dcpartmcnt is (5) An assessmcnt of thc feasibility of segregating
authorized to usc referendum 26 (chapter 43.83A solid waste at: (a) Thc original source, (b) transfer sta-
RCW) funds of thc Washington futures account to dis- tions, and (c) thc point of final disposal;
"ursc to local governments in developing solid waste re- (6) A review of methods that will increase thc rate of
avery and/or recycling projects. [1975-'76 2nd cx.s. c solid waste reduction; and
41 § 10.] (7) An assessment of new and existing tcT:hnologies
RCW 70.95.268 Department authorized to disburse that arc available for solid waste management including
an analysis of thc associated environmental risks and
funds under chapter 43,99F RCW for local government costs.
solid waste projects. Thc department is authorized to usc
(1990 Laws) [Ch. 70.95 RCNV-~p II]
70.95.285 ,~olJd Wasle Mngmt. Reduction s~nd Recycling
The data required by the analysis under this section (3) This section does not apply to the storage or de-
shall be kept current and shall be available to local gov- posit of vehicle tires in quantities deemed exempt under ._
ernments and the waste management industry. [1988 c rules adopted by the department of ecology under its
184 § 2.] functional standards for solid waste. [1985 c 345 § 4.]
RCW 70.95.290 Solid waste stream evaluation. (1) RCW 70.95.510 Fee on the retail sale of new re- .
Thc evaluation of the solid waste stream required in placement vehicle fires. There is levied a one dollar per
RCW 70.95.280 shall include the following elements: tire fee on the retail sale of new replacement vehicle
(a) Thc department shall determine which manage- tires for a period of five years, beginning October 1,
mcnt method for each category of solid waste will havc 1989. Thc fee imposed in this section shall be paid by
thc least cnvironmcntal impact; and thc buyer to thc scllcr, and each. *sc[let shall collect from
(b) Thc department shall evaluate thc costs of various thc buyer thc full amount Of thc fee. Thc fee collectcd
management options for each category of solid 'wastc, from the buycr by thc seller less thc ten percent amount
including a rcvicw of market availability, and shall takc retained by thc seller as provided in RCW 70.95.535
into consideration thc economic impact on affcctcd shall be paid to thc dcpartmcnt of rcvcnuc in accordance
partie~; with RCW 82.32.045. All other applicable provisions of
(c) Based on thc results of (a) and (b) of this subsec- chaptcr 82.32 RCW have full force and application with
lion, thc department shall dctcrminc thc best managc- respect to thc fee imposed under this section. Thc dc-
mcnt for each category of solid wastc. Diffcrcnt partmcnt of revenue shall administer this section.
managcmcnt mcthods for thc samc catcgories of waste For thc purposes of this section, 'new rcplacemcnt
may be developed for diffcrcnt parts of thc state, vchiclc tires' means tires that arc newly manufactured
(2) Thc dcpartmcnt shall givc priority to evaluating for vchiclc purposes and does not include retreaded ye-
categories of solid waste that, in relation to other cate- hiclc tires. [1989 c 431 § 92; 1985 c 345 § 5.]
gorie~ of solid waste, comprise a largc volumc of thc
solid waste stream or present a high potential of harm to RCW 70.95.520 Vehicle tire recycling account
human health. At a minimum thc following categories of Deposit of fimds. Thcrc is created an account within thc
waste shall be evaluated: state treasury to be known as thc vehicle tire recycling
(a) By January 1, 1989, yard waste and other biotic- account. All assessments and other funds collected or
· gradabic matcrials, paper products, disposable diapers, received under this chapter shall be deposited in thc vt-
and batteries; and hicle tire recycling account and used by the department
(b) By January 1, 1990, metals, glass, plastics, of ecology for administration and implementation of this
styrofoam or rigid lightweight cellular polystyrene, and chapter. After October l, 1989, thc department of revc-
tires. [1988 c 184 § 3.] hue shall deduct two percent from funds collected pur-
suant to RCW 70.95.510 for the purpose of
RCW 70.95.295 Analysis and evaluation to be incor- administering and collecting the fee from new replace-
porated in state solid waste management plan. The de- ment vehicle tire retailers. [1989 c 431 § 94; 1985 c 345 .
partment shall incorporate the information from the § 6.]
analysis and evaluation conducted under RCW 70.95-
.280 through 70.95.290 to the state solid waste manage- RCW 70.95.530 Vehicle tire recycling account .
merit plan under RCW 70.95.260. The plan shall be Use. Moneys in the account may be appropriated to the
revised periodically as the evaluation and analysis is up- department of ecology:
dated. [1988 c 184 § 4.] (I) To provide for funding to state and local govern-
merits for the removal of discarded vehicle tires from
RCW 70.95.500 Disposal of vehicle tires outside unauthorized tire dump sites;
designated area prohibited Penalty Exemption. (2) To accomplish thc other purposes of RCW
(I) No person may drop, deposit, discard, or otherwise 70.95.020(5); and
dispose of vehicle tires on any public property or private (3) To fund the study authorized in section 2, chapter
property in this state .or in the waters of this state 250, Laws of 1988.
whether from a vehicle or otherwise, including, but not In spending funds in the account under this section,
limited to, any public highway, public park, beach, the department of ecology shall identify communities
campground, forest land, recreational area, trailer park, with the most severe problems with waste tires and pro-
highway, road, street, or alley unless: vide funds first to those communities to remove accu-
(a) The property is designated by the state, or by any mulations of waste tires. [1988 c 250 § 1; 1985 c 345 §
of its agencies or political subdivisions, :for the disposal 7.]
of discarded vehicle tires; and
(b) The person is authorized to use the property for RCW 70.95.535 Disposition of fee. (1) Every person
such purpose, engaged in making retail sales of new replacement vehi-
(2) A violation of this section is punishable by a civil cie tires in this state shall retain ten percent of the col-
penalty, which shall not be less than two hundred dollars lected one dollar fee. The moneys retained may be used
nor more than two thousand dollars for each offense, for costs associated with the proper management of the
waste vehicle tires by the retailer.
ICh- 70.95 RCW--~ 121 (1990 Laws)
.,3olid Waste Mngmt.~Reduction and Recycling 70.95.630
(2) The department of ecology wilt administer the (1) Transportation of waste tires with an unlicensed
funds for the purposes specified in RCW 70.95.020(5) waste tire transporter; or
including, but not limited to: (2) Waste tire storage with an unlicensed owner or
(a) Making grants to local governments for pilot operator of a waste tire storage site. [1988 c 250 § 6.]
demonstration projects for on-site shredding and recy-
cling of tires from unauthorized dump sites; RCW 70.95.600 Educational material promoting
(b) Grants to local government for enforcement household waste reductiou and recycling. The department
programs; of ecology, at the request of a local government jurisdic-
(c) Implementation of a public information and edu- tion, may periodically provide educational material pro-
cation program to include posters, signs, and informa- moting household waste reduction and recycling to
tional materials to be distributed to retail tire sales and public and private refuse haulers. The educational mate-
tire service outlets; rial shall be distributed to.housel/olds receiving refuse
(d) Product marketing studies for recycled.tires and collection service by local governments or the refuse
alternatives to land disposal. [1989 c 431 § 93.] hauler providing service. Thc refuse hauler may distrib-
ute the educational material' by any means that assures
RCW 70.95.540 Cooperation with department to aid timely delivery.
tire recycling. To aid in thc state-wide tire recycling Reasonable expenses incurred in the distribution of
campaign, the legislature strongly encourages various this material shall be considered, for rate-making put-
industry organizations which arc active in resource recy- poses, as legitimate operating expenses of garbage and
cling efforts to provide active cooperation with the de- refuse haulers regulated under chapter 81.77 RCW.
partment of ecology so that additional technology can be [ 1988 c 175 § 3.]
dcvcloped for thc tire recycling campaign. [ 1985 c 345 § Effecti,e date 1988 ¢ 175: ~ note following RCW 43.19.537.
9.]
RCW 70.95.610 Battery disposal Restric-
RCW 70.95.550 Waste tir~. Definitions. Unless tion~ Violators subject to fit::. 'Vehicle battery"
the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in defined. (!) No person may knowingly dispose of a vehi-
this section apply throughout RCW 70.95.555 through cie battery except by delivery to: A person or entity se11-
70.95.565. ing lead acid batteries, a person or entity authorized by
(1) 'Storage' or 'storing' means the placing of more the department to accept the battery, or to a secondary
than eight hundred waste tirc~ in a manner that doe~ not lead smelter.
constitute final disposal of the waste tires. (2) No owner or operator of a solid waste disposal site
(2) 'Transportation' or 'transporting' means picking shall knowingly accept for disposal used vehicle batteries
up or transporting waste tires for the purpose of storage except when authorized to do so by thc departmcnt or by
or final disposal, thc federal govcrnmcnt.
(3) 'Waste tires' means tires that are no longer suit- (3) Any person who violates this section'shall be sub-
able for their original intended purpose because of wear, jcct to a fine of up to one thousand dollars. Each battery
damage, or defect. [1988 c 250 § 3.] will constitute a separate violation. Nothing in this sec-
tion and RCW 70.95.620 through 70.95.660 shall super-
RCW 70.95.555 Waste tir~ License for trans- sedc thc provisions under chapter 70.105 RCW,
port or storage busines~ Requirements. Any person (4) For purposes of this section and RCW 70.95.620
engaged in the business of transporting or storing waste
through 70.95.660, 'vehicle battery' means batteries
tires shall be licensed by the department. To obtain a Ii- capable for usc in any vehicle, having a core consisting
cerise, each applicant must: of elemental lead, and a capacity of six or more volts.
(1) Provide assurances that the applicant is in compli- [1989 c 431 § 37.]
ance with this chapter and the rules regarding waste tire
storage and transportation; and RCW 70.95.620 Identification procedure for persons
(2) Post a bond in the sum of ten thousand dollars in accepting used vehicle batteries. The department shall
favor of the state of Washington. In lieu of the bond, the establish a procedure to identify, on an annual basis,
applicant may submit financial assurances acceptable to those persons accepting used vehicle batterie, from retail
the department. [1988 c 250 § 4.] establishments. [1989 c 431 § 38.]
RCW 70.95.560 Waste fir~ Violation of RCW RCW 70.95.630 Requirements for accepting used
70.95.555, Penalty. Any person who transports or batteries by retailers of vehicle batteri~. Notice. A
stores waste tires without a license in violation of RCW
person selling vehicle batteries at retail in the state shall:
70.95.555 shall be guilty of a gross misdemeanor and (1) Accept, at the time of purchase of a replacement
upon conviction shall be punished under RCW battery, in the place where the new batteries are physi-
9A.20.021(2). [1989 c 431 § 95; 1988 c 250 § 5.] caily transferred to the purchasers, and in a'quantity at
least equal to the number of new batteries purchased,
RCW 70.95.565 Waste tire~ Contracts with un- used vehicle batteries from the purchasers, if offered by
licensed persons prohibited. No business may enter into a the purchasers. When a purchaser fails to provide an
contract for: equivalent used battery or batteries, the purchaser may
(1990 Laws) ICh. 70.95 RCW---p 13]
70.95.630 Solid Waste Mug'mt. Reduction and Recycling
reclaim the core charge paid under RCW 70.95.640 by vehicle batteries are offered for sale at retail and in' per-
returning, to the point of purchase within thirty days, a forming its duties under this section the department may
used battery or batteries and a receipt showing proof of inspect any place, building, or premise governed by
purchase from the establishment where the replacement RCW 70.95.640. Authorized employees of the agency
battery or batteries were purchased; and may issue warnings and citations to persons who fail to
(2) Post written notice which must be at least eight comply with the requirements of RCW 70.95.610
and one-half inches by eleven inches in size and must through 70.95.670. Failure to. conform to the notice re-
contain the universal recycling symbol and the following quirements of RCW 70.95.630 shall subject the violator
language: to a fine imposed by the department not to exceed one
(a) 'It is illegal to put a motor vehicle battery or thousand dollars. However, no such fine shall be ira-
other vehicle battery in your garbage.' posed unless the department, has 'issued a warning of in-
(b) 'State law requires us to accept used motor vehi- fraction for the first offense. Each day that a violator
cie batteries or other vehicle batteries roi' recycling, in does not comply with the requirements of *this act roi-
exchange for new batteries purchased.' lowing the issuance of an initial warning of infraction
(c) 'When you buy a battery, state law also requires shall constitute a separate offense. [1989 c 431 § 42.]
us to include a core charge of five dollars or more if you *Revis~'s sore: For codification of 'this act' [1989 e 431]. see
do not return your old battery for exchange.' [1989 c Codification Tables. Volume0.
431 § 39.]
RCW 70.95.670 Rules, The department shall adopt
RCW 70.95.640 Retail core charge. Each retail sale rules providing for the implementation and enforcement
of a vehicle battery shall include, in the price of the of RCW 70.95.610 through 70.95.660. [1989 c 431 §
battery for sale, a core charge of not leas than five dol- 43.]
lars. When a purchaser offers the seller a used battery of
equivalent size, thc seller shall omit thc core charge RCW 70.95.700 Solid waste incineration or energy
from thc price of thc battery. [1989 c 431 § 40.] recovery facility Environmental impact statement re-
quirements. No solid waste incineration or energy recov.-
RCW 70.95.650 Vehicle battery wholesalerg cry facility shall be operated prior to thc completion of
Obligatious regarding used batteri~ Noncompliance an environmental impact statement containing thc con-
procedure. (1) A person selling vehicle batteries at siderations required under RCW 43.21C.030(2)(c) and
wholesale to a retail establishment in this state shall ac- prepared pursuant to thc procedures of chapter 43.21C
cept, at thc time and place of transfer, used vehicle bat- 'RCW. This section does not apply to a facility operated
teries in a quantity at least equal to thc number of new prior to January 1, 1989, as a solid waste incineration
batteries purchased, if offered by the purchaser, facility or energy recovery facility burning solid waste.
(2) When a battery wholesaler, or agent of thc whole- [ 1989 c 431 § 55.]
salcr, fails to accept used vehicle batteries as provided in
this section, a rctailcr may file a complaint with thc dc- RCW 70.95.710 Incineration of medical waste. In-
partment and the department shall investigate any such cineration of medical waste shall be conducted under
complaint, sufficient burning conditions to reduce all combustible
(3) (a) Thc department shall issue an order suspend- material to a form such that no portion of the eombusti-
ing any of thc provisions of RCW 70.95.630 through hie material is visible in its uncombnsted state. [1989 c
70.95.660 whenever it finds that thc market price of lead 431 § 77.]
has fallen to the extent that new battery wholesalers' es-
timated state-wide average coat of transporting used RCW 70.95.720 Closure of energy recovery and in-
batteries to a smelter or other person or entity in thc ciner~tion facilifi~ Recordkeeping requirements. The
business of purchasing used batteries is clearly greater department shall require energy recovery and incinera-
than the market price paid for used lead batteries by tion facilities to retain records of monitoring and opera-
such smelter or person or entity, tion data for a minimum of ten years after permanent
(b) The order of suspension shall only apply to bat- closure of the facility. [1990 c 114 § 4.]
teries that are sold at retail during the period in which Several~ili~y 1990 ¢ 114: ~ RCW 70.95E.900.
the suspension order is effective.
(c) Thc department shall limit its suspension order to RCW 70.95.800 Solid waste management account.
a definite period not exceeding six months, but shall re- Thc solid waste management account is created, in the
yoke thc order prior lo its expiration date should it find state treasury. Moneys in thc account may only be spent
that thc reasons for its issuance are no longer valid, after appropriation. Expenditures from the account may
[1989 c 431 § 41.] only be used to carry out the purposes of *this act. All
earnings from the investment of balances in the solid
RCW 70.95.660 Department to distribute printed waste management account except as provided in RCW
notice Issuance of warnings and citations Fines, 43.84.090, shall be deposited into the solid waste man-
The department shall produce, print, and distribute the
agement account. [1989 c 431 § 90.]
notices required by RCW 70.95.630 to all places where
"R~'s noCe: For codification of 'this act' 11989 c 431], see
Co<[ification Table~, Volume 0.
[Ch. 70.95 RCW---p 141 (1990 Laws)
Solid Waste Mngmt. Reduction and Recycling 7£~.'~ L~4 ~
RCW 70.95.810 Composting food and yard
waste Grants and study. (1) In order to establish
the feasibility of composting food and yard wastes, the
department shall provide funds, as available, to local
governments submitting a proposal to compost such
wastes.
(2) The department, in cooperation with the depart-
ment of trade and economic development, may approve
an application if the project can demonstrate the essen-
tial parameters for succe~fui comp~ting, including, but
not limited to, cost-effectivene~, handling and safety ,.-
requirements, and current'and potential market&
(3) The department shall periodically report, to the
appropriate standing committees of the legislature on
the need for, and feasibility of, composting systems for
food and yard wastes. [1989 c 431 § 97.]
RCW 70.95.900 Authority and responsibility of util-
ities and transportation commission not changed. Noth-
ing in this act shall be deemed to change the authority
or responsibility of the Washington utilities and trans-
portation commission to regulate all intrastate carriers.
[1969 ex.s. c 134 § 27.]
RCW 70.95.901 Severability 1989 c 431. If any
provision of this act or its application to any person or -
circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or
the application of the provision to other persons or cir-
cumstances is not affected. [1989 c 431 § 107.]
RCW 70.95.902 Section captious not law 1989 c
431. Captions and headings u~l in this act do not con-.
stitute any part of the law. [1989 c 431 § 108.]
RCW 70.95.903 Application of clmptev Coilec-
tlon and transportatiou of recyclable materials by recy-
cling companies or nonprofit entitie~ Reuse or
reclamation. Nothing in this chapter shall prevent a re- "
cycling company or nonprofit entity from collecting and
transporting recyclable materials from a buy-back cen-
ter, drop-box, or from a commercial or industrial gener-
ator of recyclable materials, or upon agreement with a
solid waste collection company.
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as prohib-
iting a commercial or industrial generator of commercial
recyclable materials from selling, conveying, or arrang-
ing for transportation of such material to a recycler for
reuse or reclamation. [1989 c 431 § 32.]
RCW 70~95.910 S~verability 1969 ex.& c 134. If
any provision of this act, or its application to any person
or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act,
or the application of the provisions to other persons or
circumstances is not affected. [1969 ex.s. c 134 § 28.]
RCW 70.95.911 Severability 1975-'76 2nd ex&
c 41. If any provision of this 1976 amendatory act, or its
application to any person or circumstance is held invalid,
the remainder of the act, or the application of the provi-
sion to other persons or circumstances is not affected.
[1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 41 § 1 I.]
(1990 Laws) [Ch. 70.95 RCW---p 15]
Chapter 173-304 WAC
MINIMUM FUNCTIONAL STANDARDS FOR SOLID
WASTE HANDLING
WAC under existing laws and regulations related to solid
173-304-010 Authority and purpose, waste;
173-304-011 County planning requirements.
173-304-012 Planning requirements for energy recovery or incincr- (5) Requiring usc of the best' available technology for
etlon facilities .... siting, and all known available a.nd reasonable methods
173-304-015 Applicability. for designing, constructing, operating and closing solid
173-304--!00 Definitions. waste handling facilities; and
173-304-130 I ocational standards for disposal sites.
173-304--190 Owner responsibilities for solid waste. (6) Establishing these standards as minimum stan-
173-304-195 Permit required, dards for solid waste handling to provide a state-wide
173-304-200 On-site containerized storage., collection and trans- consistency and expectation as to thc level at which solid
portation standards for solid waste, waste is managed throughout thc state. Local ordinances
173-304-300 Waste recycling facility standards, setting standards for solid wastc handling shall not be
173-30~ ~00 Solid waste handling facility standards.
173-3~~. `-05 General facility requirements, less stringent than these minimum standards, and shall
173-3~: '.07 General closure and post-cl~urc requirements, be adopted not later than one year after thc cffcctivc
173-3~`- ;lO Transfer stations, baling and compaction systems, and date of this regulation. Local ordinances need not adopt
drop box facilities. WAC 173-304-011, County planning requirements, but
173-3~ ~20 Piles used for storage and treatment--Facility
standards, shall otherwise comply with thc requircmcnta of WAC
173-3~ ~30 Surfacc impoundmentstandanis. 173-304--011. Solid waste regulations or ordinances
173--30`- ~0 Energy recovery and incinerator standards, adopted by counties, cities, or jurisdictional boards of
173-3~~. ~.50 Landapr~adingdisposai uandatda, health shall be filed with the department ninety days
173-3~: '.50 Landfilling standards.
173-3~`- ~51 lnc~ waste and demolition waste iandfilllng facility following adoption. [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43-
requirements. .2lA RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-010,
173-30~. ~62 Woodwaste land£dling facility requirements, filed 10/28/85.]
173-3~`- ~$3 Problem waste landfills. (Reserved)
173-3~ ~57 Financial a~uranee for public facilities.
173-30`- ~.58 Financial assurance for private landfill disposal WAC 173-304-011 County planning requirements.
facilities. Thc concept of 'solid waste management' includes in
173-304-470 Other methods of solid waste handling, addition to proper storagc, collection, and disposal of
173-304-490 Ground water monitoring requirements, discards, other managcmcnt functions or operational ac-
173-304-600 Permit requirements for solid waste facilities.
173-304-700 Variances. tivities including waste reduction, source separation,
173-304-99Ol Maximum cootaminant levels for ground water, waste recycling, transportation, processing, treatment,
resource recovery, energy recovery, incineration, and
WAC 173-304--010 Authority and purpose. This landfilling. Under thc State Solid Waste .Management
regulation is promulgated under thc authority of chapter Act, chapter 70.95 RCW, primary responsibility for
70.95 RCW to protect public health, to prevent land, managing solid waste is assigned to local government
air, and water pollution, and conserve thc state's natural, (RCW 70.95.020). Thc state, however, is responsible for
economic, and energy resources by: assuring that effective local programs arc established
(1) Setting minimum functional performance stan- throughout Washington state. Therefore, state and local
dards for thc proper handling of all solid waste materials solid waste planning for thc aforementioned activities is
originating from residences, commercial, agricultural an essential part of proper solid waste management.
and industrial operations and other sources; (I) State responsibility. As described in RCW 70.95-
(2) Identifying those functions necessary to assure cf- .260, thc dcpartmcnt shall coordinate thc development of
fcctive solid waste handling programs at both thc statc a state solid waste management plan in cooperation with
and local level; local govcrnmcnt, thc department of community devcl-
(3) Following thc direction set by the legislature for opmcnt, and other appropriate state and regional agcn-
thc management of solid waste in order of descending cies. Thc state plan shall be reviewed at two-year
priority as applicable: intervals, revised as necessary, and extended so that the
(a) Waste reduction; plan shall look to thc future for twenty years as a guide
(b) Waste recycling; in carrying out a coordinated state solid waste managc-
(c) Energy recovery or incineration; ment program. -
(d) Landfill. (2) Local government responsibility. The overall put-
(4) Describing the responsibility of persons, munici- pose of local comprehensive solid waste planning is to
palities, regional agencies, state and local government determine the nature and extent of the various solid
waste categories and to establish management concepts
(10/4/8~) ICh. 173-304 WAC---p 41
173-304-011 Solid Waste Handling
for their handling, utilization, and disposal consistent RCW, the State Forest Practices Actl [Statutory Au-
with the priorities established in RCW 70.95.010 for thority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-
waste reduction, waste recycling, energy recovery and 18), § 173-304-015, filed 10/28/85.]
incineration, and landfill. Each local plan shall be pre-
pared in accordance with RCW 70.95.080, 70.95.090, WAC 173-304-100 Definitions. When used in this
70.95.100, and 70.95.110. Additionally, the department regulation, the following terms have the meanings given
has available "Guidelines for the development of local or below.
regional solid waste management plans and plan revi- (I) 'Active area' means that portion of a facility
sions" to be followed by loc, al government. RCW 70.95- where solid waste recycling, reuse, treatment, storage, or
.165 also requires counties to establish a local solid disposal operations are being, are proposed to be, or
waste advisory committee to assist in the development of have been conducted. Buffer zones shall not be consid-
programs and policies concerning solid waste handling ered part of the active area of arability.
and disposal and to review and comment upon proposed (2) "Agricultural wastes" means wastes on farms re-
rules, policies, or ordinances prior to their' adoption, suiting from the production of agricultural products in-
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22- cluding but not limited to manures, and carcasses of
013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-011, filed 10/28/85.] dead animals weighing each or collectively in excess of
fifteen pounds.
WAC 173-304-012 Planning requirements for eh- (3) "Agronomic rates" means the rates of application
ergy recovery or incineration facilities. In order to im- of sludges, manures, or crop residues in accordance with
plement the priorities and provide a basis for permit rates specified by the appropriate fertilizer guide for the
requirements established in chapter 70.95 RCW, each crop under cultivation.
comprehensive solid waste management plan shall con- (4) 'Air quality standard' means a standard set for
tain an analysis for waste reduction and re. cycling. The maximum allowable contamination in ambient air as set
analysis will include a determination of levels of waste forth in chapter 173-400 WAC, General regulations for
reduction and recycling which could occur for solid air pollution sourc, es.
wastes that are proposed to lac landfilled or incinerated. (5) "Aquifer" means a geologic formation, group of
The analysis shall include: A description of markets for formations, or part of a formation capable of yielding a
recycled material, a review of waste generation trends, a significant amount of ground water to wells or springs.
description of waste composition, a cost analysis of the (6) 'Ashes" means the residue includin, g any air poi-
impact of recycling or reduction programs on collection lution flue dusts from combustion or incineration of ma-
and disposal rate, and a discussion and description of terial including solid wastes.
any additional programs needed to assist public and pri- (7) ' Bai¢fill' means a landfill which uses compacted
vate sector recycling programs. [Statutory Authority: bales of solid waste to form discrete lifts as the landfill is
Chapter 70.95 RCW. 87-15-049 (Order 87-3), § 173- filled.
304-012, filed 7/14/87.] (8) 'Buffer zone' means that part of a facility that
lies between the active area and the property boundary.
WAC 173-304-015 Applicability. These regulations (9) ' Bulky waste' means large items of refu.s~, such
apply to solid wastes as that term is defined in WAC as appliances, furniture, and other oversize wastes which
173-304-100. These regulations shall not apply to the would typically not fit into reusable or disposable
following solid wastes: containers.
(I) Overburden from mining operations intended for (10) 'Clean soils and clean dredge spoils' means soils
return to the mine; and dredge spoils which are not dangerous wastes or
(2) Liquid wastes whose discharge or potential dis- problem wastes as defined in this section.
charge is regulated under federal, state or local water (11) 'Closure' means those actions taken by the
pollution permits; owner or operator of a solid waste site or facility to
(3) Dangerous wastes as defined by chapter 70.105 cease disposal operations and to ensure that ali such fa-
RCW and chapter 173-303 WAC; cilities are closed in conformance with applicable regu-
(4) Woodwaste used for ornamental, animal bedding, iations at the time of such closures and to prepare the
mulch and plant bedding, or roadbuilding purposes; site for the post-closure period.
(5) Agricultural wastes, limited to manures and crop (12) 'Collecting agency' means any agency, business
residues, returned to the soils at agronomic rates; or service operated by a person for the collecting of solid
(6) Clean soils and clean dredge spoils as defined in waste.
WAC 173-304-100 or as otherwise regulated by section (13) "Compliance schedule' means a written schedule
404 of the Federal Clean Water Act (PL 95-217); of required measures in a permit including an enforce-
(7) Septage taken to a sewage treatment plant per- able sequence leading to compliance with these
mitted under chapter 90.48 RCW; regulations.
(8) Radioactive wastes, defined by chapters 402-12 (14) 'Composting" means the controlled degradation
and 402-19 WAC; and of organic solid waste yielding a product for'use as a soil
(9) Wood debris resulting from the harvesting of tim- conditioner.
Der and whose disposal is permitted under chapter 76.04
{ch. 173-3o4 WAC.--p
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-100
(15) "Container' means a device used for the collec- serve the general public with loose loads and receive
tion, storage, and/or transportation of solid waste in- waste from off-site.
eluding but not limited to reusable containers, disposable (26) 'Energy recovery" means the recovery of energy
containers, detachable containers and tanks, fixed or in a useable form from mass burning or refuse derived
detachable, fuel incineration, pyrolysis or any other means of using
(16) 'Contaminate' means to allow to discharge'a the heat of combustion of solid waste that involves high
substance into ground water that would cause: temperature (above twelve hundred degrees Fahrenheit)
(a) The concentration of that substance in the ground processing.
water to exceed the maximum contamination level spec- (27) 'Existing facility' means a facility which is
ified in WAC 173-304-9901, or owned or leased, and in operation, or for which eon-
(b) A statistically significant increase in the concert- struction has begun, on or before the effective date of
tration, of that substance in the ground water where the this regulation and .the. owner, or, 9perator has obtained
existing concentration 6f that substance exceeds the permits or approvals necegsary under federal, state and
maximum contaminant level specified 'in 'WAC 173- local statutes, regulations and ordinances. A facility has
304-9901, or commenced construction if either:
(c) A statistically significant increase above back- (a) A continuous on-site physical construction pro-
ground in the concentration of a substance which: gram has begun; or
(i) Is not specified in WAC 173-304-9901, and (b) The owner or operator has entered into contrac-
(ii) Is present in the solid waste, and tual obligations which cannot be cancelled or modified
(iii) Has been determined to present a substantial risk without substantial financial loss for physical construe-
to human health or the environment in the concentra- tion of the facility to be completed within a reasonable
tions found at the point of compliance by the jurisdic- time.
tional health department in consultation with the Lateral extensions of a landfill's active area on land
department and the department of social and health purchased and permitted by the jurisdictional health de-
services, partment for the purpose of landfilling before the cf fee-
(17) 'Cover material' means soil or other suitable tire date of this regulation shall be considered existing
material that has been approved by the jurisdictional facilities.
health department as cover for wastes. (28) ' Expanded facility' means a facility adjacent to
(18) 'Dangerous wastes' means any solid waste des- an existing facility for which the land is purchased and
ignated as 'dangerous waste by the department under approved by the jurisdictional health department after
chapter 173-303 WAC. the effective date of this regulation. A vertical expansion
(19) 'Demolition waste' means .solid waste, largely approved and permitted by the jurisdictional health de-
inert waste, resulting from the demolition or razing of partment after the effective date of this regulation shall
buildings, roads and other man-made structures. Demo- also be considered an expanded facility.
lition waste consists of, but is not limited to, concrete, (29) 'Facility' means all contiguous land (including
brick, bituminous concrete, wood and masonry, comp<>- buffer zones) and structures, other appurtenances, and
sition roofing and roofing paper, steel, and minor improvements on thc land used for solid waste handling.
amounts of other metals like copper. Plaster (i.e., sheet (30) "Facility structures" means buildings, sheds,
rock or plaster board)or any other material, other than utility lines, and drainage pipes on the facility.
wood, that is likely to produce gases or a leachatc during (31) "Final treatment · means thc act of processing or
the decomposition process and asbestos wastes are not preparing solid waste for disposal, utilization, reclama-
considered to be demolition waste for the purposes of tion, or other approved method of use.
this regulation. (32) "Free liquids" means any sludge which produces
(20) "Department" means the department of ecology, measurable liquids when the Paint Filter Liquids Test,
(21) "Detachable containers" means reusable contain- Method 9095 of EPA Publication Number SW-846, is
ers that are mechanically loaded or handled such as a used.
"dumpster" or drop box. (33) "One hundred year floodplain" means any land
(22) "Disposable containers" means containers that area which is subject to one percent or greater chance of
are used once to handle solid waste such as plastic bags, flooding in any given year from any source.
cardboard boxes and paper bags. (34) "Garbage' means unwanted animal and vegeta-
(23) "Disposal" or "deposition" means the discharge, hie wastes and animal and vegetable wastes resulting
deposit, injection, dumping, leaking, or placing of any from the handling, preparation, cooking and consump-
solid waste into or on any land or water, tion of food, swill and carcasses of dead animals, and of
(24) "Disposal site" means the location where any fi- such a character and proportion as to be capable of
nal treatment, utilization, processing, or deposition of tracting or providing food for vectors, except sewage and
solid waste occurs. See also the definition of interim sewage sludge.
solid waste handling site. (35) "Ground water· means that part of the subsur-
(25) ·Drop box facility" means a facility used for the face water which is in the zone of saturatioh.
placement of a detachable container including the area (36) "Hoiocene fault" means a fracture along which
adjacent for necessary entrance and exit roads, unload- rocks on one side have been displaced with respect to
ing and turn-around areas. Drop box facilities normally those on the other side and that has occurred in the most
(10/4/8s) ICh. 173-304 WAC-i-O 31
173-304-100 Solid Waste Handling
recent epoch of the quaternary period extending from renders other persons insecure in life, or in the use of
the end of the pleistocene to the present, property.
(37) 'Incineration' means reducing the volume of (51) "Open burning" means the burning of solid
solid wastes by use of an enclosed device using controlled waste materials in an open fire or an outdoor container
flame combustion, without providing for the control of combustion or the
(38) 'Interim solid waste handling site' means any control of emissions from the combustion.
interim treatment, utilization or processing site engaged (52) 'Performance standard' means the criteria for
in solid waste handling which is not the final site of dis- the performance of solid waste handling facilities.
posal. Transfer stations, drop boxes, baling and compac- (53) 'Permeability' means the ease with which a po-
tion sites, source separation centers, and treatment are rous material allows liquid or gaseous fluids to flow
considered interim solid waste handling sites, through it. For water, this is usually expressed in units
(39) 'Industrial solid wastes' means waste by-pro- of centimeters per second and-termed hydraulic conduc-
ducts from manufacturing operations such as scraps, tivity. Soils and synthetic liners with a permeability for
trimmings, packing, and other discarded materials not water of 1 x l0 em/sec or less may be consldered
otherwise designated as dangerous waste under chapter impermeable.
173-303 WAC. (54) 'Permit' means an authorization issued by the
(40) 'Inert wastes' means noncombustible, nondan- jurisdictional health department which allows a person
gerous solid wastes that are likely to retain their physical to perform solid waste activities at a specific location
and chemical structure under expected conditions of dis- and which includes specific conditions for such facility
posal, including resistance to biological attack and operations.
chemical attack from acidic rainwater. (55) 'Person' means an individual, firm, association,
(41) 'Jurisdictional health department' means city, copartnership, political subdivision, government agency,
county, city-county or district public health department, municipality, industry, public or private corporation, or
(42) 'Landfill' means a disposal facility or part of a any other entity whatsoever.
facility at which solid waste is permanently placed in or (56) 'Pile' means any noncontainerized accumulation
on land and which is not a landspreading disposal of solid waste that is used for treatment or storage.
facility. (57) 'Plan of operation' means the written plan de-
(43) 'Landspreading disposal facility' means a facil- veloped by an owner or operator of a facility detailing
ity that applies sludges or other solid wastes onto or in- how a facility is to be operated during its active life and
corporates solid waste into the soil surface at greater during closure and post-closure.
than , vegetative utilization and soil (58) 'Point of compliance' means that part of ground
conditioners/immobilization rates, water that lies beneath the perimeter of a solid waste
(44) 'Leachate' means water or other liquid that has facilities' active area as that active area would exist at
been contaminated by dissolved or suspended materials closure of the facility.
due to contact with solid waste or gases therefrom. (59) 'Post-closure' means the requirements placed
(45) ' Local fire control agency' means a public or upon disposal sites after closure to ensure their environ-
private agency or corporation providing fire protection mental safety for at least a twenty-year period or until
such as a local fire department, the department of natu- the site becomes stabilized (i.e., little or no settlement,
ral resources or the United States Forest Service. gas production, or ieachate generation).
(46) 'Lower explosive limits' means the lowest per- (60) 'Premises' means a tract or parcel of land with
centage by volume of a mixture of explosive gases which or without habitable buildings.
will propagate a flame in air at twenty-five degrees cen- (61) 'Problem wastes' means: (a) Soils removed dur-
tigrade and atmospheric pressure, lng the cleanup of a remedial action site, or a dangerous
(47) 'Medical waste' means all the infectious, and waste site closure or other cleanup efforts and actions
injurious waste originating from a medical, veterinary, and which contain harmful substances but are not desig-
or intermediate care facility, nated dangerous wastes, or (b) dredge spoils resulting
(48) 'New facility' means a facility which begins op- from the dredging of surface waters of the state where
eration or construction after the effective date of this contaminants are present in the dredge spoils at concert-
regulation (see also definition of 'existing facility'), trations not suitable for open water disposal and the
(49) 'Nonconforming site' means a solid waste hah- dredge spoils are not dangerous wastes and are not reg-
dling facility which does not currently comply with the ulated by section 404 of the Federal Clean Water Act
facility requirements of WAC 173-304 400 but does (PL 95-217).
comply with a compliance schedule issued in a solid (62) 'Processing' means an operation to convert a
waste permit by the jurisdictional health department, solid waste into a useful product or to prepare it for
(50) 'Nuisance' consists in unlawfully doing an act, disposal.
or omitting to perform a duty, which act or omission el- (63) 'Putrescible waste' means solid waste which
ther annoys, injures, or endangers the comfort, repose, contains material capable of being deco. mposed by
health or safety of others, offends decency, or unlawfully micro-organisms.
interferes with, obstructs or tends to obstruct, any lake (64) 'Pyrolysis' means the process in which solid
or navigable river, bay, stream, canal, or basin, or any wastes are heated in an enclosed device in the absence of
public park, square, street or highway; or in any way
[Ch. 173-304 WAC----p 4l (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-100
oxygen to vaporization, producing a hydrocarbon-rich (79) 'Stream' means the point at which any confined
gas capable of being burned for recovery of energy, freshwater body of surface water reaches a mean annual
(65) 'Reclamation site' means a location used for the flow of twenty cubic feet per second.
processing or the storage of recycled waste. (80) 'Surface impoundment' means a facility or part
(66) 'Reusable containers' means containers that are of a facility which is a natural topographic depression,
used more than once to handle solid waste such as gar- man-made excavation, or diked area formed primarily
bage cans. of earthen materials (although it may be lined with
(67) 'Run--off' means any rainwater, leachate or man-made materials), and which is designed to hold an
other liquid which drains over land from any part of the accumulation of liquids or sludges. The term includes
facility, holding, storage, settling, and aeration pits, ponds, or la-
(68) 'Run--on' means any rainwater or other liquid goons, but does not include injection wells.
which drains over land onto any part of a facility. (81) 'Surface water' means .all lakes, rivers, ponds,
(69) 'Scavenging" means the removal of materials at streams,-inland waters, s~lt waters and all other water
a disposal site, or interim solid waste handling'site with- and water courses within the jurisdiction of the state of
out the approval of the owner or operator and the juris- Washington.
dictionai health department. (82) 'Transfer station' means a permanent, fixed,
(70) 'Septage' means a semisolid consisting of settled supplemental collection and transportation facility, used
sewage solids combined with varying amounts of water by persons and route collection vehicles to deposit col-
and dissolved materials generated from a septic tank iected solid waste from off-site into a larger transfer ye-
system, hicle for transport to a solid waste handling facility.
(71) 'Sludge' means a semisolid substance consisting Transfer stations may also include recycling facilities.
of settled sewage solids combined with varying amounts (83) 'Treatment' means the physical, chemical or bi-
of water and dissolved materials generated from a ological processing of solid waste to make such solid
wastewater treatment plant or other source, wastes safer for storage or disposal, amenable for energy
(72) 'Sole source aquifer' means an aquifer desig- or material resource recovery or reduced in volume.
hated by the Environmental Protection Agency pursuant (84) 'Utilization' means consuming, expending, or
to Section 1424e of the Safe Drinking Water Act (PL exhausting by use, solid waste materials.
93-523). (85) 'Vadose zone' means that portion of a geologic
(73) 'Solid waste' means all putrescible and nonpu- formation in which soil pores contain some water, the
trescible solid and semisolid wastes, including but not pressure of that water is less than atmospheric pressure,
limited to garbage, rubbish, ashes, industrial wastes, and the formation occurs above the zone of saturation.
swill, demolition and construction wastes, abandoned ye- (86) 'Vector' means a living animal, insect or other
hicles or parts thereof, and discarded commodities. This arthropod which transmits an infectious disease from
includes all liquid, solid and semisolid, materials which one organism to another.
are not the primary products of public, private, indus- (87) 'Waste recycling' means reusing waste materials
trial, commercial, mining, and agricultural operations, and extracting valuable materials from a waste stream.
Solid waste includes but is not limited to sludge from (88) 'Waste reduction' means reducing the amount
wastewater treatment plants and septage, from septic or type of waste generated.
tanks, woodwaste, dangerous waste, and problem wastes. (89) ' Water quality standard' means a standard set
(74) 'Solid waste handling' means the management, for maximum allowable contamination in surface waters
storage, collection, transportation, treatment, utilization, as set forth in chapter 173-201 WAC, Water quality
processing or final disposal of solid wastes, including the standards for waters of the state of Washington.
recovery and recycling of materials from solid wastes, (90) 'Wetlands' means those areas that are inun-
the recovery of energy resources from such wastes or the dated or saturated by surface or ground water at a fre-
conversion of the energy in such wastes to more useful quency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of
forms or combinations thereof, vegetative or aquatic life that requires saturated or sea-
(75) 'Solid waste management' means the systematic sonally saturated soil conditions for growth and repro-
administration of activities which provide for the collec- duction. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes,
tion, source separation, storage, transportation, transfer, bogs, estuaries, and similar areas.
processing, treatment, and disposal of solid waste. (91) ' Woodwaste' means solid waste consisting of
(76) 'Storage' means the holding of solid waste ma- wood pieces or particles generated as a by-product or
terials for a temporary period, waste from the manufacturing of wood products, han-
(77) 'Twenty-five year storm' means a storm of a dling and storage of raw materials and trees and stumps.
particular duration and of such an intensity that it has a This includes but is not limited to sawdust, chips, shay-
four percent probability of being equalled or exceeded ings, bark, pulp, hog fuel, and log sort yard waste, but
each year. does not include wood pieces or particles containing
(78) 'Twenty-four hour, twenty-five year storm' chemical preservatives such as creosote, pentachlorophe-
means a twenty-five year storm of twenty-four hours nol, or copper-chrome-arsenate.
duration. (92) 'Zone of saturation' means that part of a geo-
logic formation in which soil pores are filled with water
(10/4/88) iCh. ,73--3o4 wnc---o 5l
173-304-10(} Solid Waste Handling
and the pressure of that water is equal to or greater than the seasonal high level of ground water in the uppermost
atmospheric pressure, aquifer, or five feet when a hydraulic gradient control
(93) "Buy-back recycling center' means any facility system or the equivalent has been installed to control
which collects, receives, or buys recyclable materials ground water fluctuations;
from household, commercial, or industrial sources for (ii) No landfill shall be located over a sole source
the purpose of accumulating, grading, or packaging re- aquifer; and
cyclable materials for subsequent shipment and reuse, (iii) No facility's active area shall be located closer
other than direct application to land. than one thousand feet to a down-gradient drinking wa-
(94) 'Domestic wastewater facility' means all struc- ter supply well, in use and existing at the time of the
tures, equipment, or processes required to collect, carry county's adoption of the comprehensive solid waste
away, treat, reclaim, or dispose of domestic wastewater management plan unless the owner or operator can show
together with such industrial waste as may be present, that the active area is no. less than ninety days travel
(95) "Industrial wastewater facility' means all struc- time hydraulically to the nearest down-gradient drinking
tures, equipment, or processes required to collect, carry water supply well in the uppermost useable aquifer.
away, treat, reclaim, or dispose of industrial wastewater. (c) Natural soils. See WAC 173-30~ 400, such as
(96) "Liquid' means a substance that flows readily WAC 173-304 460 (3)(c)(i), landfill liners;
and assumes the form of its container but retains its in- (d) Flooding. See WAC 173-304-400 such as WAC
dependent volume. 173-304 460 (3)(d), landfill, floodplains;
(97) "Reserved" means a section having no require- (e) Surface water. No facility's active area shall be
merits and which is set aside for future possible rule- located within two hundred feet measured horizontally,
making as a note to the regulated community, of a stream, lake, pond, river, or salt water body, nor in
(98) "Limited purpose landfills" means a landfill that any wetland nor any public land that is being used by a
receives solid waste of limited types, known and consis- public water system for watershed control for municipal
tent composition, other than woodwastes, garbage, inert drinking water purposes in accordance with WAC 248-
waste, and demolition waste. [Statutory Authority: 54-660(4);
RCW 70.95.215.88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304- (0 Slope. No facility's active area shall be located on
100, filed 10/4/88. Statutory Authority: Chapter 43- any hill whose slope is unstable;
.2lA RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-100, (g) Cover material. See WAC 173-30~. ~.00, such as
filed 10/28/85.] WAC 173-304-460 (3)(e), landfills, closure;
(h) Capacity. See WAC 173-304-400, such as WAC
WAC 173-304-130 Locational standards for dis- 173-304-460, Landfilling standards, (for standards that
posal sites. (1) Applicability. These standards apply to vary according to capacity);
all new and expanded disposal sites including landfills, (i) Climatic factors. See WAC 173-304 400 such as
landspreading disposal sites, and piles and surface ira- WAC 173-30~ ~.60(3) landfill standards, (for standards
poundments that are to be closed as landfills. These applicable to arid climates);
standards do not apply to: (j) Land use. No facility shall be located:
(a) Existing facilities or facilities that have engaged in (i) Within ten thousand feet of any airport runway
closure and closed before the effective date of this currently used by turbojet aircraft or five thousand feet
regulation; of any airport runway currently used by only piston-type
(b) Interim solid waste handling sites; aircraft unless a waiver is granted by the federal avia-
(c) Energy recovery and incineration sites; tion administration. This requirement is only. applicable
(d) Piles and surface impoundments used for storage, where such facility is used for disposing of garbage such
unless otherwise referred to in WAC 173-304-400, that a bird hazard to aircraft would be created;
Solid waste handling facility standards; (ii) in areas designated by the United States Fish and
(e) Utilization of sludge and other waste on land; Wildlife Service or the department of game as critical
(t) Inert wastes and demolition wastes as defined in habitat for endangered or threatened species of plants,
WAC 173-304--100 unless otherwise referred to in fish, or wildlife;
WAC 173-304-400, Solid waste handling facility stan- (iii) So that the active area is any closer than one
dards; and hundred feet to the facility property line for land zoned
(g) Problem wastes, as defined in WAC 173-304- as nonresidential, except that the active area may be no
100. closer than two hundred and fifty feet to the property
(2) Locational standards. All applicable solid waste line of adjacent land zoned as residential existing at the
facilities shall be subject to the following locational time of the county's adoption of the comprehensive solid
standards: _ waste management plan;
(a) Geology. No facility shall be located over a (iv) So as to be at variance with any locally-adopted
holocene fault, in subsidence areas, or on or adjacent to land use plan or zoning requirement unless otherwise
geologic features which could compromise the structural provided by local law or ordinance; and
integrity of the facility. (v) So that the active area is any closer than one
(b) Ground water, thousand feet to any state or national park.
(i) No facility shall be located at a site where the (k) Toxic air emissions. See WAC 173-304-400 such
bottom of the lowest liner is any less than ten feet above as WAC 173-304 ~60 (2)(b), landfill performance
ICh. 173-304 WAC----p 6] (~0/4/S8)
Solid Waste Handlin!~ 173-304-300
standards. [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. (a) All persons collecting or transporting solid waste
85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-130, filed shall avoid littering, or the creation of other nuisances at
10/28/85.] the loading point, during transport and for the proper
unloading of the solid waste at a permitted transfer sta-
WAC 173-304-190 Owner responsibilities for solid tion, or other permitted solid waste handling site.
waste. The owner, operator, or occupant of any premise, (b) Vehicles or containers used for the collection and
business establishment, or industry shall be responsible transportation of solid waste shall be tightly covered or
for the satisfactory and legal arrangement for the solid screened where littering may occur, durable and of cas-
waste handling of all solid waste accumulated by them ily cleanable construction. Where garbage is being col-
on the property. [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A lected or transported, containers shall be cleaned as
RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-190, filed necessary to prevent nuisances, odors and insect breed-
10/28/85.] lng and shall be maintained in. good repair.
(c) Vehicles or containrrs used for the collection and
WAC 173-304-195 Permit required. After .approval transportation of any solid waste shall be loaded and
by thc department of the comprehensive solid waste plan moved in such manner that the contents will not fail,
required by RCW 70.95.100, no solid waste disposal site leak in quantities to cause a nuisance, or spill therefrom.
or facility shall be maintained, established, substantially Where such spillage or leakage does occur, the waste
altered, expanded or improved until the county, city or shall be picked up immediately by the collector or trans-
other person operating or owning such site has obtained porter and returned to the vehicle or container and the
a permit from the jurisdictional health department pur- area otherwise properly cleaned.
suant to the provisions of WAC 173-304-600. [Statu- (d) All persons commercially collecting or transport-
tory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 lng solid waste shall inspect collection and transportation
(Order 85-18), § 173-304-195, filed 10/28/85.] vehicles monthly, for repairs to containers such as miss-
ing or loose-fitting covers or screens, leaking containers,
WAC 173-304--200 On-site containerized storage, etc., and maintain such inspection records at the facility
collection and transportation standards for solid waste, normally used to park such vehicles or such other loca-
(I) Applicability. These standards apply to all persons tion that maintenance records are kept. Such records
storing containerized solid waste generated on-site, and shall be kept for a period of at least two years, and be
to all persons who are engaged in the collection and made available upon the request of the jurisdictional
transportation of solid waste of more than one single health department. [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43-
family residence or single family farm including collec- .2lA RCW. 85-22--013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-200,
tion and transportation of septage and septic tank filed 10/28/85.]
pumpings.
(2) On-site storage standards. WAC 173-304-300 Waste recycling facility start-
(a) The owner or occupant of any premises, business dards. (I) Applicability.
establishment, or industry shall be responsible for the (a) These standards apply to facilities engaged in re-
safe and sanitary storage of all containerized solid cycling or utilization of solid waste on the land, includ-
wastes accumulated at that premises, lng but not limited to:
(b) The owner, operator, or occupant of any premises, (i) Noncontainerized composting in piles;
business establishment, or industry shall store container- (ii) Utilization of sewage sludge, septage and other
ized solid wastes in containers that meet the following organic wastes on land for beneficial use:
requirements: (iii) Accumulation of wastes in piles for r~-cycling or
(i) Disposable containers shall be sufficiently strong to utilization.
allow lifting without breakage and shall be thirty-two (b) These standards do not apply to:
gallons in capacity or less where manual handling is (i) Single family residences and single family farms
practiced; engaged in composting of their own wastes;
(ii) Reusable containers, except for detachable con- (ii) Facilities engaged in the recycling of solid waste
tainers, shall be: containing garbage, such as garbage composting, which
(A) Rigid and durable; are subject to WAC 173-304-400, Solid waste handling
(B) Corrosion resistant; facility standards;
(C) Nonabsorbent and water tight; (iii) Facilities engaged in the storage of tires which
(D) Rodent-proof and easily cleanable; are subject to WAC 173-304-400, Solid waste handling
(E) Equipped with a close fitting cover; facility standards;
(F) Suita.ble for handling with no sharp edges or other (iv) Problem wastes as defined in WAC 173-304-100;
hazardous conditions; and (v) Facilities engaged in recycling of solid waste
(G) Equal to or less than thirty-two gallons in volume stored in surface impoundments which are subject to
where manual handiing is practiced. WAC 173-304-400, Solid waste handling facility stan-
(iii) Detachable containers shall be durable, corro- dards; and
sion-resistant, nonabsorbent, nonleaking and having el- (vi) Woodwaste or hog fuel piles to be used as fuel or
ther a solid cover or screen cover to prevent littering, raw materials stored temporarily in piles being actively
(3) Collection and transportation standards.
(io/4/88) ich.
173-304-300 Solid Waste Itandlinl~
used so long as the criteria of WAC 173-304-300 the guidelines are required to meet the landspreading
(3)(c)(i) are met. disposal standards of WAC 173-304 450.
(c) These standards do not apply to any facility that (5) Woodwaste and other organic sludge utilization
recycles or utilizes solid wastes in containers, tank.s, yes- requirements.
sels, or in any enclosed building, including buy-back re- (a) Facilities utilizing woodwaste not otherwise ex-
cycling centers, cluded under WAC 173-304--015, shall comply with
(2) Effective dates. All existing facilities recycling these recycling standards. Applying woodwaste and
solid waste not in conformance with this section shall be other primarily organic sludges such as pulp and paper
placed upon a compliance schedule under WAC 173- mill treatment sludges to the land shall be in a manner
304-600(1) to assure compliance within two years of the consistent with the Municipal and Domestic Sludge Uti-
effective date of this regulation, lization Guidelines WDOE 82-I 1 dated September 1982
(3) Waste recycling requirements, or as hereafter amended. Only agricultural or silvicul-
(a) All applicable solid waste recycling facilities shall tural sites where such sludges are demonstrated to have
apply for and obtain a solid waste permit 'under WAC soil conditioning or fertilizer value shall be acceptable,
173-304-600, permits, provided that the woodwaste and other primarily organic
(b) Applicable waste recycling facilities shall submit sludges are applied as a soil conditioner or fertilizer in
annual reports to the jurisdictional health department accordance with accepted agricultural and silvicultural
and the department by March I of the following year for practice. Facilities utilizing woodwaste or other primar-
which the data is collected on forms supplied by the de- ily organic sludges on the land in a manner not consis-
partment. The annual reports shall include quantities tent with nor meeting the requirement of the guidelines
and types of waste recycled for purposes of determining are required to meet the landspreading disposal start-
progress towards achieving the goals of waste reduction, dards of WAC 173-304 450.
waste recycling, and treatment in accordance with RCW (b) Facilities utilizing woodwaste or other primarily
70.95.010(4). Such facilities may request and be assured organic sludges shall also comply with the standards of
of confidentiality for their reports in accordance with subsection (3) of this section. [Statutory Authority:
chapter 42.17 RCW and RCW 43.21A.160. Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), §
(c) All facilities storing solid waste in outdoor piles or 173-304-300, filed 10/28/85.]
surface impoundments for the purpose of waste recycling
shall be considered to be storing or disposing of solid WAC 173-304-400 Solid waste handling facility
waste if: standards. (I) Applicability. The standards of WAC
(i) At least fifty percent of the material has not been 173-30a. 405 through 173-304 490 are the solid waste
shown to have been recycled in the past three years and handling facility standards and apply to all solid waste
any material has been on-site more than five years; or handling facilities, except for:
(ii) Ground water or surface water, air, and/or land (a) Waste recycling facilities, whose standards are
contamination has occurred or will likely occur under spelled out in WAC 173-304-300;
current conditions of storage or in case of fire, or flood. (b) On-site containerized storage, collection and
Upon such a determination by the jurisdictional transportation facilities which are spelled out in WAC
health department that (c)(i) or (ii) of this subsection 173-304-200;
are met, the jurisdictional health department may re- (c) Single family residences and single family farms
quire a permit application and issuance of a permit un- whose year round occupants engage in solid waste hah-
der WAC 173-304-600 of these rules, dling of the single family's solid waste on-site;
(d) Waste recycling facilities shall allow jurisdictional (d) Problem wastes as defined in WAC 173-304-100;
health department and department representatives entry (c) Solid waste handling facilities that have engaged
for inspection purposes and to determine compliance in closure and closed before the effective date of this
with these rules at reasonable times, regulation; and
(e) All applicable waste recycling facilities shall not (t') Domestic wastewater facilities and industrial
conflict with the county comprehensive solid waste man- wastewater facilities otherwise regulated by federal,
agement plan required by WAC 173-304-011 of these state, or local water pollution permits except for any
rules, portion that utilizes or engages in landspreading disposal
(13 All waste recycling facilities shall comply with ap- sludges or solid residues directly on the land.
plicable local, state and federal laws and regulations, in- (2) Standards for permits. The standards of WAC
eluding but not limited to environmental regulations and 173-304-405 through 173-304 490 shall be used as the
laws. basis for permitting as required in WAC 173-304-600.
(4) Sewage sludge utilization requirements. (3) Effective dates.
In addition to the requirements of subsection (3) of (a) All existing facilities not in conformance with the
this section, all facilities utilizing sewage sludge, includ- following sections of the facility standards shall be
ing septage shall comply with the department's Munici- placed upon compliance schedules under WAC 173-
pal and Domestic Sludge Utilization Guidelines WDOE 304--600 (1)(c) to assure full compliance wixhin eighteen
82-11, dated September 1982 or as hereafter amended, months of the effective date of this regulation for:
Facilities utilizing sewage sludge on the land in a man- (i) The general facility standards, WAC 173-304-
ner not consistent with nor meeting the requirement of 405;
[Ch. 173-304 WAC---p 81 (~0/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-405
(ii) The transfer stations, baling and compaction (c) Actions to take if there is a fire or explosion;
standards, WAC 173-304--410; (d) Actions to take if Ica~ are detected;
(iii) Ground water monitoring required in WAC 173- (e) Corrective action programs to take if ground wa-
304-490; ter is contaminated;
(iv) The landfill operating and maintenance start- (f) Actions to take for other releases (e.g. failure of
dards, WAC 173-304 460(4); run-off containment system);
(v) The tire pile standards of WAC 173-304 420(4); (g) How equipment such as leachate collection and
and gas collection equipment are to be maintained;
(vi) The iandspreading disposal standards of WAC (h) A safety plan or procedure; and
173-304-450(5). (i) Other such details as required by the jurisdictional
(b) All applicable solid waste facilities shall be in health department.
compliance with the general closure and post-closure (3) Recordkeeping..Each own, er. or operator shall
standards of WAC 173-304 ~07 and the financial as- maintain daily operating recor~is oti the weights (or vol-
surancc standards of WAC 173-304 467 and.173-304- umes), number of vehicles entering and, if available, the
468 by twelve months after the effective date of WAC types of wastes received. Major deviations from the plan
173-304 407, 173-30~ 467, and 173-304 468, except of operation shall also be noted on the operating record.
for owners or operators of existing facilities that have a (4) Reporting. Each owner or operator shall prepare
closure plan approved by the 'jurisdictional health de- and submit a copy of an annual report to the jurisdic-
partment in a solid waste permit issued before the effec- tional health department and the department by March
tive date of these amendments and are closing before I of each year. The annual report shall cover facility ac-
November 27, 1989. Existing solid waste facilities shall tivities during thc previous year and must include the
be placed upon compliance schedules under WAC 173- following information:
304 600 (l)(c) to assure compliance by thc effective (a) Name and address of the facility;
date of this subsection. (b) Calendar year covered by the report;
(c) All existing solid waste facilities not in conform- (c) Annual quantity, in tons, or volume, in cubic
anco with facility standards other than those in (a) and yards, and estimated in-place density in pounds per cu-
(b) of this subsection shall be placed upon compliance bic yard of solid waste handled, by type of solid waste if
schedules under WAC 173-304-600 (l)(c) to assure full available, for each type of treatment, storage, or disposal
compliance within four years of the effective date of this facility, including applicable recycling facilities; and
regulation. (d) Results of ground wate. r monitoring required in
(d) All new and expanded facilities other than those WAC 173-304-490.
in (b) of this subsection shall meet the facility standards (5) Inspections. The owner or operator shall inspect
of WAC 173-304-405 to 173-304-490 after the effec- the facility to prevent malfunctions and deterioration,
tive date of this regulation. [Statutory Authority: RCW operator errors and discharges which may cause or lead
70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-30~ 400, to the release of wastes to the environment or a threat to
filed 10/4/88. Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A human health. The owner or operator must conduct
RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304 ~00, filed these inspections often enough to identify problems in
10/28/85.] time to correct them before they harm human health or
the environment. The owner or operator shall keep an
WAC 173-=304-405 Genernl facility requirements, inspection log or summary including at least the date
(1) Applicability. All applicable solid waste handling fa- and time of inspection, the printed name and the hand-
cilities shall meet the requirements of this section, written signature of the inspector, a notation of observa-
(2) Plan of operation. Each owner or operator shall tions made and the date and nature of any repairs or
develop, keep and abide by a plan of operation approved corrective action. The log or summary must be kept at
as part of the permitting process in WAC 173-304-600. the facility or other convenient location if permanent of-
The plan shall describe the facilities' operation and shall rice facilities are not on-site, for at least three years
convey to site operating personnel the concept of opera- from the date of inspection. Inspection records shall be
tion intended by the designer. The plan of operation available to the jurisdictional health department upon
shall be available for inspection at the request of the request.
jurisdictional health officer. The facility must be oper- (6) Recording with county auditor. Maps and a state-
ated in accordance with the plan or the plan must be so ment of fact concerning the location of the disposal site
modified with the approval of the jurisdictional health shall be recorded as part of the deed with the county
department. Owners or operators of drop boxes may de- auditor not later than three months after closure. Re-
velop a gengric plan of operation applicable to all such cords and plans specifying solid waste amounts, location
drop boxes, owned or operated, and periods of operation shall be submitted to the local
Each plan of operation shall include: zoning authority or the authority with jurisdiction over
(a) How solid wastes are to be handled on-site during land use and be made available for inspection..
its active life; (7) State and local requirements. All solid waste dis-
(b) How inspections and monitoring are conducted posal facilities shall comply with all state and local re-
and their frequency; quirements such as zoning land use, fire protection,
(10/4/88) [ch. 173-3o4 WAC--o 91
173-304-405 Solid Waste ltandlinR
water pollution prevention, air pollution prevention, nui- 304-600 in accordance with applicable laws and
sance and aesthetics. [Statutory Authority: RCW 70.95- regulations.
.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304 405, filed (e) Each owner and operator shall close the facility in
10/4/88. Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. accordance with the approved closure plan and all ap-
85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-30~ 405, filed proved amendments.
10/28/85.] (5) Closure procedures.
(a) Each owner and operator shall notify the jurisdic-
WAC 173--304-407 General closure and post-cio- tionai health department and where applicable, the fi-
sure requirements. (1) Applicability. The requirements of nancial assurance instrument trustee, of the intent to
subsections (2), (3), (4), and (5) of this section apply to implement the closure plan in part or whole, no later
all solid waste handling facilities. The requirements of than one hundred eighty days prior to the projected final
subsections (6), (7), and (8) of this section apply to: receipt of waste at the entire facility unless otherwise
(a) Landfills subject to WAC 173-304 460 including specified in the closure plan.
limited purpose landfills under WAC 173-304 ~t~0(5); (b) The owner or operator shall commence implemen-
(b) Surface impoundments under WAC 173-304 430 tation of the closure plan in part or whole within thirty
(2)(g) closed with waste remaining in place; days after receipt of the final volume of waste and/or
(c) Woodwaste landfills under WAC 173-304--462; attaining the final landfill elevation at part of or at the
and entire facility as identified in the approved facility cio-
(d) Landspreading disposal facilities under WAC sure plan unless otherwise specified in the closure plan.
173-304-450(2). (c) Waste shall not be accepted for disposal or for use
(2) Effective dates. Existing facilities subject to the in closure except as identified in the closure plan ap-
requirements of this section shall meet the applicable proved by the jurisdictional health department, as re-
facility standards of this section within twelve months of quired in subsection (3)(a) of'this section.
the effective date of this regulation. All new or expanded (d) When facility closure is completed in part or
facilities subject to the requirements of this section shall whole, each owner and operator shall submit the follow-
meet the applicable facility standards on the effective lng to the jurisdictional health department:
date of this regulation. (i) Facility closure plan sheets signed by a profes-
(3) Closure performance standard. Each owner or op- sional engineer registered in the state of Washington and
erator shall close their facility in a manner that: modified as necessary to represent as-built changes to
(a) Minimizes the need for further maintenance; final closure construction as approved in the closure
(b) Controls, minimizes, or eliminates threats to hu- plan;
man health and the environment from post-closure es- (ii) Certification by the owner or operator, and a pro-
cape of solid waste constituents, ieachate, landfill gases, fessional engineer registered in the state of Washington
contaminated rainfall or waste decomposition products that the site has been closed in accordance with the ap-
to'-the ground, ground water, surface water, and the at- proved closure plan.
mosphere; and (e) The jurisdictional health department shall notify
(c) Prepares the facility for the post-closure period, the owner or operator and the department of ecology of
(4) Closure plan and amendment(s). Closure as de- the date when the facility post--closure period has begun,
fined in WAC 173-304-100(11), includes but is not which period shall commence when the jurisdictional
limited to grading, seeding, landscaping, contouring, health department has verified the facility has been
and/or screening. For interim solid waste handling sites, closed in accordance with the specifications .of the ap-
closure includes waste removal and decontamination of proved closure plan and the closure requirements of this
the site. section.
(a) Each owner or operator shall develop, keep and (6) Post-closure performance standard. Each owner
abide by a plan of closure approved by the jurisdictional or operator shall provide post--closure activities to allow
health department as part of the permitting process in for continued facility maintenance and monitoring of air,
WAC 173-304-600. land, and water as long as necessary for the facility to
(b) The closure plan shall project time intervals at stabilize and to protect human health and the
which sequential partial closure is to be implemented, environment.
and identify closure cost estimates and projected fund (7) Post--closure plan and amendment. For disposal
withdrawal intervals for the associated closure costs, facilities; post--closure includes ground water monitoring;
from the approved financial assurance instrument, surface water monitoring; gas monitoring; and mainte-
(c) Each owner or operator shall not commence dis- nance of the facility, facility structures, and monitoring
posal operations in any part of a facility until a closure systems for their intended use for a period of twenty
plan for the entire facility has been approved by the years and any other activities deemed appropriate by the
jurisdictional health department, and until a financial jurisdictional health department.
assurance instrument has been provided, as required by (a) Each owner or operator shall develop, keep and
applicable laws and regulations, abide by a post-closure plan approved as a' part of the
(d) The jurisdictional health department shall ap- permitting process in WAC 173-304-600. The post-
prove, disapprove, or require amendment of the closure closure plan shall address facility maintenance and
plan as part of the permitting process of WAC 173- monitoring activities for at least a twenty-year period or
ICh. 173-304 WAC----p 101 (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-410
until the site becomes stabilized (i.e., little or no settle- WAC 173-304-410 Transfer stations, baling and
ment, gas production or leachate generation), and moni- compaction systems, and drop box facilities. (I) Applic-
toting of ground water, surface water, and gases can be ability. All transfer stations, baling and compaction sys-
safely discontinued, terns and drop boxes receiving solid waste from off-site
(b) The post-closure plan shall project time intervals shall meet the requirements of this section. Facilities re-
at which post-closure activities are to be implemented, ceiving solid waste from on-site shall meet the require-
and identify post-closure cost estimates and projected ments of WAC 173-304-200.
fund withdrawal intervals from the selected financial as- (2) Transfer stations, baling and compacting systems
surance instrument, where applicable, for the associated standards. Transfer stations, baling and compaction sys-
post-closure costs, terns shall be designed, constructed, and operated so as
(c) Each owner or operator shall not commence dis- to:
posal operations in any part of a facility until a post- (a) Be surrounded .by a .fen~,.tree~, shrubbery, or
closure plan for the entii'e facility has been approved by natural features so as to ~ontrol access and be screened
the jurisdictional health department, and until' a finch- from the view of immediately adjacent neighbors, unless
cial assurance instrument has been provided where ap- the tipping floor is fully enclosed by a building;
plicable, as required by WAC 173-304 467. (b) Be sturdy and constructed of easily clcanable
(d) Each owner or operator shall complete the post- materials;
closure activities in accordance with the approved post- (c) Be free of potential rat harborages, and provide
closure plan and schedule. Facility post-closure activities effective means to control rodents, insects, birds and
shall be completed in accordance with the approved other vermin;
post-closure plan or the plan shall be so amended with (d) Be adequately screened to prevent blowing of lit-
the approval of the jurisdictional health department, ter and to provide effective means to control litter;
(e) The jurisdictional health department may deter- (e) Provide protection of the tipping floor from wind,
mine that a facility post-closure plan is invalid and re- rain or snow other than below grade bins or detachable
quire an owner or operator to amend the facility post- containers;
closure plan. (f) Have an adequate buffer zone around the operat-
(i) The health department may direct facility post- ing area to minimize noise and dust nuisances, and for
closure activities, in part or whole, to cease until the transfer stations, baling, or compaction systems, a buffer
post-closure plan amendment has received written ap- zone of fifty feet from the active area to the nearest
provai by the health department, property line in areas zoned residential;
(ii) When the health department determines a facility (g) Comply with local zoning and building eocles in-
post-closure amendment is required, the health depart- cluding approved local variances and waivers;
ment shall, after consultation with the owner/operator, (h) Provide pollution control measures to protect sur-
designate a compliance schedule for submittal of the face and ground waters, including mn-off collection and
amendment and its review and approval by the discharge designed and operated to handle a twenty-four
department, hour, twenty-five year storm and equipment cleaning
(8) Post-closure procedures, and washdown water;
(a) Each owner or operator shall commence post- (i) Provide all-weather approach roads, exit roads,
closure activities after completion of closure activities and all other vehicular areas;
outlined in subsection (5)(d)(i) and (ii) of this section. (j) Provide pollution control measures to protect air
The jurisdictional health department may direct that quality including a prohibition against all burning and
post-closure activities cease until the owner or operator the development of odor and dust control plans to be
receives a notice to proceed with post-closure activities, made a part of the plan of operation in WAC 173-304-
(b) When post-closure activities are complete, the 405(2);
owner or operator shall certify to the jurisdictional (k) Prohibit scavenging;
health department, signed by the owner or operator, and (1) Provide attendant(s) on-site during hours of
a professional engineer registered in the state of operation;
Washington stating why post-closure activities are no (m) Have a sign that identifies the facility and shows
longer necessary (i.e., little or no settlement, gas. pro- at least the name of the site, and, if applicable, hours
duction, or lcachate generation), during which the site is open for public use, what con-
(c) If the jurisdictional health department finds that stitutes materials not to be accepted and other necessary
post-closure monitoring has established that the facility information posted at the site entrance;
is stabilized (i.e., little or no settlement, gas production, (n) Have communication capabilities to immediately
or leachate generation), the health department may au- summon fire, police, or emergency service personnel in
thorize the owner or operator to discontinue post-closure the event of an emergency; and
maintenance and monitoring activities. [Statutory Au- (o) Remove all wastes at closure, as defined in WAC
thority: RCW 70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304-100, from the facility to a permitted facility.
(3) Drop box facility standards. Drop box facilities, as
173-304 407, filed 10/4/88.]
defined in WAC 173-304-100, shall:
(10/4/88) ICh. 173-304 WAC---p ! i]
173-304-410 Solid Waste Handling
la) Be constructed of durable water tight materials lc) Waste piles having a capacity of greater than ten
with a lid or screen on top that prevents the loss of ma- thousand cubic yards shall have either:
terials during transport and access by rats and other (i) A ground water monitoring system that complies
vermin; with WAC 173-304-490; or
(b) Be located in an easily identifiable place accessible (ii) A leachate detection, collection and treatment
by all-weather roads; system.
(c) Be designed and serviced as often as necessary to For purposes of this subsection, capacity refers to the
ensure adequate dumping capacity at all times. Storage total capacity of all putrescible or leachate-generat/ng
of solid waste outside thc drop boxes is prohibited; piles at one facility (i.e., two, five thousand cubic yard
(d) Comply with subsection (2)(m) of this section, piles will subject thc facility to thc requirements of this
signs; and subsection).
(c) Rcmovc all remaining wastes at closure, as defined (d) Run-on prevention .systems shall be designed and
in WAC 173-304-100, to a permitted .facility, and re- maintained to handle thc maximum flow from a twenty-
move thc drop box from thc facility. [Statutory Author- five year storm cvcnt; and
ity: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 {Order 85-18), § lc) A jurisdictional health department may require
173-304 410, filed 10/28/85.] that thc entire base or liner shall be inspected for wear
and integrity and repaired or replaced by removing
WAC 173-304-420 Piles used for storage and stored wastes or otherwise providing inspection access to
treatment--Facility standards. (1) Applicability. the base or liner; the request shall be in writing and cite
(a) This section is applicable to solid wastes stored or the reasons including valid ground water monitoring or
treated in piles as defined in WAC 173-304-100 where /eachate detect/on data leading the jurisdictional health
putrescible wastes {other than garbage)are in place for department to request such an inspection, repair or
more than three weeks, other wastes not intended for re- replacement.
cycling are in place for more than three months, and (4) Requirements for tire piles. Owners or operators
garbage is in place for more than three days. These shall:
standards are also applicable to composting or storing of la) Control access to the tire pile by fencing;
garbage and sludge in piles, and to tire piles where more (b) Limit the tire pile to a maximum of one-half acre
than eight hundred tires are stored at one facility, in size;
lb) Other solid wastes stored or treated in piles prior {c) Limit the height of the tire pile to twenty feet;
to waste recycling including compost piles of vegetative (d) Provide for a thirty foot fire lane between tire
waste, piles of ~oodn'aste used for fuel or ran, materials piles; and
are subject to WAC 173-304-300. (e) Provide on--site fire control equipment. [Statutory
lc) Waste piles stored in fully enclosed buildings are Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 {Order
not subject to these standards, provided that no liquids 85-18), § 173-304-420, filed 10/28/85.]
or sludges with free liquids are added to the pile2
(d) Inert wastes and demolition wastes are not subject WAC 173-304--430 Surface impoundment start-
to these standards, dards. (1) Applicability.
{2) Requirements. All owners and operators shall: (a) These standards are applicable to solid wastes that
(a) Comply with the requirements of the General fa- are liquids or sludges containing free liquids as defined
cility requirements, WAC 173-30~. ~.05; in WAC 173-304-100 and applicable under WAC 173-
{b) Design piles located in a one hundred year flood 304---015(2) and are stored or treated in surface
plain to: impoundments;
{i) Comply with local flood plain management ordi- {b) These standards are also applicable to sludges and
nances and chapter 508--60 WAC, Administration of septage stored or treated in surface impoundments; and
flood control zones; and lc) These standards are not applicable to:
(ii) To avoid washout or restriction of flow; and (i) Surface impoundments whose facilities and dis-
(c) Remove all solid wastes from the pile at closure to charges are otherwise regulated under federal, state, or
another permitted facility, local water pollution permits; and
{3) Requirements for putrescible wastes or wastes (ii) Retention or detention basins used to collect and
likely to produce leachate, store stormwater runoff.
{a) Waste piles shall be placed upon a surface such as (2) Requirements. All surface impoundments must be
sealed concrete, asphalt, clay or an artificial liner un- designed, constructed, and operated so as to:
derlying the pile, to prevent subsurface soil and potential la) Meet the performance standards of WAC 173-
ground water contamination and to allow collection of 304 ~60(2);
mn-off and leachate. The liner shall be designed of suf- (b) Have an inplace or imported soil liner of at least
ficient thickness and strength to withstand stresses ira- two feet of 1 x 10 cra/sec permeabd~ty or an equiva-
posed by pile handling vehicles and the pile itself; lent combination of any thickness greater than two feet
lb) Run-off systems shall be installed, designed and and a greater permeability to protect th[ underlying
maintained to handle a twenty-four hour, twenty-five aquifers or a thirty mil reinforced artificial liner placed
year storm event; on top of a structurally stable foundation to support the
liners and solid waste and to prevent settlement that
[Cia. 173-304 WAC--p 121 (10/4/88)
Solid Waste ltandling 173-304-450
would destroy the liner; natural soils shall be (2) Requirements for energy recovery facilities and
recompacted to achieve an equivalent permeability, incinerators.
Owners or operators shall be allowed to use alternative (a) Incinerators and energy recovery facilities storing
designs, operating practices and locational characteris- putrescible wastes shall be confined to storage compart-
tics which prevent migration of solid waste constituents ments specifically designed to store wastes temporarily
or leachate into the ground or surface waters at least as in piles, surface impoundments, tanks or containers. The
effectively as the liners described in this subsection; storage facilities shall meet the facility standards of
(c) Avoid washout including the use of an extended WAC 173-304-400. Storage of wastes other than in the
liner or dikes or restriction of flow in the one hundred specifically designed storage compartments is prohibited.
year floodplain and to comply with local floodplain Equipment and space shall be provided in the storage
management ordinances and chapter 508-60 WAC, Ad- and charging areas, and elsewhere as needed, to allow
ministration of flood control zones; periodic cleaning as may be r. equ, irqd in order to main-
(d) Have dikes designed with slopes so as to maintain tain the plant in a sanitary and clean condition;
the structural integrity under conditions of.a leaking (b) All residues from energy recovery facilities or in-
liner and capable of withstanding erosion from wave cinerator facilities shall be used, handled or disposed of
action; as solid or dangerous wastes according to these stan-
(e) Have the freeboard equal to or greater than eight- dards or the standards of the dangerous waste regula-
een inches to avoid overtopping from wave action, over- tion, chapter 173-303 WAC;
filling, or precipitation; (c) Each owner or operator of an energy recovery fa-
(f) Have either a ground water monitoring system, or cility or incinerator facility shall comply with WAC
a ieachate detection, collection and treatment system, 173-304--405. The plan of operation shall address alter-
for surface impoundments having a capacity of more native storage, and/or disposal plans for all breakdowns
than two million gallons unless the jurisdictional health that would result in overfilling of the storage facility;
department and the department require either for (d) Energy recovery facilities and incinerators must be
smaller surface impoundments. For purposes of this sub- designed, constructed and operated in a manner to corn-
section, capacity refers to the total capacity of all sur- ply with appropriate state and local air pollution control
face impoundments on-site (i.e., two, one million gallon authority emission and operating requirements;
surface impoundments on one site will trigger these (e) Each owner or operator shall close their energy
monitoring requirements); recovery facility or incinerator by removing all ash, solid
(g) Be closed in a manner which removes all solid wastes and other residues to a permitted facility;
wastes including liners, etc. to another permitted facility (f) Each owner or operator of an energy recovery fa-
and the site returned to its original or acceptable topog- cility or incinerator shall be required to provide recy-
raphy except that surface impoundments closed with the cling facilities in a manner equivalent to WAC 173-
waste remaining in place shall meet the requirements of 304 460 (4)(0; and
WAC 173-304 407 and 173-304-130; (g) Owners or operators of energy recovery facilities
(h) A jurisdictional health department may require or incinerators shall not knowingly dispose of, treat,
that the liner be inspected for wear and integrity and store or otherwise handle dangerous waste unless the re-
repaired or replaced by removing stored solid wastes or quirements of chapter 173-303 WAC are met. [Statu-
otherwise inspecting the liner or base at any time. The tory Authority.: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22--013
request shall be in writing and cite the reasons including (Order 85-18), § 173-304-440, filed 10/28/85.]
valid ground water monitoring or leachate detection data
leading to such an inspection and repair; WAC 173-304-450 Landspreading disPOSal start-
(i) Surface impoundments containing septage will also dards. (1) Applicability. These standards apply to facili-
be subject to the department's "criteria for sewage works ties that' engage in landspreading disposal of solid
design' used to review plans for septage surface im- wastes. These standards do not apply to:
poundments; and (a) Facilities utilizing sludge, woodwaste or other pri-
(j) Surface impoundments that have the potential to marily organic sludges according to the Municipal and
impound more than ten acre-feet of waste measured Domestic Sludge Utilization Guidelines WDOE 82-11,
from the top of the dike and which would be released by specified in WAC 173-304-300 (4) and (5);
a failure of the containment dike shall be reviewed and (b) Agricultural solid wastes resulting from the oper-
approved by the dam safety section of the department, ation of a farm including farm animal manure and agri-
[Statutory Authority: RCW 70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Or- cultural residues; and
der 88-28), § 173-30~ ~.30, filed 10/4/88. Statutory (c) Inert wastes and demolition wastes.
Authority: .Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order (2) Owners or operators of landspreading disposal fa-
85-18), § 173-304-430, filed 10/28/85.] cilities shall meet the minimum functional standards for
performance of WAC 173-30n. 460(2) and the general
WAC 173-304-440 Energy recovery and incinerator facilities standards of WAC 173-30~ ~.05.
standards. (1) Applicability. These standards apply to all (3) Owners or operators of landspreading' disposal fa-
facilities designed to burn more than twelve tons of solid cilities shall meet the Iocational standards of WAC 173-
waste per day, except for facilities burning woodwaste or 304-130.
gases recovered at a landfill.
(t0/4/88) ICh. 173-304 WAC--p 131
173-304x450 Solid Waste itandling
(4) Minimum functional standard for design. Owners closure at the point in the operating life of the facility
or operators of landspreading disposal facilities shall de- when the extent and manner of.operation would make
sign landspreading facilities so as to: closure the most expensive, as indicated by the closure
(a) Provide interim waste storage facilities that meet plan.
the requirements of WAC 173-304 400 standards (i.e., In addition, all facilities shall have a written post-
for piles, surface impoundments, etc.); closure estimate, in current dollars, the cost of post-
(b) Collect and treat all run--off from a twenty-four closure monitoring and maintenance during the post-
hour, twenty-five year storm, and divert all run-on for closure period. [Statutory Authority: RCW 70.95.215.
the maximum flow of a maximum twenty-five year 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304-450, filed
storm around the active area; 10/4/88. Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW.
(c) Avoid standing water anywhere on the active area; 85-22--013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-450, filed
(d) Avoid slopes and other features that will lead to 10/28/85.] , -
soil and waste erosion, unless contour plowing or other
measures are taken to avoid erosion; '" WAC 173-304-460 Landfilling standards. (1) Ap-
(e) Monitor ground water according to WAC 173- plicability. These standards apply to facilities that dis-
304 490; and pose of solid waste in landfills except for:
(f) Control access to site by fencing or other means (a) Inert wastes and demolition wastes landfills, that
and erect signs, must meet WAC 173-304 461 standards; and
(5) Minimum functional standards for maintenance (b) Woodwaste landfills that must meet WAC 173-
and operation. Owners or operators of landspreading 304 462 standards.
disposal facilities shall maintain and operate the facili- (2) Minimum functional standards for performance.
ties so as to: (a) Ground water. An owner or operator of a landfill
(a) Avoid any landspreading disposal of garbage or shall not contaminate the ground water underlying the
medical waste; landfill, beyond the point of compliance. Contamination
(b) Analyze solid wastes according to the require- and point of compliance are defined in WAC 173-304-
merits spelled out in thc Municipal and Domestic Sludge 100.
Utilization Guidelines WDOE 82-1 I; (b) Air quality and toxic air emissions.
(c) Avoid applying wastes at rates greater than ten (i) An owner or operator of a landfill shall not allow
times agronomic rates using thc proposed cover crop, or explosive gases generated by thc facility whose concen-
depths greater than would allow for discing thc soil by tration exceeds:
tracked vehicles; (A) Twenty-five percent of thc lower explosive limit
(d) Provide discing of soils during thc growing season for thc gases in facility structures-(excluding gas control
and after each application of waste to maintain aerobic or recovery systcm components);
soil conditions, minimize odors and lessen mn--off; (B) Thc lower cxplosivc limit for thc gases at thc
(c) Avoid applying waste to any active area having property boundary or beyond; and
standing water; (C) One hundred parts per million by volume of hy-
(0 Conform to thc operating plan and thc require- drocarbons (expressed as methane)in off--site structures.
merits of WAC 173-304 405; (ii) An owner or operator of a landfill shall not cause
(g) Avoid food chain crops during thc active life of a violation of any ambient air quality standard at thc
thc facility and until demonstrated to be safe, after cio- property boundary or emission standard from any trois-
sure, according to thc closure and post-closure plans sion of landfill gases, combustion or any other emission
filed with thc plan of operation. Specific approval in associated with a landfill.
writing from thc jurisdictional health department is re- (c) Surface waters. An owner or operator of a landfill
quired for any landspreading disposal facility that is shall not cause a violation of any receiving water quality
used to raise food crops after closure. Any new owner or standard or violate chapter 90.48 RCW from discharges
operator of a closed landsprcading disposal facility shall of surface mn--off, Icachatc or any other liquid associ-
notify thc jurisdictional health department within sixty ated with a landfill.
days of thc purchase; and (3) Minimum functional standards for design.
(h) Provide for a written contract between landown- (a) Minimizing liquids. All owners or operators of
crs, waste generators, waste haulers and waste opcrators landfills shall minimize liquids admitted to active areas
requiring compliance with rules as a condition of the of landfills by:
contract. (i) Covering according to WAC 173-304 460 (4)(d);
(6) Minimum functional standards for closure. (ii) Prohibiting thc disposal of noncontaincrizcd liq-
(a) All o.wncrs or operators of landsprcading disposal uids or sludges containing free liquids in landfills unless
facilities shall close in such a manner as to comply with approved by thc jurisdictional health department;
WAC 173-304 407; (iii) Designing the landfill to prevent all thc run-on of
(b) Financial assurance. All owners or operators of surface waters and other liquids resulting from a maxi-
landspreading disposal facilities shall have a writtcn es- mum flow of a twenty-five year storm into the active
timatc, in current dollars, of thc cost of closing thc fa- area of the landfill;
cility. The closure cost estimate must equal the cost of (iv) Designing the landfill to collect the run--off of
surface waters and other liquids resulting from a
[Ch. 173-304 WAC---9 141 (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-460
twenty-four hour, twenty-five year storm from the ac- (i) Comply with local fioodplain management ordi-
tive area and the closed portions of a landfill; nantes and chapter 508-60 WAC, Administration of
(b) Leachate systems. Ail owners or operators of flood control zones; and
landfills shall: (ii) Design the landfill so that the landfill entrance or
(i) Install a leachate collection system sized according exit roads or practices shall not restrict the flow of the
to water balance calculations or using other accepted base flood, reduce the temporary water storage capacity
engineering methods either of which shall be approved of the floodplain or result in washout of solid waste, so
by the jurisdictional health department; as to pose a hazard to human life, wildlife, land or water
(ii) Install a leachate collection system so as to pre- resources.
vent no more than two feet of leachate developing at the (e) Closure. All owners and operators shall design
topographical Iow point of the active area; and landfills so that at closure:
(iii) Install a ieachate treatment, or a pretreatment (i) At least two feet of I x. '10~-~ em/sec or lower per-
system if necessary in the case of discharge to a munici- meability soil or equivalent shall be placed upon the fi-
pal waste water treatment plant, to rneet'the require- nal lifts unless the landfill is loe. ated in an area having
merits for permitted discharge under chapter 90.48 mean annual precipitation of less than twelve inches in
RCW and the Federal Clean Water Act (PL 95-217). which case at least two feet of I x 10-s cm/sec or lower
(c) Liner designs. All owners or operators of landfills permeability soil or equivalent shall be placed upon the
shall use liners of one of the following designs: final lifts. Artificial !iners may replace soil covers pro-
(i) Standard design. The liner shall be constructed of vided that a minimum of fifty mils thickness is used;
at least a four feet thick layer of recompacted clay or (ii) The grade of surface slopes shall not be less than
other material with a permeability of no more than I x two percent, nor the grade of side slopes more than
10-? em/sec and sloped no less than two pereent;-or thirty--three percent; and
(ii) Alternative design. The design shall have two (iii) Final cover of at least six inches of topsoil be
liners: placed over the soil cover and seeded with grass, other
(A) An upper liner of at least fifty mils thickness shallow rooted vegetation or other native vegetation.
made of synthetic material; and (O Gas control.
(B) A lower liner of at least two feet thickness of (i) All owners and operators shall design landfills,
recompacted clay or other material with a permeability having a permitted capacity of greater than ten thousand
of no more than I x 10-* em/sec and sloped no less than cubic yards per year, so that methane and other gases
two percent; or are continuously collected, and
(iii) Equivalent design. The design shall use alterna- (A) Purified.for sale;
rive methods, operating practices and Iooational charac- (B) Flared; or
teristics which will minimize the migration of solid waste (C) Utilized for its energy value.
constituents or leachate into the ground or surface water (ii) Collection and handling of landfill gases shall not
at least as effectively as the liners of (c)(i) and (ii) of be required if it can be shown that little or no landfill
this subsection; or gases will be producaxl or that landfill gases will not
(iv) Arid design. This design will apply to locations support combustion; in such eases installation of vents
having less than twelve inches of precipitation annually, shall be required.
and, in lieu of (c)(i), (ii), and (iii) of this subsection, (g) Other requirements. All owners and operators of
shall consist of vadose zone moisture monitoring, pro- landfills shall design landfills to:
vided that: (i) Be fenced at the property boundary or use other
(A) Waste material is no less than ten feet above the means to impede entry by the public and animals. A
seasonal high level of ground water in the uppermost iockable gate shall be required at the entry to the
aquifer; and landfill;
(B) Any evidence of leaehate or waste constituents (ii) Monitor ground water according to WAC 173-
detected in the vadose zone that violates or could be ex- 304-490 using a design approved by the local jurisdic-
pected to violate the performance standard of WAC tional health department with the guidance of the de-
l 73-30~. %0(2) shall cause the owner or operator to: partment. The jurisdictional health department may also
(I) Take corrective action, and either require monitoring of:
(II) Close the facility according to these rules, or (A) Surface waters, including run-off;
(III) For all future expansions at that facility, meet (B) Leachate;
the liner requirement of (c)(i) or (ii) of this subsection. (C) Subsurface landfill gas movement and ambient
(v) Small landfill designs. For a landfill whose design air; and
and permit,allow a total capacity at closure of two hun- (D) Noise.
dred thousand cubic yards or less, the need for a liner (iii) Weigh all incoming waste on scales for landfills
and leachate collection system shall be determined on a having a permitted capacity of greater than ten thousand
case-by-case basis by the jurisdictional health depart- cubic yards per year or provide an equivalent method of
merit in consultation with the department, measuring waste tonnage capable of estimating total an-
(d) Floodplains. All owners or operators of landfills nual solid waste tonnage to within plus or minus five
that are located in a one hundred year floodplain shall: percent;
(lO/n/as) ICh. 173--:~o4 wAc--o -fsi
173-304-460 Solid Waste Handling
(iv) Provide for employee facilities including shelter, (ii) Cover compacted waste containing garbage fully
toilets, hand washing facilities and potable drinking wa- with at least six inches of compacted cover material af-
ter for landfills having the equivalent of three or more ter each day of operation. The jurisdictional health de-
full-time employees; partment may allow less frequent covering by
(v) Erect a sign at the site entrance that identifies at considering:
least the name of site, if applicable, the hours during (A) The characteristics of the solid waste;
which the site is open for public use, unacceptable ma- (B) The climatic and geologic setting;
terials and an emergency telephone number. Other per- (C) The size of the facility: and
tinent information may be required by the jurisdictional (D) The potential for nuisance conditions.
health department; (e) Monitoring systems. All owners and operators of
(vi) Provide on-site fire protection as determined by landfills shall maintain the monitoring system required
the local and state fire control jurisdiction; in subsection (3)(g)(ii) of this. section.
(vii) Prevent potential rat and other vectors .(such as (f) Recycling required.
insects, birds, and burrowing animalsi harborages in (i) All owners or operators of landfills at which the
buildings, facilities, and active areas; general public delivers household solid waste shall pro-
(viii) Provide the unloading area(s) to be as small as vide the opportunity for the general public to recycle
possible, consistent with good traffic patterns and safe cans, bottles, paper and other material for which a mar-
operation; ket exists and brought to the landfill site:
(ix) Provide approach and exit roads to be of all- (A) During the normal hours of operation;
weather construction, with traffic separation and traffic (B) In facilities convenient to the public (i.e., near
control on-site, and at the site entrance; and entrance to the gate).
(x) Provide communication between employees work- (ii) Owners or operators may demonstrate alternative
lng at the landfill and management offices on-site and means to providing an opportunity to the general public
off-site (such as telephones) to handle emergencies, to recycle household solid waste.
(4) Minimum functional standards for maintenance (g) Disposal of dangerous waste prohibited. Owners or
and operation, operators of landfills shall not knowingly dispose, treat,
(a) Operating plans. All owners or operators of land- store, or otherwise handle dangerous waste unless the
fills shall maintain and operate the facility so as to con- requirements of the dangerous waste regulation, chapter
form to the approved plan of operation. 173-303 WAC are met.
(b) Operating details. All owners or operators of (5) Limited purpose landfill standards.
landfills shall operate the facility so as to: (a) Limited purpose landfills shall meet the following
(i) Control road dust; requirements:
(ii) Perform no open burning unless permitted by the (i) The general facility standards of WAC 173-304-
jurisdictional air pollution control agency or the depart- 405:
merit under the Washington Clean Air Act, chapter 70- (ii) The general closure and post-closure standards of
.94 RCW. Garbage shall not be open burned. WAC 173-304 407;
(iii) Collect scattered litter as necessary to avoid a fire (iii) The performance standards of WAC 173-304-
hazard or an aesthetic nuisance; 460(2);
(iv) Prohibit scavenging; (iv) The financial assurance standards of WAC 173-
(v) Conduct on-site reclamation in an orderly sanitary 304 467 and 173-304 468; and
manner, and in a way that does not interfere with the (v) The ground water monitoring standards of WAC
disposal site operation; 173-304 490.
(vi) Insure that at least two landfill personnel are on- (b) In addition, limited purpose landfills must meet all
site with one person at the active face when the site is other standards of WAC 173-304-130 and 173-304-
open to the public for landfills with a permitted capacity 460 unless the owner or operator applies for relief from
of greater than fifty thousand cubic yards per year; each of these requirements as part of his permit applica-
(vii) Control insects, rodents and other vectors; and tion and includes evidence or reasons why the nature of
(viii) Insure that reserve operational equipment shall the waste, the disposal site and other factors can protect
be available to maintain and meet these standards, the environment and the public health. [Statutory Au-
(c) Boundary posts. All owners or operators of land- thority: RCW 70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), §
fills shall clearly mark the active area boundaries auth- 173-304 460, filed 10/4/88. Statutory Authority:
orized in the permit, with permanent posts or using Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), §
equivalent method clearly visible for inspection purposes. 173-304-460, filed 10/28/85.]
(d) Compaction and daily cover. All owners or oper-
ators of landfills shall: WAC 173-304-461 Inert waste and demolition
(i) Thoroughly compact the solid waste before suc- waste landfiiling facility requirements. (l) Applicability.
ceeding layers are added; and These standards apply to facilities that landfill more
than two thousand cubic yards of inert wa§tes and de-
molition wastes, as defined in WAC 173-304-100, in-
cluding facilities that use inert waste and demolition
waste as a component of fill. Inert wastes and demolition
[ch. 173-304 WAC--p 161 (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-,167
wastes used as road building materials are excluded shoreline and associated wetlands only if a demonstrated
from this section. These standards do not apply to as- and proven technology to prevent ground and surface
bestos containing waste regulated under the federal 40 water contamination is used.
CFR Part 61 rules and the dangerous waste regulation, (b) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
chapter 173-303 WAC. maintain a record of the weights or volumes of waste
(2) Inert wastes and demolition waste landfilling fa- disposed of at each facility.
cilities shall not be subject to the Locational standards (c) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
for disposal sites, WAC 173-304-130 except for WAC not accept any other wastes except woodwaste.
173-304-130 (2)(0, slope. (d) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
(3) Owners or operators of inert waste and demolition prevent run-on from a maximum twenty-five year
waste landfill shall maintain a record of the weights or storm.
volumes and types of waste disposed of at each site. (e) All wood waste landfills, having a capacity of
(4) Owners or operators of inert wastes and demoli- greater than ten thousand cubic yards at closure shall
tion landfills shall employ measures to prevent'emission either:.
of fugitive dusts, when weather conditions or climate in- (i) Have a ground water monitoring system that com-
dicate that transport of dust off-site is liable to create a plies with WAC 173-304 490 and the woodwaste land-
nuisance. Preventative measures include watering of fill meet the performance standards of WAC 173-304-
roads and covering. 460(2): or
(5) Timbers, wood and other combustible waste shall (ii) Have a leachate collection and treatment system.
be covered as needed during the summer months to . (f) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
avoid a fire hazard, not deposit woodwaste in lifts to a height of more than
(6) Owners or operators of inert wastes and demoli- ten feet per lift with at least one foot of cover material
tion landfills shall close the facility by leveling the between lifts to avoid hot spots and fires in the summer
wastes to the extent practicable and shall fill any voids and to avoid excessive build-up of ieachate in the winter,
posing a physical hazard for persons after closure and to and shall compact woodwaste as necessary to prevent
maintain an aesthetic appearance. A minimum of one voids.
foot of soil cover shall be used to close landfills. (g) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
(7) Owners or operators of inert waste and demolition prevent unauthorized disposal during off-hours by con-
waste landfills shall obtain a permit, as set forth in trolling entry (i.e., lockable gate or barrier), when the
WAC 173-304-600 from the jurisdictional health facility is not being used.
department. (h) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
(8) Owners or operators of inert waste~ and demoli- close the facility by leveling and compacting the wastes
tion landfills shall meet the requirements of WAC 173- and applying a compacted soil cover of at least two feet
304-405(7), recording with the county auditor, thickness.
(9) Owners or operators of inert waste or demolition (i) Owners or operators of woodwaste landfills shall
waste landfills shall not accept any other form of waste obtain a permit as set forth in WAC 173-304-600 from
except inert waste and demolition waste, the jurisdictional health department. [Statutory Author-
(lO) Owners or operators of inert waste and demoli- ity: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), §
tion waste landfills shall prevent unauthorized disposal 173-304-462, filed 10/28/85.]
during off-hours by controlling entry (i.e., Iockable gate
or barrier) when the facility is not being used. [Statu- WAC 173-304-463 Problem waste landfills. (Re-
tory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Or- served) [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW.
der85-18),§ 173-304-461, filed 10/28/85.] 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-30~ ~63, filed
10/28/85.1
WAC 173-304462 Woodwaste landfillinl~ facility
requirements. (1) Applicability. These requirements ap- WAC 173-304-467 Financial assurance for public
ply to facilities that landfill more than two thousand cu- facilities. (1) Applicability.
bic yards of woodwaste including facilities that use (a) These standards apply to all new and expanded
woodwaste as a component of fill. Woodwaste is defined landfill disposal facilities, and to existing landfill dis-
in WAC 173-304-100. These standards are not applica- posal facilities that have not been closed on or before
hie to woodwaste landfills on forest lands regulated un- November 27, 1989. Landfill disposal facilities include:
der the Forest Practices Act, chapter 76.09 RCW. (i) All solid waste facilities operated as landfills under
(2) Minimum functional standards. WAC 173-304 460, including limited purpose landfills
(a) WoocLwaste landfills are not subject to WAC 173- under WAC 173-30~. 460(5);
304-130 standards, Locational standards for disposal (ii) Facilities operated as surface impoundments un-
sites, except for WAC 173-304-130 (2)(e) surface wa- der WAC 173-304 430 that are closed with the waste
ter locational standards and WAC 173-304-130 remaining in place and therefore required_to meet the
(2)(b)(iii) down gradient drinking water supply wells, requirements of WAC 173-304 407; and
Woodwastes may be used as a component of fill within a (iii) Woodwaste landfills operated under WAC 173-
304 462;
(10/4/88) [Ch. 173-304 WAC---p 17]
173-304-467 Solid Waste Handling
(b) For the purposes of this section, landfill disposal (a) Landfill disposal facilities that accept waste from
facilities are divided into the following ownership/use the general public shall choose from the following op-
categories: tions or combination of options for accounting for the
(i) A privately-owned facility that accepts waste from financial assurance account:
the general public; (i) For landfill disposal facilities owned or operated by
(ii) A publicly-owned facility that accepts waste from municipal corporations, the closure and post-closure re-
the general public, serve account shall be handled in one of the following
(c) For the purposes of this section, publicly-owned or ways:
operated facilities may set up one account for both cio- (A) Cash and investments accumulated and restricted
sure and post-closure care of each facility, for closure with an equivalent amount of fund balance
(2) Cost estimate for closure, reserved in the fund accounting for solid waste activity;
(a) Each owner or operator shall prepare a written or "'
closure cost estimate as part of the facility closure plan. (B) The cash and investments held in a
The closure cost estimate shall be in current dollars and nonexpendable trust fund.
represent the cost of closing the facility in accordance (C) Other approved method.
with the closure requirements in WAC 173-30~ ~07. (ii) Closure trust fund established with an entity
(i) The cost estimate shall be based on a reasonable which has the authority to act as a trustee and whose
cost estimate for completing design, purchase, construe- trust operations are regulated and examined by a federal
tion, and other activities as identified in the facility cio- or state agency. The wording of the trust agreement
sure plan as required under WAC 173-304 407; must be acceptable to the local health department. The
(ii) The closure plan shall project intervals for with- purpose of the closure trust fund is to receive and man-
drawal of closure funds from the closure financial assur- age any funds paid by the owner or operator and to dis-
ance instrument to complete the activities identified in burse those funds only for closure activities as identified
the approved closure plan; in the approved closure plan.
(iii) The closure cost estimate shall not be reduced by (b) For private disposal facilities that accept public
allowance for salvage value of equipment, waste, or the waste, established closure financial assurance accounts
reaale value of property or land; shall not constitute an asset of the facility owner or
(b) Each owner or operator shall prepare a new cio- operator.
sure cost estimate in accordance with (a) and (c) of this (c) During the operating life of the facility, the owner
subsection whenever: or operator must review the closure cost estimate thirty
(i) Changes in operating plans or facility design affect days before each anniversary of the date on which the
the closure plan; first closure cost estimate was prepared. The review shall
(ii) There is a change in the expected year of closure examine all factors, including inflation, involved in esti-
that affects the closure plan; or mating the closure cost estimate. Any changes in costs
(iii) The jurisdictional health department directs the shall be factored into a revised closure cost estimate.
owner or operator to revise the closure plan or closure The new estimate shall be submitted to the jurisdictional
cost estimate, health department for review and approval.
(c) Each owner or operator shall review the closure (d) For disposal facilities of this section, any income
cost estimate annually thirty days prior to the anniver- in excess of the closure cost estimate accruing to the es-
sary date of the first closure cost estimate. The review tablished closure financial assurance account will be at
will examine all factors, including inflation, involved in the owner's discretion as to the use of said funds.
estimating the closure cost. Any cost changes must be (e) Excess moneys remaining in the closure financial
factored into a revised closure cost estimate and submit assurance account after the completion of all identified
the revised cost estimate to the jurisdictional health de- closure activities will be released to the facility owner or
partment for review and approval, operator.
(d) During the operating life of the facility, the owner (4) Cost estimate for post-closure.
or operator shall make the latest closure cost estimate (a) Each owner or operator shall prepare a written
prepared in accordance with (a) and (b) of this subsec- post-closure cost estimate as part of the facility post-
tion, and when this estimate has been adjusted in ac: closure plan. The post-closure cost estimate shall be in
cordance with (c) of this subsection, made available for current dollars and represent the total cost of completing
review, post-closure activities for the facility for at least a
(3) Financial assurance account for closure. Each twenty-year post-closure period in accordance with the
owner or operator of an applicable landfill disposal fa- post-closure requirements in WAC 173-304-407.
cility shall establish a financial assurance account in an (i) The post-closure cost estimate shall be based on a
amount that, over the life of the facility, will accumulate reasonable cost estimate for completing post-closure
funds to be equal to the closure cost estimate prepared monitoring, maintenance, and other activities identified
in accordance with subsection (2) of this section unless in the approved facility post-closure plan. as required
otherwise specified, under WAC 173-304 407;
(ii) The post-closure plan shall project annual or
other intervals for withdrawal of post-closure funds
from the post-closure financial assurance instrument to
ICa. 173-304 WAC--p 181 (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-467
complete the activities identified in the approved post- (c) For applicable disposal facilities of this section any
closure plan; income accruing to the established post-closure financial
(iii) The post-closure cost estimate shall not be re- assurance account will be at the owner's discretion as to
duced by allowance for salvage, value of equipment, the use of said excess funds.
waste, or resale value of property or land. (d) Excess moneys remaining in the post-closure fi-
(b) Each owner or operator shall prepare a new post- nanciai assurance account after the completion of all
closure cost estimate for thc remainder of thc post-cio- identified post--closure activities shall be released to the
sure care twenty-year period in accordance with (a) and facility owner or operator.
(c) of this subsection, whenever: (6) Closure/post-closure financial assurance account
(i) Change in the post-closure plan increases or de- establishment and reporting.
creases the cost of post-closure care; or (a) Closure and post-closure financial assurance funds
(ii) The jurisdictional health department directs the shall be generated at each fac. ilit~ .b3' transferring a per-
owner or operator to rbvise the post-closure plan or centage of the facility nse~ fees to the selected financial
post-closure cost estimate. -- assurance instrument at the schedule specified in the
(c) During the operating life of the facility, the owner closure and post-closure plans, such that adequate cio-
or operator shall review the post-closure cost estimate sure and post-closure funds will be generated to ensure
thirty days prior to e~eh anniversary of the date on full implementation of the approved closure and post-
which the first post-closure cost estimate was prepared, closure plans.
The review shall examine all factors, including inflation, (b) Each facility owner or operator must establish a
involved in estimating the post--closure cost estimate, procedure with the financial assurance instruments trus-
Any changes in costs must be factored into a revised tee for notification of nonpayment of funds to be sent to
post-closure' cost estimate. The new estimate must be the jurisdictional health department and the department
submitted to the jurisdictional health department for of ecology.
approval. (c) Each owner or operator shall file with the depart-
(d) During the operating life of the facility, the owner merit of ecology an annual audit of the financial assur-
or operator shall keep the latest post-closure cost esti- ance accounts established for closure and post-closure
mate prepared in accordance with (a) and (b) of this activities, and a statement of the percentage of user fees,
subsection, available for review, as applicable, diverted to the financial assurance
(5) Financial assurance account for post-closure, instruments.
Each owner or operator of a landfill disposal facility (i) For landfill disposal facilities owned and operated
shall establish a financial assurance account in an by municipal corporations, the closure reserve account
amount equal to the post-closure cost estimate prepared shall be audited according to the audit schedule of the
in accordance with subsection (4) of this section, office of state auditor and shall be filed with the depart-
(a) Applicable landfill disposal facilities that accept merit of ecology, including each of the post-closure care
waste from the general public shall choose from the fol- years.
lowing options or combinations of options for accounting (ii) For landfill disposal facilities not owned or oper-
for the financial assurance account: ated by municipal corporations:
(i) For landfill disposal facilities owned or operated by (A) Annual audits shall be conducted by a certified
municipal corporations, the post-closure reserve shall be public accountant licensed in the state of Washington,
handled in one of the following ways: and shall be filed with the department of ecology no
(A) Cash and investments accumulated and restricted later than March 31 of each year for the previous calen-
for post-closure with an equivalent amount of fund hal- dar year, including each of the post-closure care years.
ante reserved in the fund accounting for solid waste (B) The audit shall also include calculations demon-.
activity; strafing the proportion of closure completed during the
(B) Cash and investments held in a nonexpendable preceding year as specified in the closure and
trust fund. sure plans.
(C) Other approved method. (d) Existing landfill disposal facilities may submit a
(ii) Post-closure trust fund established with an entity written request with their annual audit to the depart-
which has the authority to act as a trustee and whose merit of ecology requesting a waiver from utilizing user
trust operations are regulated and examined by a federal fees to generate the moneys necessary for the closure
or state agency. The wording of the trust agreement and/or post-closure financial assurance account.
must be acceptable to the department of ecology. The (i) The waiver request should provide documentation
purpo~ of the post-closure trust fund is to receive and to demonstrate the facility user fees are prohibitively
manage any~ funds paid by the owner or operator and to high, and include alternate method(s) for funding the
disburse those funds only for post--closure activities as facility's closure and/or post-closure financial assurance
identified in the approved post-closure plan. account;
(b) For disposal facilities as categorized in subsection (ii) The waiver request review procedure will be ac-
(l)(b) of this section, established post-closure financial cording to WAC 173-304-700.
assurance accounts shall not constitute an asset of the (7) Authorization for financial assurance account
facility owner or operator, fund withdrawal for closure and post-closure activities.
(10/4/88) [Ch. 173-304 WAC--p 19]
173-304-467 Solid Waste Handling
(a) Each owner or operator will withdraw funds from anniversary date of the date on which the first closure
the closure and/or post--closure financial assurance in- and post-closure cost estimate was prepared. The review
strument as specified in the approved closure/post-cio- shall examine all factors, including inflation, involved in
sure plans; estimating the closure and post-closure cost. Any cost
(b) If the withdrawal of funds from the financial as- changes shall be factored into a revised closure or post-
surance instrument exceeds by more than five percent closure cost estimate and submit the revised cost esti-
the withdrawal schedule stated in the approved closure mate to the jurisdictional health department and the de-
and/or post-closure plan, the closure and/or post-cio- partment of ecology.
sure plan shall be amended. [Statutory Authority: RCW (d) During the operating life of the facility, the owner
70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304 467, or operator must keep the latest closure and post-closure
filed 10/4/88.] cost estimate prepared in accordance with (a) and (b) of
this subsection, and when this estimate has been ad-
WAC 173-304--468 Financial assurance for private justed in accordance with (c) of this subsection, avail-
landfill disposal facilities. (1) Applicability. able for review.
(a) For the purposes of this regulation private landfill (e) The department of ecology will evaluate each cost
disposal facilities are privately-owned facilities that do estimate for completeness, and may accept, or require a
not accept waste from the general public and dispose of revision of the cost estimate in accordance with its
only their own generated waste, evaluation.
(b) These standards apply to ali new and expanded (3) Financial assurance mechanism for closure and
landfill disposal facilities, and to existing landfill dis- post-closure. Each owner or operator of an applicable
posat facilities that have not been closed on or before landfill disposal facility shall establish financial assur-
November 27, 1989. Landfill disposal facilities include: ance mechanisms in an amount equal to the closure cost
(i) Facilities operated as surface impoundments under estimate and post-closure cost estimate prepared in ac-
WAC 173-30~ ~30 that are closed with waste remain- cordance with subsection (2) of this section.
lng in place and therefore required to meet the require- (a) Applicable landfill disposal facilities shall provide
ments of WAC 173-30~. a.07; and one or more of the following financial assurance
(ii) Woodwaste landfills operated under WAC 173- instruments:
304--462. (i) Closure and post-closure trust funds established
(2) Cost estimates for closure and post-closure, with an entity which has authority to act as a trustee
(a) Each owner or operator shall prepare separate and whose trust operations are regulated and examined
written closure and post-closure cost estimates as part of by a federal or state agency. The wording of the trust
the facility closure and post-closure plans. The cost esti- agreement must be acceptable to the department of
mates shall be in current dollars and represent the cost ecology. The purpose of the closure and post-closure
of closing or post-closure care of the facility for a period trust funds is to receive and manage any funds paid by
of twenty years in accordance with the closure require- the owner or operator and to disburse those funds only
merits in WAC 173-304-407. for closure or post-closure activities as identified in the
(i) The cost estimate shall be based on a reasonable approved closure and post-closure plan;
cost estimate for completing design, purchase, construe- (ii) Surety bond guaranteeing payment into a closure
tion, and other activities as identified in the facility cio- and post-closure trust fund issued by a surety company
sure or post-closure plan as required under WAC 173- listed as acceptable in Circular 570 of the United States
30~ ~07; Treasury Department or as hereafter amended. The
(ii) The closure and post-closure plans shall project wording of the surety bond(s) must be acceptable to the
intervals for withdrawal of funds from the closure or department. A standby closure and post-closure trust
post-closure financial assurance instrument to complete fund must also be established by the permittee. The
the activities identified in the approved closure or post- purpose of the standby closure or post-closure trust fund
closure plan; is to receive any funds that may be paid by the operator
(iii) The closure and post-closure cost estimate shall or surety company. The bond must guarantee that the
not be reduced by allowance for salvage value of equip- permit~ee will either fund the standby closure or post-
ment, waste, or the resale value of property or land. closure trust in an amount equal to the penal sum of the
(b) Each owner or operator shall prepare a new cio- bond before the site stops receiving waste. The surety
sure or post-closure cost estimate in accordance with (a) shall become liable on the bond obligation if the permit-
and (c)of this subsection whenever: tee fails to perform as guaranteed by the bond. The
(i) Changes in operating plans or facility design affect surety may not cancel the bond until at least one hun-
the closure or post-closure plans; dred twenty days after the notice of cancellation has
(ii) There is a change in the expected year of closure been received by both the permittee and the local health
that affects the closure plan; or department. If the permittee has not provided alternate
(iii) The jurisdictional health department directs the financial assurance acceptable under this section within
owner or operator to revise the closure or post-closure ninety days of the cancellation notice, the' surety must
plan or closure or post-closure cost estimate, pay the amount of the bond into the standby closure or
(c) Each owner or operator shall review the closure post-closure trust account;
and post-closure cost estimate thirty days prior to the
ICh. ~73-304 WAC----0 201 (~0/a/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-468
(iii) Surety bond guaranteeing performance of closure the permittee and the local health department. Termina-
or post-closure issued by a surety company listed as ac- tion of the policy may not occur and the policy must re-
ceptable in Circular 570 of the United States Treasury main in full force and effect if: The local health
Department or as hereafter amended. The wording of department determines the facility has been abandoned;
the surety bond must be acceptable to the department of or closure has been ordered by the local health depart-
ecology. A standby closure and post-closure trust fun'd ment or a court of competent jurisdiction, or the permit-
must also be established by the permittee. The purpose tee has been named as debtor in a voluntary or
of the standby closure or post-closure trust fund is to involuntary proceeding under Title I1 U.S.C. (Bank-
receive any funds that may be paid by the surety com- ruptcy); or the premium due is paid. The permittee is
party. The bond must guarantee that the permittee will required to maintain the policy in full force and until an
perform final closure or post-closure activities. The alternative financial assurance guarantee is provided or
surety shall become liable on the bond obligation if the when the permit is terminated.
permittee fails to perform as guaranteed by the bond. (vi) Financial test and cOrpo'rat~ g~arantee for closure
The surety may not cane, el the bond until at least one and post-closure. A private corporation meeting the fi-
hundred twenty days after the notice of cancellation has nancial test may provide a corporate guarantee that cio-
been received by the permittee and the local health de- sure and post-closure activities will be completed
partment. If the permittee has not provided alternative according to the approved closure and post-closure plans
financial assurance acceptable under this section within and permit requirements. To qualify, a private corpora-
ninety days of the cancellation notice, the surety must tion must meet the criteria of either (a)(vi)(A) or (B) of
pay the amount of the bond into the standby closure or this subsection:
post-closure trust account; (A) Financial test. To pass the financial test the per-
(iv) Closure or post-closure irrevocable letter of credit mit must have:
issued by an entity which has the authority to issue let- (I) Two of the following three ratios: A ratio of total
ters of credit and whose letter-of-credit operations are liabilities to net worth less than 2.0; a ratio of the sum of
regulated and examined by a federal or state agency, net income plus depreciation, depletion, and amortiza-
The wording of the letter of credit must be acceptable to tion to total liabilities greater than 0.1; or a ratio of
the department. Standby closure and post-closure trust current assets to current liabilities greater than 1.5;
funds must also be established by the permittee. The (II) Net working capital and tangible net worth each
purpose of the standby trust funds is to receive any at least six times the sum of the current closure and
funds deposited by the issuing institution resulting from post-closure cost estimates;
a draw on the letter of credit. The letter of credit must (III) Tangible net worth of at least ten million dollars;
be irrevocable and issued for a period of at least one and
year unless the issuing institution notifies both the per- (IV) Assets in the United States amounting to at least
mittee and the local health department at least one hun- ninety percent of its total assets or at least six times the
tired twenty days before the current expiration date. If sum of the current closure and post-closure cost
the permittee fails to perform closure and post-closure estimates.
activities according to the closure or post-closure plan (B) Alternative financial test. To pass the alternative
and permit requirements, or if the permittee fails to financial test, the perminee must have:
provide alternate financial assurance acceptable to the (I) A current rating of AAA, AA, A, or BBB as is-
department within ninety days after notification that the sued by Standard and Poor's or Aaa, Aa, ,k, or Bbb as
letter of credit will not be extended, the local health de- issued by Moo~y'~
partment may draw from the letter of credit: (II) Tangible net worth at least six times the sum of
(v) Closure and post-closure insurance policies issued the current closure and post-closure cost estimates;
by an insurer who is licensed to transact the business of (III) Tangible net worth of at least ten million dollars;
insurance or is eligible as an excess or surplus lines in- and
surer in one or more states. The working of the certifi- (IV) Assets in the United States amounting to at least
cate of insurance must be acceptable to the department, ninety percent of its total assets or at least six times the
Each insurance policy must guarantee that the funds will sum of the current closure and post-closure cost
be available to complete those activities identified in the estimates.
approved closure and post-closure plans. The policy (C) The permittee shall demonstrate that it passes the
must also guarantee that the insurer will be responsible financial test at the time the closure plan is filed and re-
for paying out funds for activities identified in either the confirm that annually ninety days after the end of the
closure or post-closure plan. The policy must provide corporation's fiscal year by submitting the following
that the insarance is automatically renewable and that items to the department of ecology:
the insurer may not cancel, terminate, or fail to renew (I) A letter signed by the permittee's chief financial
the policy except for failure to pay the premium. If there officer that provides the information necessary to docu-
is a failure to pay the premium, the insurer may not ter- merit that the permittee passes the financial test; that
minate the policy until at least one hundred twenty days guarantees that the funds to finance closure and post-
after the notice of cancellation has been received by both closure activities according to the closure or post-closure
(10/4/88)
173-304-468 Solid Waste Handling
plan and permit requirements are available; that guar- to the permittee, to the jurisdictional health department
antees that the closure and post-closure will be corn- and to the department of ecology. Cancellation may not
pleted according to the closure or post-closure plan and occur, however, during the one hundred twenty days be-
permit requirements; that guarantees that within thirty ginning on the date of receipt of the notice of cancella-
days after written notification from the jurisdictional tion by both the permittee and the department of
health department that the permittee no longer meets ecology, as evidenced by the return receipts.
the criteria of the financial test the permittee shall pro- (iii) If the permittee fails to provide alternate ~nan-
vide an alternative form of financial assurance consistent cial assurance as specified in this section and obtain the
with the requirements of this section; that guarantees written approval of such alternate assurance from the
that the permittee's chief financial officer will notify the jurisdictional health department or the department of
jurisdictional health department within fifteen days any ecology within ninety days after receipt by both the per-
time that the permittee no longer meets the criteria of mittee, the jurisdictional health detyartment, and the de-
the financial test or is named as debtor in a voluntary or partment of ecology of a notice of cancellation of the
involuntary proceeding under Title 11' U.S2C~ (Bank- guarantee from the guaramor, the guarantor will provide
ruptcy); and that acknowledges that the corporate guar- such alternative financial assurance in the name of the
antee is a binding obligation on thc corporation and that permittee.
the chief financial officer has the authority to bind the (4) Closure/post-closure trust fund account establish-
corporation to the guarantee; ment and reporting.
(II) A copy of the independent certified public ac- (a) Each owner or operator shall file with the local
countant's report on examination of the permittee's fi- health department an annual audit of the financial as-
nanciai statements for the latest completed fiscal year; surance accounts established for closure and post--cio-
(III) A special report from the permittee's indepen- sure activities.
dent certified public accountant (CPA) stating that the (b) Annual audits shall be conducted by a certified
CPA has compared the data which the letter from the public accountant licensed in the state of Washington,
permittee's chief financial officer specifies as having and shall be filed with the department of ecology no
been derived from the independently audited year end later than March 31 of each year for the previous calen-
financial statements for the latest fiscal year with the dar year, including each of the post-closure care years.
amounts in such financial statement and that no matters (c) The audit shall also include calculations demon-
came to thc CPA's attention which caused the CPA to strating the proportion of closure completed during the
believe that the specified data should be adjusted; preceding year as specified in the closure and post-cio-
(IV) The jurisdictional health department may, based sure plans.
on a reasonable belief that the permittee no longer meets (5) Authorization for financial assurance account
the criteria of the financial test, require reports of the fund withdrawal for closure and post-closure activities.
financial condition at any time from the permittee in (a) Each owner or operator shall withdraw funds from
addition to the annual report. If the jurisdictional health the closure and/or post-closure financial assurance in-
department finds, on the basis of such reports or other strument as specified in the approved closure/post-clo-
information that the permittee no longer meets the cri- sure plans;
teria of the financial test, the permittee shall provide an (b) If the withdrawal of funds from the financial as-
alternative form of financial assurance consistent with surance instrument exceeds by more than five percent
the requirements of this section, within thirty days after the withdrawal schedule stated in the approved closure
notification by the jurisdictional health department, and/or post-closure plan the closure and/or post-closure
(b) For applicable disposal facilities of this section, plan shall be amended. [Statutory Authority: RCW 70-
any income in excess of the cost estimate(s) accruing to .95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-30~ ~68,
the established closure or post-closure financial assur- filed 10/4/88.]
ance account will be at the owner's discretion as to the
use of said surplus funds. WAC 173-304-470 Other methods of solid waste
(c) A permittee may meet the requirements of this handling. (1) Applicability. This section applies to other
section by obtaining a written guarantee from the parent methods of solid waste handling such as a material re-
corporation of the permittee. The guarantor must meet source recovery system for municipal waste not specifi-
one of the financial tests described in (a)(vi)(A) or (B) cally identified elsewhere in this regulation, nor excluded
of this subsection, and must provide the documentation from this regulation.
required by (a)(vi)(C) of this subsection. The terms of (2) Requirements. Owners and operators of other
the guarantee must 'provide that: methods of solid waste handling shall:
(i) If the.permittee fails to perform final closure and, (a) Comply with the requirements in WAC 173-304--
wht~re required, provide post-closure care of a facility 405;
covered by the guarantee in accordance with the ap- (b) Obtain a permit under WAC 173-304-600 from
proved closure and post-closure plans, the guarantor will the jurisdictional health department, by submitting an
do so or establish a trust fund as specified in (a)(i) of application containing information requirid in WAC
this subsection in the name of the permittee. 173-304-600 (3)(a), and such other information as may
(ii) The guarantee will remain in force unless the be required by the jurisdictional health department and
guarantor sends notice of cancellation by certified mail the department, including:
ICh. 173-304 WAC~ 221 (~0/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-490
(i) Preliminary engineering reports and plans and (ii) The jurisdictional health department in consulta-
specifications; and tion with the department may specify additional or fewer
(ii) A closure plan. [Statutory Authority: Chapter 43- constituents depending upon the nature of the waste; and
.2lA RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304--470, (iii) Test methods used to detect the parameters of
filed 10/28/85.] (d)(i) of this subsection shall be EPA Publication Num-
ber SW-846, Test Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste
WAC 173-304-490 Ground water monitoring re- - Physical/Chemical Methods except for total coliform
quirements. (1) Applicability. These requirements apply which shall use the latest edition of Standard Methods
to owners and operators of landfills, piles, landspreading for the Examination o£ Water and Wastewater.
disposal facilities, and surface impoundments that are (e) The ground water monitoring program must in-
required to perform ground water monitoring under elude a determination of the ground water surface cie-
WAC 173-30~ ~00. ration each time ground water is sampled.
(2) Ground water monitoring requirements.. (f) The owner or operator shall use a statistical pro-
(a) The ground water monitoring system must consist cedure for determining whethe/ a significant change
of at least one background or upgradient well and three over background has occurred. The jurisdictional health
down gradient wells, installed at appropriate locations department will approve such a procedure with the
and depths to yield ground water samples from the up- guidance of the department.
per most aquifer and all hydraulically connected aqui- (g) The owner or operator must determine ground
fers below the active portion of the facility, water quality at each monitoring well at the compliance
(i) Represent the quality of background water that point at least quarterly during the life of an active area
has not been affected by leakage from the active area; (inclfiding the closure period) and the postclosurc care
and period. The owner or operator must express the ground
(ii) Represent the quality of ground water passing the water quality at each monitoring well in a form neces-
point of compliance. Additional wells may be required sary for the determination of statistically significant
by the jurisdictional health department in complicated increases.
hydrogeological settings or to define the extent of con- (h) The owner or operator must determine and report
tamination detected, the ground water flow rate and direction in the upper-
(b) All monitoring wells must be cased in a manner most aquifer at least annually.
that maintains the integrity of the monitoring well bore (i) If the owner or operator determines that there is a
hole. This casing must allow collection of representative statistically significant increase for parameters or con-
ground water samples. Wells must be constructed in stituents at any monitoring well at the compliance point,
such a manner as to prevent contamination of the the owner or operator must:
samples, the sampled strata, and between aquifers and (i) Notify the jurisdictional health department of this
water bearing strata and in accordance with chapter finding in writing within seven days of receipt of the
173-160 WAC, Minimum standards for construction sampling data. The notification must indicate what pa-
and maintenance of water wells, rameters or constituents have shown statistically signifi-
(c) The ground water monitoring program must in- cant increases;
elude at a minimum, procedures and techniques for: (ii) Immediately resample the ground water in all
(i) Decontamination of drilling and sampling monitoring wells and determine the concentration of all
equipment; constituents listed in the definition of contamination in
(ii) Sample collection; WAC 173-304-100 including additional constituents
(iii) Sample preservation and shipment; identified in the permit and whether there is a statis-
(iv) Analytical procedures and quality assurance; tically significant increase such that the ground water
(v) Chain of custody control; and performance standard has been exceeded, and notify the
(vi) Procedures to ensure employee health and safety jurisdictional health department within fourteen days of
during well installation and monitoring, receipt of the sampling data.
(d) Sample constituents. (j) The jurisdictional health department may require
(i) All facilities shall test for the following corrective action programs including facility closure if
parameters: the performance standard of WAC 173-304-460 (2)(a)
(A) Temperature; is exceeded and, in addition, may revoke any permit and
(B) Conductivity; require reapplication under WAC 173-304-600.
(C) pH; (3) Corrective action program. An owner or operator
(D) Chloride; required to establish a corrective action program under
(E) Nitrate, nitrite, and ammonia as nitrogen; this section must, at a minimum with the approval of the
(F) Sulfate; jurisdictional health officer:
(G) Dissolved iron; (a) Implement a corrective action program that re-
(H) Dissolved zinc and manganese; duces contamination and if possible prevents, constituents
(I) Chemical oxygen demand; from exceeding their respective concentration limits at
(J) Total organic carbon; and the compliance point by removing the constituents,
(K) Total coliform, treating them in place, or other remedial measures;
(10/4/88) ICh. 173-304 WAC---0 23]
173-304-490 Solid Waste ltandlinl~ .
(b) Begin corrective action according to a written and the applicant has filed an environmental checklist
schedule after the ground water performance standard is required under the State Environmental Policy Act
exceeded; rules, chapter 197-11 WAC.
(c) Terminate corrective action measures once the (b) Applications for a permit must contain the infor-
concentrations of constituents are reduced to levels be- mation set forth in subsection (3) of this section.
low the limits under WAC 173-304 460 (2)(a). [Statu- (c) Once the jurisdictional health department deter-
tory Authority: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 mines that an application for a permit is factually corn-
(Order 85-18), § 173-304 490, filed 10/28/85.] plete, it shall refer one copy to the appropriate regional
office of the department for review and comment.
WAC 173-304-600 Permit requirements for solid (d) The jurisdictional health department shall investi-
waste facilities. (1) Applicability. gate every application to determine whether the facilities
(a) All facilities which are subject to the standards of meet all applicable laws and ~'eg~alations, conforms with
WAC 173-304-130, 173-304-300, and 173-304 400 the apprOved comprehensive solid waste handling plan
are required to obtain permits. Permits are not 'required and complies with all zoning requirements.
for single family residences and single family farms (e) The jurisdictional health department may estab-
dumping or depositing solid waste resulting from their lish reasonable fees for permits and renewal of permits.
own activities on to or under the surface of land owned All permit fees collected by the health department shall
or leased by them when such action does not create a be deposited in the county treasury in the account from
nuisance, violate statutes, ordinances, or regulations, in- which the health department's operating expenses are
cluding this regulation, paid.
(b) Permits are not required for corrective actions at (0 The department shall report to the jurisdictional
solid waste handling facilities performed by the state health department its findings on each permit applica-
and/or in conjunction with the United States Environ- tion within forty-five days of receipt'of a complete ap-
mental Protection Agency to implement the Compre- plication or inform the jurisdictional health department
hensive Environmental Response Compensation and as to the status of the application. Additionally, the de-
Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), or corrective actions pertinent shall recommend for or against the issuance of
taken by others to comply with a state and/or federal each permit by the jurisdictional health department.
cleanup order provided that: (g) When the jurisdictional health department has
{i) The action results in an overall improvement of the evaluated all pertinent information, it may issue a per-
environmental impact of the site; mit. Every completed solid waste permit application
(ii) The action does not require or result in additional shall be approved or disapproved within ninety days al-
waste being dclivcred to thc site or increasc thc amount tcr its receipt by thc jurisdictional health department or
of waste or contamination present at thc site; the applicant shall be informed as to the status of the
(iii) The facility standards of WAC 173-304 400 are application.
met; and (h) Except for applications specified in subsection
(iv) The jurisdictional health department is informed (3)(h) of this section every permit issued by a jurisdic-
of thc actions to be taken and is given the opportunity to tional health department shall be on a format prescribed
review and comment upon the proposed corrective action by the department and shall contain specific require-
plans, ments necessary for the proper operation of the permit-
(c) Effective dates, The effective dates are as follows: ted site or facility including the requirement that final
(i) The permit requirements of this section apply to all engineering plans and specifications be submitted for
existing waste handling facilities eighteen months after approval to the jurisdictional health department.
the effective date of this regulation. (i) Ail issued permits must be filed with the depart-
(ii) Between the effective date of this regulation and ment no more than seven days after the date of issuance.
eighteen months thereafter, existing facilities will oper- (j) The owner or operator of a facility shall apply for
ate under the terms and conditions of existing permits renewal of the facility's permit annually. The jurisdic-
valid on the effective date of this regulation. Jurisdic- tional health department shall annually:
tional health departments shall incorporate compliance (i) Review the original application for compliance
schedules into valid existing permits; such compliance with these regulations and submit such additional infor-
schedules shall insure that existing facilities meet the cf- marion as spelled out in subsection (4) of this section;
fective dates of WAC 173-304-400(3). (ii) Review information collected from inspections,
(iii) New and expanded waste handling facilities shall complaints, or known changes in the operations;
meet the requirements of this section on the effective (iii) Collect the renewal fee;
date of this,regulation. (iv) Renew the permit; and
(2) Procedures for permits. (v) File the renewed permit with the department no
(a) Any owner or operator subject to the permit re- more than seven days after the date of issuance. The de-
quirements who intends to operate a facility must apply partment shall review and may appeal the renewal as set
for a permit with the jurisdictional health department, forth in RCW 70.95.185 and 70.95.190.
Filing shall not be complete until two copies of the ap- (3) Application contents for permits for new or ex-
plication have been signed by the owner and operator panded facilities.
and received by the jurisdictional health department,
[Ch. 173--304 WAC--=p 24] (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-600
(a) All permit applications except for inert waste, de- (E) Interim/final leachate collection, treatment, and
molition waste, special purpose landfills, woodwaste disposal;
landfill and recycling facilities applications, which are (F) Landfill gas con'trol and monitoring;
specified in (h) of this subsection, shall contain the (G) Trench design, fill methods, elevation of final
following: cover and bottom liner, and equipment requirements;
(i) A general description of the facility; and
(ii) The types of waste to be handled at the facility; (H) Closure/post-closure design, construction, main-
(iii) The plan of operation required by WAC 173- tenance, and land use.
304-405(2); (iii) An operation plan that addresses:
(iv) The form used to record weights or volumes re- (A) Operation and maintenance of leachate collection,
quired by WAC 173-304 405(3); treatment, and disposal systems;
(v) An inspection schedule and inspection log required (B) Operation and maintenance of landfill gas control
by WAC 173-304-405(5); and systems;
(vi) Documentation to show that any domestic or in- (C) Monitoring plans for ground water, surface water,
dustrial waste water treatment facility, such as a leach- and landfill gases to include sampling technique, fre-
ate treatment system, is being reviewed by the quency, handling, and analyses requirements;
department under chapter 173-240 WAC. (D) Safety and emergency accident/fire plans;
(b) Application contents for permits for new or ex- (E) Routine filling, grading, cover, and housekeeping;
panded landfill facilities, in addition to the requirements (F) Record system to address records on weights (or
of (a) of this subsection, each landfill application for a volumes), number of vehicles and the types of waste
permit must contain: received;
(i) A geohydrological assessment of the facility that (G) Vector control plans; and
addresses: (H) Noise control.
(A) Local/regional geology and hydrology, including (iv) Closure plan to address:
faults, unstable slopes and subsidence areas on site; (A) Estimate of closure season/year;
(B) Evaluation of bedrock and soil types and (B) Opacity of site in volume and tonnage;
properties; (C) Maintenance of active fill versus completed, final
(C) Depths to ground water and/or aquifer(s); covered acreage;
(D) Direction and flow rate of local ground water; (D) Estimated closure construction timing and notifi-
(E) Direction of regional ground water; cation procedures;
(F) Quantity, location and construction (where avail- (E) Inspection by regulatory agencies.
able) of private and public wells within a two thousand (v) Pest-closure plan to address:
foot radius of site; (A) Estimated time period for post-closure activities;
(G) Tabulation of all water rights for ground water (B) Site monitoring of landfill gas, ground water, and
and surface water within a two thousand foot radius of surface water;
the site; (C) Deed clause changes, land use, and zoning
(H) Identification and description of all surface wa- restrictions;
ters within a one-mile radius of the site; (D) Maintenance activities to maintain cover and
(I) Background ground and surface water quality as- run-off systems; and
sessment, and for expanded facilities, identification of (E) Identification of final closure costs including cost
impacts of existing facilities of the applicant to date calculations and the funding mechanism.
upon ground and surface waters from landfill ieachate (c) Application contents for new or expanded transfer
discharges; stations, drop box facilities, and baling and compaction
(J) Calculation of a site water balance; systems requiring a permit. In addition to the require-
(K) Conceptual design of a ground water and surface ments of (a) of this subsection, each applicable applica-
water monitoring system, including proposed installation tion for a permit must contain preliminary engineering
methods for these devices and where applicable a vadose report/plans and specifications that address:
zone monitoring plan; (i) The proposed facility's zoning status;
(L) Land use in the area, including nearby residences; (ii) The relationship to the county solid waste eom-
and prehensive plan and the area to be served by the facility;
(M) Topography of the site and drainage patterns, and
(ii) Preliminary engineering report/plans and specifi- (iii) The facility design to address how the facility
cations that address: shall meet requirements of WAC 173-304 410, includ-
(A) How. the facility will meet the locational start- lng closure.
dards of WAC 173-304-130; (d) Application contents for new or expanded surface
(B) Relationship of facility to county solid waste impoundments requiring a permit. In addition to the re-
comprehensive plan and the basis for calculating the fa- quirements of (a) of this subsection, each _applicable ap-
cility's life; plication for a permit must contain:
(C) The design of bottom and side liners; (i) A geohydrological assessment of the facility that
(D) Identification of borrow sources for daily and fi- addresses all of the factors of (b)(i) of this subsection;
hal cover, and soil liners;
00/,~/88) ICh. ~73-304 wnc---o ~l
173-304-600 Solid Waste Handling
(ii) Preliminary engineering report/plans and specifi- addition to the requirements of (a) of this subsection,
cations that address, where applicable: each application for a permit must contain:
(A) How the proposed facility will meet the locational (i) Preliminary engineering reports/plans and specifi-
standards of WAC 173-304-130; cations that address:
(B) The relationship of facility to the county solid (A) The relationship of the facility to the county solid
waste comprehensive plan; waste comprehensive plan and zoning;
(C) The design of liners and foundation to be incor- (B) The design of the storage and handling facilities
porated in the facilities design including the design on-site for incoming waste as well as fly ash, bottom ash
leachate of collection and treatment systems; and any other wastes produced by air or water pollution
(D) The design of ground water monitoring; controls; and
(E) The design of dikes including calculations on dike (C) The design of the incinerator or thermal treater,
stability analyses under conditions of liner failure; including changing or .fee~ing systems, combustion air
(F) Other design details, including sludge cleanout systems, combustion or reaction chambers, including
and disposal, overfilling alarms and inlet' designi and heat recovery systems, ash handling systems, and air
(G) Closure/post--closure design, construction main- pollution and water pollution control systems. Instru-
tenance and land use. mentation and monitoring systems design shall also be
(iii) An operation plan that addresses: included.
(A) Operation and maintenance of leachate collection (ii) An operation plan that addresses:
system, or ground water monitoring; (A) Cleaning of storage areas as required by WAC
(B) Operation and maintenance of overfilling equip- 173-304-440 (2)(a);
ment or details of filling and emptying techniques; (B) Alternative storage plans for breakdowns as re-
(C) Inspection of dikes and liners for integrity; and quired in WAC 173-30~ ~.~0 (2)(c);
(D) Safety and emergency plans. (C) Inspection to insure compliance with state and lo-
(iv) A closure plan to address: cai air pollution laws and to comply with WAC 173-
(A) Estimate of closure year and cost; 30~ ~05(5). The inspection log or summary must be
(B) Methods of removing wastes, liners and any con- submitted with the application; and
taminated soils, and location of final disposal; (D) How and where the fly ash, bottom ash and other
(C) Closure timing and notification procedures; and solid wastes will be disposed of.
(D) Final inspection by regulatory agencies. (iii) A closure plan to address:
(e) Application contents for new or expanded piles re- (A) Estimate of closure year and cost;
quiring a permit. In addition to the requirements of (a) (B) Methods of closure and methods of removing
of this subsection, each application for a permit must wastes, equipment, and location of final disposal;
contain: (C) Closure timing and notification procedures; and
(i) Preliminary engineering reports/plans and specifi- (D) Final inspection by regulatory agencies.
cations that address: (g) Application contents for new or expanded
(A) How the proposed facility will meet the locationai landspreading disposal facilities requiring a permit. In
standards of WAC 173-304-130; addition to the requirements of (a) of this subsection,
"(B) The relationship of the facility to the county solid each application for a permit must contain:
waste comprehensive plan and zoning; (i) A geohydrological assessment of the facility that
(C) The design of the liner or sealed surface upon addresses all of the factors of (b)(i) of this subsection;
which the liner rests, including an analysis of the liners (ii) Preliminary engineering reports/plans and specifi-
ability to withstand the stress; cations that address:
(D) The design of the run-on and run-off system; (A) How the proposed facility will meet the locational
(E) The design to avoid washout when the pile is Io- standards of WAC 173-304-130;
cared in a one hundred year floodplain; and (B) The relationship of the facility to the county solid
(F) Maximum elevation and boundaries of the waste waste comprehensive plan and the basis for calculating
pile. the facility's life;
(ii) An operation plan that addresses: (C) Waste analyses and methods to periodically sam-
(A) Methods of adding or removing wastes from the pie and analyze solid waste;
pile and equipment used; (D) Design of interim waste storage facilities if such
(B) Inspection of the liner for integrity; and facilities are not otherwise permitted by the department;
(C) Safety and emergency plans. (E) Design of run-on and run-off systems;
(iii) A closure plan to address: (F) A contour map of the active area showing con-
(A) Estimate of closure year and cost; tours to the nearest foot;
(B) Methods of removing wastes, liners and any con- (G) A ground water and surface water monitoring
taminated soils, and location of final disposal; program; and
(C) Closure timing and notification procedures; and (H) Access barriers such as fences, and warning signs.
(D) Final inspection by regulatory agencies. (iii) An operation plan that addresses:
(fl Application contents for new or expanded energy (A) Operation and maintenance of run--off and run-
recovery and incinerator facilities requiring a permit. In on systems;
ICh. 173-304 WAC----p 26] (10/4/88)
Solid Waste Handling 173-304-700
(B) Methods of taking ground water samples and for jurisdictional health officer for a variance from any sec-
maintaining ground water monitoring systems; tion of this regulation. The application shall be aec. om-
(C) Methods of applying wastes to meet the require- panied by such information as the jurisdictional health
ments of WAC 173-304-450 (2)(d): department may require. The jurisdictional health de-
(I) Estimated multiples of agronomic rates; partment may grant such variance, but only after due
(II) Frequency of disoing; and notice or a public hearing if requested, if it finds that:
(III) Avoidance of standing water. (a) The solid waste handling practices or location do
(D) The written contract required between landown- not endanger public health, safety or the environment;
ers, waste generators and waste operators, and
(iv) Closure plan to address: (b) Compliance with the regulation from which vari-
(A) Estimate of closure season/year; ance is sought would produce hardship without equal or
(B) Capacity of site in volume and tonnage; greater benefits Fo the public..' .,~.
(C) Year-to-year maintenance of the active area vet- '(2) No. variance shall be granted pursuant to this sec-
sus completed, final covered acreage; --- tion until the jurisdictional health department has con~
(D) Closure construction timing and notification pro- sidered the relative interests of the applicant, other
cedures; and owners of property likely to be affected by the handling
(E) Final inspection by regulatory agencies, practices and the general public.
(v) Post-closure plan to address: (3) Any variance or renewal shall be granted within
(A) Estimated time period for post-closure activities; the requirements of subsection (1) of this ~tion and for
(B) Site monitoring of ground water; time period and conditions consistent with the reasons
(C) Deed clause changes, land use, and zoning therefor, and within the following limitations:
restrictions; (a) If thc variance is granted on the ground that there
(D) Maintenance activities to maintain cover and is no practicable means known or available for the adc-
run-off systems; quate prevention, abatement, or control of pollution in-
(E) Plans for food chain crops being grown on the ac- volved, it shall be only until the necessary means for
tire areas, after closure; and prevention, abatement or control become known and
(F) Identification of final closure costs including cost available and subject to the taking of any substitute or
calculations and the funding mechanism, alternative measures that the jurisdictional health de-
(h) Application contents for new or expanded inert partment may prescribe;
waste and demolition waste, special purpose landfill, (b) The jurisdictional health department may grant a
woodwaste landfills, and recycling facilities, variance conditioned by a time table if:
Applications for permits subject to the standards of (i) Compliance with the regulation will require
WAC 173-304-300, 173-304-460(5), 173-304-461, spreading of costs over a considerable time period; and
and 173-3(~ ~62 shall be on forms whose content shall (ii) The time table is for a .period that is needed to
be specified by the jurisdictional health department, comply with the regulation.
(4) Application contents for existing facilities renew- (4) Any variance granted pursuant to this section may
ing permits. All owners or operators of existing facilities be renewed on terms and conditions and for periods
shall renew permits or application forms specified in which would be appropriate on initial granting of a vari-
subsection (3) of this section. Previous information sub- ance. No renewal thereof shall be granted, unless fol-
mitted to the jurisdictional health department may be lowing a public hearing on the complaint or due notice,
referred to on the application forms. Changes in operat- the jurisdictional health department finds the. renewal is
ing methods or other changes must be noted on the ap- justified. No renewal shall be granted except on applica-
plication in order to be authorized by permit, tion. Any such application shall be made at least sixty
(5) Inspections. As a minimum, annual inspections of days prior to the expiration of the variance. Immediately
ali permitted solid waste facilities shall be performed by upon receipt of an application for renewal, the jurisdic-
the jurisdictional health department. Any duly author- tional health department shall give public notice of such
ized officer, employee, or representative of the jurisdic- application in accordance with rules and regulations of
tionai health officer or his designee having jurisdiction the jurisdictional health department.
may enter and inspect any property, premises or place at (5) An application for a variance, or for the renewal
any reasonable time for the purpose of determining thereof, submitted to the jurisdictional health depart-
compliance with this chapter, and relevant laws and reg- ment shall be approved or disapproved by the jurisdic-
ulations. Findings shall be noted and kept on file. A copy tionai health department within ninety days of receipt
of the inspection report or annual summary shall be fur- unless the applicant and the jurisdictional health depart-
nished to the site operator. [Statutory Authority: RCW ment agree to a continuance.
70.95.215. 88-20-066 (Order 88-28), § 173-304-600, (6) No variance shall be granted by a jurisdictional
filed 10/4/88. Statutory Authority: Chapter 43.21A health department except with the approval and written
RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-600, filed concurrence of the department prior to action on the
10/28/85.] variance by the jurisdictional health department.
(7) Variances granted by a jurisdictional health de-
WAC 173-304-700 Variances. (1)Any person who partment will be accepted as variances under this
owns or operates a solid waste facility may apply to the regulation.
(10/4/88) [Ca. 17~-304 WAC--~ 27i
173-304-700 Solid Waste Handling
(8) Public notice shall be given by mailing a notice of
thc variance application to persons who have written to
the juriadictional health department asking to be notified
of all variance requcats. [Statutory Authority: Chapter
43.21A RCW. 85-22-013 (Order 85-18), § 173-304-
70O, raed 10/28/85.]
WAC 173-304-9901 Maximum contaminant levels
for ground water. Maximum contaminant levels for
ground water shall be those specified in chapter 248-54
WAC, as the primary drinking water standards. Analyt-
ical methods for these contaminants may be found in the .,- -
Code of Federal Regulations 40 CFR Part 141. (These
contaminant levels are to be considered i'nte~i'm levels for
the purpose of regulating solid waste handling facilities
and shah be used until such time as the department
tablishes ground water quality standards for all types of
activities impacting ground water.) [Statutory Author-
ity: Chapter 43.21A RCW. 85-22--013 (Order 85-18), §
173-304-990t, filed 10/28/85.1
ICh. 17s-~o4 WAC---~ ~Sl (~0/~/ss)