Community – Involvement – Wildlife Habitat Council
Wildlife Habitat Council
Alliance Landfill
Taylor, PA - Certified since 2004
The Alliance Landfill in Taylor, Pennsylvania, sets aside over 450 of its nearly 800 acres for wildlife habitat projects. The site, which has been WHC certified since 2004, currently maintains several innovative and pragmatic projects. These projects include a man-made wetland area, a community landscaping project and an annual habitat workshop.
As part of its mitigation requirements, the Alliance Landfill developed a conservation area six miles south of the landfill called the Duryea Wetlands. This conservation area, located near the confluence of the Lackawanna and Susquehanna rivers, consists of a variety of habitats such as upland forests, scrub/shrub habitat and emergent wetlands. Invasive purple loosestrife is controlled by galerucella beetles and other vegetation is treated annually. Monitoring reports show that the Duryea Wetlands are thriving. The wildlife team hopes that in the near future it can transfer ownership of the site to the Lackawanna Valley Conservancy and establish the Duryea Wetlands as a community based environmental education resource.
Officially known as its Vegetative Cover Demonstration Project, the landfills community landscaping initiative is perhaps its most innovative project to date. Started in 2004 amid complaints from neighbors of the engineered appearance of the landfill cap, Alliance Landfill employees and community members created a landscaping project that would provide a natural looking landscape without compromising the caps function. With permission from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, the site created a series of test plots to determine the effectiveness of several types of vegetative cover and continues to monitor them for soil stabilization and root penetration. Currently, four types of vegetative plots are being tested, including native grasses, native and naturalized meadow, tree or forest cover and natural succession. If the experiment is successful, the project will not only improve community relations and the aesthetic appeal of the landfill, but also the quality of wildlife habitat available.
The Alliance Landfill is a great resource for site-based environmental education. In February 2005, wildlife team members and landfill employees hosted the first annual Camp Kestrel Habitat Workshop. The event has since been attended by over 400 people. Participants were able to learn about environmental issues and take part in habitat enhancement projects by building songbird and kestrel nest boxes that were later hung at various locations around the landfill. Since then, the site has hosted several other educational events and recently partnered with a local Girl Scout troop to build a flower and vegetable garden on its premises.
Alliance Landfills Camp Kestrel
Taylor, PA - certified since 2006
Alliance Landfills Camp Kestrel, a classroom in the community, is the cornerstone of the facilities Corporate Lands for Learning (CLL) program. Camp Kestrel habitat workshops conducted between 2004 and 2006 attracted more than 500 participants. Participants build and monitor nest boxes, tour the facility to see the programs first hand, participate in low-litter lunches and learn about raptors and native species that inhabit the site. These large-scale events serve both adults and children and make available the service of both committed Waste Management volunteers and eager community partners including the Lackawanna County Extension Service, the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Abington Heights School teachers and students, Keystone College and the Pennsylvania Raptor and Wildlife Association.
In addition to the on-site educational offerings for adults and children, the Alliance Landfill engages local Girl Scouts in planting projects, including sponsoring a 1,600-foot vegetable and herb garden with Girl Scout Troop #202 of Old Forge. Camp Kestrels outreach program extends into local schools with programs linked to the Pennsylvania State Standards. These programs combine facts about recycling and technologies used at the landfill with information about the wildlife that thrive there due to active conservation efforts.
American Landfill
Waynesburg, Ohio - Certified since 2004
Waste Management American Landfill consists of approximately 1,072 acres of land, of which 236 acres are currently permitted for waste disposal. The conservation easements preserve 145 acres of wetlands. American Landfill is taking a proactive approach with its environmental stewardship efforts. New wetlands will be constructed prior to any impact that will occur to existing wetlands.
The ultimate goal for wildlife team members at American Landfill includes the protection and enhancement of biodiversity. Team members have determined that there is a need for better protection and to provide more food and cover for wildlife. For the last two years, Brownie Troops and school classes helped to plant native trees to provide a shelterbelt for nesting and hibernating wildlife. In order to provide food and cover for wildlife, team members will be planting native bushes and shrubs.
American Landfill team members will continue to keep community members involved in their habitat enhancement projects. They have already had several classes of students and community leaders participate in their Annual Earth Day Tree Planting Event. Future plans include partnering with local community groups to build and install bird boxes. In addition, team members look to expand their educational tour program on wildlife habitats. In doing so, American Landfill will further educate schools and the community on how to provide habitats for local wildlife.
Altamont Landfill and Resource Recovery Facility
Livermore, CA - Certified since 2003
Waste Management of Alameda County's Altamont Landfill and Resource Recovery Facility's (ALRRF) property encompasses approximately 2,100 acres in Livermore, California. Of these 2,100 acres, 1,300 are actively managed for wildlife habitat opportunities. The ALRRF is regularly used by a number of special-status species that are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, California Endangered Species Act and other federal and state regulations. These species include the federally endangered San Joaquin kit fox, federally threatened California red-legged frog, state proposed western burrowing owl and federally proposed California tiger salamander. ALRRF has implemented plans to protect habitat for these species, and has instituted protection plans for these species during project development activities.
One aspect of site management includes a controlled grazing plan
for cattle. Of the total site acreage, about 1,200 acres are currently
leased to a local rancher to graze cattle. Livestock grazing is compatible
with, and often a necessary action to support sensitive species.
Appropriate levels of grazing maintain annual grassland at low heights,
which is required for the California ground squirrel, which is the
prey base for the San Joaquin kit fox in the northern range. It is
also the principal species responsible for initial burrow construction
that are used by San Joaquin kit foxes and western burrowing owls.
Proper grazing also keeps vegetation low, which is required by the San Joaquin kit fox and western burrowing owl for unobstructed views of approaching predators. Limited livestock grazing around ponds enhances habitat suitability for California red-legged frogs and California tiger salamanders by controlling cattails and other plants that can overtake a pond, reducing the area of standing water. Through this successful grassland management program, employees at the ALRRF are protecting and enhancing habitat for a number of critically imperiled wildlife species.
Austin Community Landfill
Austin, TX - Certified since 2006
The Austin Community Landfill resides principally on abandoned agricultural property on 360 acres outside of Austin, Texas. Acquired by Waste Management, Inc. in the 1980s, the site serves as a private landfill for the disposal of municipal waste for the communities of Travis County, Texas. Recent suburban expansion in the area has intensified the need for wildlife habitat protection.
The landfill site is working to develop a positive community relationship with the suburban neighborhoods and to operate the landfill in an environmentally conscious manner. The wildlife team carefully developed a management plan to work towards an increase in biodiversity, which includes one, three and five year goals. The team focused on restoration of the property from post agriculture to prairie ecosystems and the restoration of existing cattle tank ponds and a tributary of the Little Walnut River. In 2005, the program was initiated with the formation of a site species inventory. Since then, many of the proposed wildlife projects to improve this biodiversity have taken flight.
During the summer of 2005, YMCA Environmental Campers planted a butterfly garden to increase the biodiversity of insect populations. The campers also helped clear the brush for local Cub Scouts and the wildlife team to construct a 2.1-mile nature trail through the site. The trail passes through the Texas wildflower meadow and prairie habitat. This 10-acre area was cleared of trash and reseeded with native grasses and wildflowers including big bluestem, Texas cupgrass and purple prairie clover. The trail will soon be extended to provide access to the second pond.
The wildlife team also works to increase avian biodiversity by providing artificial nesting habitat. Nest boxes were constructed and installed to house purple martins, eastern bluebirds and wood ducks. YMCA campers constructed ten nest boxes and local Boy Scouts built three wood duck boxes which were placed at the cattle tanks. Future plans include the installation of screech owl and chickadee boxes, the installation of bat houses, wetland and riparian restoration, the building of research horse stables and the development of an environmental education program.
Blackwell Landfill
Sarnia, Ontario - Certified since 2004
The Blackwell Landfill is located on 111 acres in an urban community of southern Ontario. Logan Pond borders the site to the north and former sediment ponds which have naturalized into a wetland community form the southern border. An abandoned railway track that was refurbished as the Howard Watson walking trail runs along the north side of the parkland. In addition to the ten acres of wetlands, the site contains uncut grasslands and 15 acres of tree and shrub area.
After purchasing the landfill in 1996, Waste Management of Canada
Corporation worked closely with the Landfill Advisory Committee,
Lambton Wildlife Incorporated and the St. Clair Region Conservation
Authority to develop an environmentally sound closure plan for the
site. The wildlife team at Blackwell determined three main goals
to focus its efforts on: returning the property to a naturalized
setting, creating a seasonal habitat for migratory wildlife and establishing
an environment for community members to enjoy nature viewing.
The Blackwell landfill was closed in March of 2001. Since then, grasslands have been rehabilitated and native tree and shrub plantations have been developed on site. The growing plant communities will continue to be maintained by site employees and the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority. The wildlife team is also working to re-establish natural windbreaks using trees and shrubs to create seasonal habitat for migratory birds and animals. Initial seeding for this project began in 2003 with additional plantings each year.
In 2005, the Blackwell Trails Park officially opened, providing the community with an excellent opportunity to experience a natural setting in their own back yards. A pathway winds through the property and connects with the Howard Watson trail at the sites northern border. The trail is complemented with seating areas and interpretive signage which will be added to as flora and fauna species mature. Plans also exist for a future educational pollinator garden
Chaffee Landfill
Chaffee, NY - Certified since 2007
Chaffee Landfill is located on 488 acres in Chaffee, New York. The site's 299 wildlife acres include wetlands, forests and fields. Four threatened plants, Sartwell's sedge, Schweinitz' sedge, Blunt Spikerush and Woodland Bluegrass are preserved and protected at the site.
Ninety-three acres of the property are native grasslands maintained by rotational mowing. Chaffee's wildlife team erected nest boxes in suitable habitat on site for bluebirds, bats and wood ducks. Regular species inventories are conducted by two local environmental organizations, Earth Spirit and Owl Facts.
The wildlife team partners with Earth Spirit and the University of Buffalo to provide summer ecology camps for middle school students. The team also works with Owl Facts and other local wildlife rehabilitators and environmental organizations to provide environmental education to the public. Chaffee staff conducts 150 educational tours annually with up to 600 participants. In addition, Chaffee provides an annual scholarship for local students majoring in environmental science. Future plans include developing a nature trail and expanding educational programs with the aid of Earth Spirit.
Crossroads Landfill
Norridgewock, ME - Certified since 2007
The Crossroads Landfill is an 817-acre site located in rural Maine. The 500 acres of land managed for wildlife habitat include wetland, mixed forest and grassland habitats. Adjacent properties are comprised primarily of agricultural and forested land.
The wildlife team is divided into subgroups to manage invasive species, wetland habitat and the black spruce and orchard areas. Biodiversity is enhanced in the 16.5 acres of wetlands located on site. Native vegetation was planted in the area and basking logs were added for reptiles and amphibians. Invasive species are routinely controlled in the wetlands and other areas of the site. The wildlife team works with local boy scouts to install and monitor wood duck boxes. The team also monitors and maintains the 5,500 black spruce trees planted in 1993, along with a pre-existing orchard area.
The team actively partners with the Town of Norridgewock and Ducks Unlimited, Inc. on habitat projects. Geoscience students from Colby College and secondary education students from the local high school conduct various environmental studies on site.
CWM Chemical Services
Model City, NY - Certified since 2007
CWM Chemical Services, LLC Model City is a commercial hazardous waste treatment, storage and disposal facility that encompasses 750 acres. Approximately 400 acres of the site are composed of wetlands, forests and grasslands. Wildlife enhancement plans are designed around restrictions and regulations applied to the landfill due to its contents.
The CWM facility introduced 5,000 trees, shrubs and plants of 21 species to 125 acres of grasslands. Mowing in the area is scheduled for late summer to allow the completion of nesting and breeding activities. The wildlife team and Niagara River Anglers rescue trout and salmon stranded in drainage ways on site and returns those rescued to a tributary of Twelve Mile Creek. The CWM Landfill conducts an annual open house for 500 participants and provides visitors gifts of birdhouses or tree saplings. The wildlife team is currently working with Bat Conservation International and the Boy Scouts of America to create and construct bat boxes for the wetland area.
The CWM Landfill also partnered with Niagara Tourism and Convention Corporation's Fish Hatchery Project, Nickel City Reptiles, Second Chance Wildlife and the Primate Sanctuary on various projects.
El Sobrante Landfill
Corona, CA - Certified since 2003
The El Sobrante Landfill is a municipal solid waste facility that is owned and operated by Waste Management, Inc. A Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) approved by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Game covers the active landfill, future expansion phases and undisturbed open space on the property (Plan area). The Plan area is comprised of approximately 1,333 acres. The landfill area constitutes approximately 645 acres of the total property, while undisturbed open spaces account for approximately 688 acres and is located south of Lake Matthews in western Riverside County, California.
The Plan area is located within a regionally significant area for
both the Stephens' kangaroo rat and the coastal California gnatcatcher.
The HCP provides connectivity between the habitat on-site and sections
of the Lake Matthews-Estelle Mountain Reserve, which is in turn linked
to another parcel of preserved land. El Sobrante Landfill's long-term
Stephens' kangaroo rat HCP combines the addition of occupied habitat
and adaptive management measures when necessary, and is designed
to ensure the continued existence of Stephens' kangaroo rat in its
natural ecological region. The coastal California gnatcatchers in
the Plan area are part of a high-density gnatcatcher population in
northwestern Riverside County. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
estimates that there are 300 pairs of the highly sensitive species
present in the region.
A Habitat Management Committee (HMC) oversees management measures covered by the HCP. Employees are engaged in resource management and education opportunities, but all changes or recommendations are approved first by the HMC. Habitat enhancements undertaken on-site include access control, invasive species control, fire management, litter and refuse removal, species and habitat monitoring and project progression review and wildlife control. Restoration and revegetation projects include activities such as salvaging topsoil, harvesting cactus and many-stemmed dudleya, maintaining salvaged plants in nurseries, collecting native shrub and annual wildflower seed and revegetating and monitoring Riversidian sage scrub habitat.
Geneva Landfill
Geneva, OH - Certified since 2007
The Geneva Landfill is a 436-acre facility located in northeast Ohio. Several years ago the site constructed over six acres of new wetlands, and the Geneva Landfill far exceeded the regulatory requirements. The facility maximized shoreline sinuosity to create diverse microhabitats, retained tree stumps for use by wildlife, and uses the wetland to provide educational opportunities for local schools and the public.
The wetland was constructed so that its hydrology fluctuates with natural cycles and is independent of human maintenance. The wetland contains native emergent and shoreline vegetation planted by the habitat team, as well as other species that were apparently seeded by visiting birds. The team monitors for establishment of both the intended native plant community and invasive plants on a monthly basis. Only a few miles south of Lake Erie, the wetland's open water and extensive shoreline provide important stopover and breeding habitat for migrating waterfowl and wading birds. In addition, seven frog and toad species, as well as several salamanders, have been documented using the wetland.
The wildlife team partners with the Geneva School District for programs that include wetlands education and Earth Day tree plantings. Plans are in the works to offer additional educational opportunities and to partner with birding organizations for detailed monitoring.
Grand Central Sanitary Landfill
Plainfield Township, Northampton County, Pa - Certified since 2007
The Grand Central Sanitary Landfill occupies a 537.5-acre tract of tract in Plainfield Township in Northampton County. Most of the property is forested with open field buffer areas adjacent to areas with a long history of slate mining. More than 200 acres of the site are available as wildlife habitat.
In order to manage this expansive area for a diversity of wildlife species, the 12-member wildlife team at the GCSL participates in numerous habitat enhancement programs. In 2005, a GCSL environmental field technician saw the potential for erecting eastern bluebird boxes around the site. Following encouragement from the landfill's district manager, a team of employees erected nine nest boxes, which successfully fledged 58 bluebirds and tree swallows. From that point on, wildlife habitat management at GCSL dramatically changed into a well-rounded, aggressive plan focused on using the site's resources to benefit native wildlife species and to promote environmental education. The nest box monitoring program alone has grown to include a total of 25 boxes for eastern bluebirds, tree swallows, American kestrels and wood ducks.
The wildlife team designed management programs for the extensive grasslands on site. One grassland management effort focuses on a 41-acre tract of land whose open fields serve as a buffer to the 52-acre Old Landfill and the 87-acre operating landfill. Employees at the GCSL work with the Lehigh Valley Greenways Grasslands Partnership to plant and manage these grasslands for the benefit of wildlife species and to form the basis for environmental education programs on site. A rotational mowing regime is applied in six grassland plots that will ultimately represent three years of successional plant growth and provide varying nesting, cover and food resources for a variety of wildlife. Team members also maintain plots of native warm-season grasses in this buffer area.
Team members expanded the grassland management program to include the 52-acre Old Landfill. In 2006, around the time nest boxes were erected in this area, managers at GCSL adopted a delayed-mowing program for the benefit of wildlife species. Employees at the GCSL also worked to enhance the Little Bushkill Creek tributary located on GCSL property through channel dredging, sediment removal and bank stabilization. This project will be used as a hands-on learning tool for the Pen Argyl Area High School Aquatic Biology class.
GROWS and Tullytown Facilities
Tullytown, PA - Certified since 2001
The 6,000-acre GROWS/Tullytown complex, owned and operated by Waste Management of Pennsylvania (WM), has a long history of human use for a variety of commercial, industrial and agricultural purposes. It is located in an industrial area, partially in Falls Township and partially in the Tullytown Borough. Since WM acquired the site in 1984, wildlife habitat enhancement and protection has been a primary focus. The habitat program at the GROWS/Tullytown facility has involved more than 100 employees since its inception and manages more than 3,000 acres for wildlife, providing an important sanctuary in this highly developed region.
First WHC certified in 2001, the GROWS/Tullytown landfill continues
to expand its habitat program and community partnerships. Projects
are developed to cover a wide range of habitat needs for wildlife
at the site. Various food plots are planted and rotated on a yearly
basis to provide different food sources for wildlife. Water quality
tests are performed throughout the year at the onsite lakes to monitor
pH, dissolved oxygen, coliform bacteria and salinity. The wildlife
team created protected nesting and basking areas for the red-bellied
turtle (Pseudemys rubriventris), which is a threatened species in
the State of Pennsylvania. A native tree nursery is maintained and
replenished as needed, which provides saplings for planting projects
throughout the site.
The landfill has also actively pursued partnerships with local organizations and participation in activities by community members. Partnership for the Delaware Estuary has been actively involved with Waste Management in planning and implementation of projects at the site. A partnership with the Pennsbury School District allows local schools to use the site as an outdoor classroom for school projects, tours and teacher workshops to further environmental education in the community. Local students have been involved in maintaining and monitoring the nest box program at the landfill. Over 130 students and teachers from Herbert Hoover Elementary School partnered with site employees to plant over 50 native trees for the first Arbor Day Tree Planting Program. The site has also been home to research activities by students from Temple University. The information garnered from the research has been used to guide management decisions at the site.
GROWS/Tullytown serves as a partner in education with schools in the Pennsbury School District. The philosophy behind their Corporate Lands for Learning program is that "environmental awareness extends beyond the walls of the classroom." The facility has offered Pennsbury students a "classroom in the community" to study the basics of ecology, land use, air and water quality for well over a decade.
Waste Management employees worked with the Village Park Elementary School and community members, including the Audubon Society, to develop an outdoor classroom at Village Park. The Pennsbury Center for Student Learning and the North Penn Alternative School use the wildlife habitat to provide environmental education for students in a non-traditional learning environment. The Oxford Elementary School studied a program titled, "Habitats and Environments" concerning native species of plants and animals.
High Acres Landfill and Recycling Center
Monroe County, NY - Certified since 2006
The High Acres Landfill and Recycling Center is an 869-acre facility located in Monroe County, New York. In addition to the active and closed landfill areas, the property is composed of a variety of habitat types, including forested wetlands, hardwood forests, fallow farm fields and former pastures, floodplain forests and emergent marsh. Approximately 440 acres of the site are managed for wildlife habitat enhancement projects.
Eighteen wetlands areas are delineated on the site, with many other vernal pools and undocumented wetlands scattered throughout the property, making High Acres an important area for amphibian species. Since 2003, the volunteers at the site have participated in an amphibian monitoring project following a protocol developed for the Marsh Monitoring Program of Bird Studies Canada (BSC). Surveys are conducted three times during the spring and summer months, and the data are submitted to BSC for inclusion in the Great Lakes Marsh Monitoring Program. The program is sponsored by the US Environmental Protection Agency and Environment Canada.
Grassland meadows, including those on the landfill cap, have been placed on a biannual mowing schedule to improve habitat for grassland-nesting birds. Mowing is performed late in the growing season so as to not interfere with the breeding season of grassland birds. Surveys performed in collaboration with the New York Department of Environmental Conservations Atlas 2002 Breeding Bird Survey confirmed breeding of several species of special concern, including vesper sparrow, bobolink and grasshopper sparrow. Nest boxes placed on the landfill also attract breeding pairs of American kestrel. In 2000, 15 nest boxes were placed around the site targeting various bird species. High Acres plans to install additional boxes for wood ducks and bats in the future. The facility is also testing the viability of planting spruce trees and shrubs on the landfill cap to promote greater diversity.
The facility also contains four miles of hiking trails, called the Trails at High Acres, which pass through seven different plant communities. The trails offer the community ample recreational opportunities and include a strong environmental education focus. Plans for expansion and improvement of the trail system are continuously being developed with the help of local partnerships.
Hillsboro Landfill
Hillsboro, OR - Certified since 2003
Waste Management, Inc. (WM) operates Hillsboro Landfill, a construction and demolition waste landfill, on an approximately 420-acre site in rural Washington County, Oregon. The landfill began operation on the site in 1962, and was purchased by WM in 1993. Throughout this period, the facility's staff has established a long history of environmental stewardship while partnering with local environmental organizations and becoming involved in community service and education. Seven of the fifteen permanent staff members actively participate in these ongoing projects.
The centerpiece of the landfill's Wildlife Habitat Program is a large wetland restoration project that was initiated in response to state and federal permitting requirements associated with various landfill expansion projects. This ongoing project will eventually result in the conversion of over 125 acres of farmed Taulatin River floodplain into riparian wetlands. WM began the first phase of its three phase wetland restoration plan in 1989, and is currently moving into the final phase of the restoration, having completed approximately 60 acres as of 2002.
The staff also manages a number of ponds and natural areas adjacent
to the landfill that provide valuable habitat just outside the Taulatin
River floodplain, including a complex of three large ponds and a
mature forest stand supporting a large heron rookery. In addition,
several of the existing buffer corridors of vegetation that separate
landfill facilities from adjacent properties provide additional habitat
for local wildlife, particularly for neo-tropical migratory birds.
Besides conducting five to ten tours on-site annually, the facility and its employees actively support the adjacent Jackson Bottom Wetland Preserve. Members of the Hillsboro Landfill staff have served on the Jackson Bottom steering committee for over four years. Since the 1980's, WM has helped with the Master Planning efforts at the preserve. They lend equipment, provide personnel for project tours or donate funding for the restoration efforts.
Kirby Canyon Recycling & Disposal
Morgan Hill, CA - Certified since 2002
The wildlife team at Kirby Canyon Recycling & Disposal is committed to providing solid waste management services while proactively protecting and enhancing the serpentine soil grasslands and populations of endangered and threatened species present on site. The property encompasses approximately 827 acres, with 255 acres devoted solely to habitat enhancement projects and scientific study. The ecosystem is one of the San Francisco Bay area's few remaining serpentine soil grasslands that support the federally listed bay checker-spot butterfly and rare plants such as jewel-flower. The site also supports the threatened California red-legged frog.
The Kirby Canyon Landfill Conservation Trust funds and oversees activities
related to conservation of the bay checker-spot butterfly. The wildlife
team fenced off 250 acres of prime butterfly habitat and placed grazing
restrictions on the area to protect the plant community on which
the butterfly depends for food, protection and reproduction. The
team also initiated studies and experiments into methods to restore
the final landfill slopes to serpentine grassland habitat. Employees
began work on a Habitat Conservation Plan for the entire site with
assistance from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Completion of
the HCP and accompanying Implementation Agreement will further commit
employees to protecting the endangered and threatened species on
site.
Organizations such as the California Native Plant Society, Santa
Clara Valley Audubon Society, Stanford University and Western Washington
University collaborate with the wildlife team.
Local experts and university students help the team monitor habitats
and conduct studies to test whether enhancement programs benefit
their targeted species. The wildlife team and its partners annually
monitor the bay checker-spot butterfly population, take inventories
of plant species in the serpentine grassland, and study the effects
of grazing and nutrient-cycling in the grassland. They also monitor
the California red-legged frog population, which uses a constructed
wetland area on the site. Wetland vegetation introduced to this area
provides cover and egg attachment sites for frogs. Future plans include
installation of an additional wetland area to provide extra habitat
for rare plants and animals, as well as continuation of monitoring
activities for the rare species that inhabit the site.
Magog Landfill
Eastern Townships of Quebec, Canada - Certified since 2004
The Magog Landfill is located in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, a popular outdoor tourist destination approximately 120 kilometers southeast of Montreal. Forested areas are the major natural component at the Magog Landfill. Part of the property is occupied by balsam fir and red maple stands, while other areas are dominated by early successional species such as red maple, pin cherry and quaking aspen. The northern part of the property is characterized by older stands of yellow and grey birch, beech and eastern hemlock. An intermittent stream is also found on site and leads to the Beaver Pond which covers one acre.
The Magog wildlife team initiated their wildlife habitat enhancement program by starting a beaver habitat restoration project. Considering the unique location of the site, implementing a project that would benefit a wildlife species emblematic of the Canadian environment was seen as a great opportunity. The project benefits the health of the aquatic ecosystem and also benefits other species known to frequent the property. More specifically, the site shows a strong use of the resources on site by white-tailed deer and a moose has been spotted several times by employees. The presence of tracts of forested landscape offer valuable bird habitat on site.
Mill Seat Landfill
Bergen, NY - Certified since 2004
The Mill Seat Landfill is located in a rural community of New York. The natural areas on the 385-acre property include upland deciduous woodlands, deciduous swamp, fields, successional shrub upland habitat and marshes.
The Mill Seat Landfill's original wildlife habitat management plan was developed in 1992. The plan instituted many habitat protection and enhancement practices, which were continued when Waste Management assumed operations of the landfill in January 2002. This landfill is one of the few solid waste disposal facilities in New York that went through a rigorous site selection process prior to its construction. The landfill has a double containment liner that goes above and beyond federal regulations.
An employee wildlife team implements a variety of ongoing projects to maintain and improve the wildlife habitat. The sites undisturbed wetland areas are passively managed, protected by fencing. The team erected nest boxes for eastern bluebirds, tree swallows, wood ducks, screech owls, bats and American kestrels throughout the property. Scheduled mowing in the fall of alternate years helps to manage the meadows for wildlife and biennial plant species. Brush piles were placed along the edge of the woods to enhance cover for wildlife and conifers were planted to increase diversity on site. Monitoring and reporting of vegetation and wildlife diversity in the wetland habitat occurs on an annual basis. The Mill Seat Landfill also entered into a partnership with the Black Creek Wildlife Station to facilitate the release of rehabilitated animals on site. A total of 74 animals including red-tailed hawk and red fox were released at the site.
Besides the enhancement and monitoring of wildlife habitat, the employees at the Mill Seat Landfill regularly provide community outreach tours of the facility to various organizations. The tours focus on the operation of the landfill and highlight the ongoing wildlife habitat enhancement activities at the facility. The site also constructed trails in a wetland area to allow community members to easily observe wildlife. Through papers and presentations delivered at conferences for solid waste management professionals, the success at the Mill Seat Landfill hopes to inspire other facilities in the field to create successful programs of their own.
Mountain View Reclamation Landfill
Franklin County, PA - Certified since 2002
The Mountain View Reclamation Landfill site formerly was an apple orchard, Christmas tree farm and shale mine. Now, 500 of the site's 750 acres are reserved for wildlife habitat. The site is surrounded by rural countryside, gently rolling hills and mountains, and woodlands consisting of maples, oaks, ash, gum, dogwood, redbud, sycamore, Canadian hemlock and pines. The wildlife team regularly tests water quality in the three tributaries of Conococheaque Creek that cross the site, as well as the ten ponds on site. Results of the testing are shared with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection as required.
The wildlife team members work with numerous partners, from other corporations to county and state agencies. The Mountain View Reclamation site sponsors and participates annually in Earth Day events for the Greencastle-Antrim School District, and gives tours of the site to students and the general public.
The wildlife team implements a deer management plan for deer herd growth and control, and compiling on-site observations of deer numbers. Currently 30 to 35 deer are present at the facility.
To meet their objective of enhancing bird habitat, the team installed many nest boxes, including 16 bluebird boxes, two American kestrel boxes and mallard boxes near the ponds. All boxes are monitored weekly, and plans are in place to clean the boxes after the nesting season. The staff instituted a no-mow zone around the ponds to enhance waterfowl habitat, and will continue to monitor for any invasive plant species.
The wildlife team plans to expand habitat enhancement efforts in the future by planting approximately ten acres of wildflower meadows and installing barn owl nest boxes.
Okeechobee Landfill
Okeechobee, FL - Certified since 2003
The Waste Management, Inc. (WM) Okeechobee Landfill is situated within a rural community and has the potential to provide locals and visitors alike with a variety of conservation and recreation related activities. Employees at the site have long valued the presence of threatened Florida sandhill cranes on the property, encouraging nesting through the maintenance of grasslands as well as of several earthen mounds, or islands, within the wetland lakes. Employees regularly monitor these areas for sandhill crane activity, especially as the cranes raise their young.
Prior to starting new projects, an inventory was conducted on the wildlife and vegetation on-site. The wildlife team met to discuss the existing wildlife species on the property, what habitat requirements were already being met and which components were lacking or could be accentuated. The underlying desire of the team was to create habitat on site for other species, based on the positive outcome that employees experienced by providing nesting areas, food, and water for the sandhill cranes.
The site is exceptional, consisting of 4,150 acres, with 1,550 actively
undergoing wetland preservation and restoration, as well as the creation
of aquatic, marsh and forested wetland habitat. There are a multitude
of possibilities for habitat enhancement on-site, and the community
has been very receptive in recognizing the value in enhancing and
preserving natural areas. For these reasons, employees are enthusiastic
at the prospect of continuing to design and implement new projects.
Employees recount numerous sightings of wild turkey, deer, wood ducks, gopher tortoise and a variety of birds on the property, and use their base wildlife inventory to identify enhancement goals. One identified priority is to provide additional nesting opportunities for wood ducks in the Southwest Swamp. While this forested wetland has a lot of hardwood nesting trees in a contiguous area, many of the planted cypress and other trees in the area are still young. It was determined that nesting boxes specifically designed for wood ducks would be ideal. In addition, the value of nut and berry producing trees in the Southwest Swamp was emphasized, and new goals for planting, protecting and preserving these trees were established. The team also set another goal to provide educational opportunities for employees in order to promote the understanding of continued and future projects. Management provided field guides and other materials, hosted separate courses on wildlife and education for hunters and is very supportive of employee efforts to enhance habitat and increase education opportunities on-site.
Ottowa Landfill
Ontario, Canada - Certified since 2006
In operation since 1971, the Ottawa Landfill is located on the boreal shield of Ontario and consists of 142 hectares of land. The landscape of the landfill features a surface water pond, two sediment ponds, wooded areas, a grassy berm and a sand pit.
The Ottawa Landfill wildlife team aims to implement a wildlife management program that can concurrently protect habitat, involve other WM employees, improve company morale and develop stronger community relations. During the first year, the team will control the existing algae growth in the South and Southeast ponds, prepare the berm for landscaping and implement a gull management program. The team will consult with neighboring farmers and consultants regarding the use of Barley Straw in the ponds, native vegetation for the berm and gull removal devices. Longer term goals include habitat enhancement for grey horned owls, mallard ducks, purple martins and bats.
The Ottawa Landfill habitat program is still in early developmental stages. The site has been observed, the habitat has been assessed and the wildlife team is now beginning work on projects. Barley straw has been applied to pond areas to remove algae and poplar trees have been planted on site. In addition, owl nesting platforms and nesting tubes for mallard ducks were installed. The team is excited for future plans and will continue to promote habitat protection.
Petrolia Landfill
Petrolia, Ontario - Certified since 2004
The Petrolia Landfill is a 100-acre site located in southern Ontario,
Canada. Agricultural fields surround the site and Little Bear Creek
borders the site to the east. The site itself consists of native
grasslands, shrub communities, wetlands and riparian area of Little
Bear Creek and Bear Creek. After purchasing the Petrolia Landfill
in 1996, Waste Management of Canada Corporation determined that Little
Bear Creek, which originally ran across the active landfill site,
would need to be diverted to allow access to disposal areas without
negatively impacting the natural environment and wildlife. This project
offered the opportunity to further enhance wildlife habitat around
the site.
The site worked closely with the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority to develop an environmentally sound relocation plan for Little Bear Creek and the project was completed in 2002. The site worked to ensure that the creek continues to provide suitable habitat for a number of native fish, amphibian and avian species. The natural regeneration of native plants and the prevention of soil erosion help to provide nesting for waterfowl and other native wildlife species. Seedlings, shrubs and grasses were planted on the banks of the creek and along the north side slope of the completed landfill cells. To support aquatic life, a storm water management pond was constructed in the summer of 2005. The pond provides excellent habitat for migratory birds to perch and feed from.
The establishment of shrub and grass communities has also provided grazing and foraging areas for deer and other terrestrial wildlife. Several years ago, the Ontario government released a number of wild turkeys in the Petrolia Landfill area. Employees have noted wild turkeys in the creek during the fall, winter and spring seasons.
In the upcoming years, team members would like to work with local community organizations on educational projects, enhance entrance berms with native plants, and develop plans for establishing a poplar plantation on the covered landfills. The Petrolia Landfill is also planning to manage leachate from the landfill with an innovative phytoremediation project proposed to start in 2008.
Pine Grove Landfill
Pine Grove, PA - Certified since 2006
The Pine Grove Landfill, located in Pine Grove, Penn., was acquired by Waste Management in 1998. In addition to the landfill, Waste Management also purchased an adjacent property called Longenecker Farm, bringing the total acreage to 360, of which 350 are managed for wildlife. The property is comprised of a mix of deciduous and coniferous woodlands, grasslands and fallow farm fields, along with active landfill areas. Lone Valley Creek, a small tributary of Swatara Creek, bisects the site from the northern property boundary to the southeastern corner of the site. Laurel Creek, another small tributary of Swatara Creek, flows from Longenecker farm pond south along Laurel Drive.
After initiating a wildlife habitat program in early 2005, the Pine Grove Landfill quickly established several projects around the site. Based on observations of American kestrels at the property, the wildlife team constructed three nest boxes and placed them in appropriate locations around the site. The boxes have proved very successful, attracting kestrels in each of the first two breeding seasons. The team will continue to monitor and maintain the boxes in future years. Additional nest boxes were also placed around the property for eastern bluebirds and tree swallows. A pollinator garden was created in 2005, at the entrance to the site and planted with native wildflower species. In addition, food plots were planted for deer and turkey. The team also implements an invasive species control program at the site in an attempt to remove non-native autumn olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) and multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora), which if left uncontrolled, can crowd out native plants and reduce biodiversity.
The facility laid the groundwork for development of an environmental education center at the site that will include a nature center, trails, wildlife observation blinds and pavilions. The wildlife team collaborated with various organizations, including the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Game Commission, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Trout Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Pine Grove Township, Red Creek Wildlife Center and the Schuylkill County Conservation District, in developing a plan of action for this project.
Richmond Landfill
Ontario, Canada - Certified since 2006
The Richmond Landfill is set in a predominantly rural area of Ontario with several nearby ecologically significant areas including the Hemplfly Swamp, Beechwood Swamp, and the Salmon River Area of Natural and Scientific Interest. A myriad of ecosystems exist within the 558-acre property, including deciduous forest woodlots, ponds, marshes, cultural savannah and cultural meadow.
Between 1997 and 2001, a series of field investigations were carried out, creating species inventory lists. These prepared lists were used as a reference for the development of a wildlife habitat management plan. Avian conservation is a high priority at the Richmond Landfill. In 2006, nest boxes were placed in the North Swamp area for wood ducks. These boxes will be monitored for use and cleaned out each winter. Eight houses were also constructed for bluebirds and placed near suitable food and water sources.
The wildlife team also promotes healthy forests through pit and mound forest restoration on-site. Chosen areas were excavated to create the pits and mounds and native trees were planted to attract wildlife. The team also maintains and enhances snags throughout the site. In the coming years, the team will continue to develop a successful Learning Centre. A building has already been acquired and trails are being constructed. Plans are being made to incorporate recycled materials into the building of boardwalks and benches.
Riverbend Landfill
McMinnville, OR - Certified since 2005
The Riverbend Landfill encompasses 620 acres, with about 500 acres set aside for wildlife habitat. The site is primarily surrounded by agricultural land, including pastures, row crops, orchards and some associated rural residences. The South Yamhill River flows through the southern half of the site, and its highly meandering channel leads to the creation of floodplain forests along the southern riverbank. Oregon ash, black cottonwood and willows dominate the floodplain areas.
Poplar trees are used treat leachate generated by the landfill. The leachate is stored in a 20-million gallon pond and then applied as irrigation to a 45-acre poplar plantation. The poplars absorb the water and the contaminants contained within it, and then the trees are harvested. This method safely treats the leachate while at the same time generating high-quality clear dimensional lumber and pulp for the paper industry.
Employees maintain a nest box program to provide habitat for cavity-nesting birds. The site features nesting structures for bluebirds and wood ducks, as well as an osprey nesting platform. Future plans include installation of nest boxes for American kestrels.
To promote the growth of native vegetation, employees implemented projects to control invasive plant species. Employees cleared dense patches of Himalayan blackberries, performed mowing to clear a variety of weeds in grassland areas, and continue to monitor the site for infestations. In addition, a team of eight employees cleared patches in a dense orchard to allow sunlight to penetrate the forest floor and encourage growth of understory species. The clearings are meant to promote vegetative diversity, and employees monitor the areas to ensure that invasive species do not colonize them.
The Riverbend Landfill program features community education and outreach. Primary school students and members of the McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce recently toured the facility. Employees also give off-site presentations to governing bodies of nearby cities and other organizations.
Saint-Nicéphore Landfill
Quebec, Canada - Certified since 2006
The Saint-Nicéphore Landfill is located in the southeastern portion of Quebec, approximately 100 km southeast of Montreal. The 773-acre property is bordered on the east by the St. Francois River consists mainly of second-growth forest. Wildlife habitat enhancement, employee participation, and public outreach are the primary objectives of the sites Wildlife at WorkSM program.
The St-Nicéphore landfill is located in the sugar maple-bitternut hickory domain which shelters more than half of the flora and nearly seventy percent of the fauna of Quebec, in addition to about half of the threatened or vulnerable species of the province. Since the region is under development, the wildlife team chose to initiate a habitat enhancement program by replanting bare areas on site to provide additional habitat and increase biodiversity. Close to ten thousand trees were planted on site covering an area of 3.75 hectares. Exclusively native species including white spruce, jack pine and sugar maple were chosen for the planting as they all offer benefits for wildlife.
The health of the St. Francois River is one of the main environmental concerns in the region and forms the basis for the sites wildlife habitat management plan. The Paul-Boisvert Creek, which runs through the site, was thoroughly inventoried in 2004 and the results showed the potential for enhancement for wildlife. The creek is to be part of a voluntary restoration effort in partnership with the local high school science group starting in 2006.
Sainte-Sophie Landfill
Quebec, Canada - Certified since 2006
The Sainte-Sophie Landfill consists of 736 acres approximately 50 kilometers north of Montreal, Quebec. The property is set within a region characterized by agricultural activities. The immediate surroundings of the Sainte-Sophie Landfill have remained mainly as forested land, making the site a good location for wildlife habitat enhancement potential. The Sainte-Sophie wildlife team investigated forested areas, wetlands and open lands in regeneration as well as the main stream “Ruisseau aux Castors” for potential habitat enhancement projects.
The wildlife team initiated a wildlife habitat enhancement program that would help the same perform in a better, Greener Way. The projects include increasing habitat diversity by first conducting thorough inventories followed by planting native evergreens to enhance the habitat for noted species. Two hundred spruces were planted to create valuable nesting and cover habitat for a number of species of birds. Small mammals also eat the seeds of the tree that fall to the ground. The Sainte-Sophie Landfill has collaborated for a decade with the community to maintain horse trails and stables on site for use by the local horseback riding club.
Simi Valley Landfill
Simi Valley, CA - Certified since 2007
The Simi Valley Landfill and Recycling Center is located on 297 active wildlife acres in Ventura County, California. Habitat on site consists of varied grasslands, open valleys and canyons.
The wildlife team installed eight owl boxes and five raptor perches to the site with the assistance of local Boy Scouts and a local avian expert. In January 2007, the Ojai Raptor Center placed three rehabilitated barn owls into the Simi Valley nesting area. Routine monitoring surveys indicate the presence of owl activity. The wildlife team implemented the owl habitat as a means to eliminate the use of rodenticide on site, and continues to maintain and enhance the nesting area.
Future plans for the wildlife team include the introduction of native species and control of invasive plant species. Plans were also developed to create educational hiking trails and pollinator gardens.
Springhill Regional Landfill
Campbellton, Florida - Certified since 2006
The Springhill Regional Landfill is a solid waste disposal facility located on approximately 696 acres in Campbellton, Florida, on the Florida panhandles northern border with Georgia and Alabama. Of the total acreage, more than 30 acres are actively managed for wildlife habitat. In addition, site managers anticipate enhancing another 25 acres to serve as quality wildlife habitat. A majority of the undeveloped acreage available to wildlife is composed of high quality seasonal and permanent wetlands including ponds, swamps and forested wetlands. Other portions of the site available to wildlife include regularly maintained grasslands and areas that have been planted with trees and shrubs.
The wildlife program aims to continue to conserve, enhance and protect habitat resources on site and stimulate community involvement. Cavity nesting habitat for a number of bird species is promoted at the site. Three screech owl boxes were placed in a forested wetland area, along with two bluebird boxes and numerous purple martin gourds and wood duck nest boxes that all see activity. Storm water ponds are constructed to simulate natural shoreline shapes and cleared brush and debris are placed at varying levels in the ponds to provide habitat for fish and perching and nesting habitat for wetland birds. In addition, the ponds and wetlands provide attractive habitat for American alligators, sightings of which are monitored. Habitat is also enhanced for game species through the planting of food plots for wild turkey, quail and other species.
To provide added benefit for the community, the site features a nature trail that includes signage identifying vegetative species visible along the path, as well as a wetland boardwalk, which was constructed from recycled materials. A “green power” generation facility on site also has the potential to supply up to 4,000 homes with electricity. Through a process, methane gas produced by decaying waste material is collected and converted into electricity, turning a former landfill waste product into a healthy new opportunity.
The Corporate Lands for Learning program at Spring Hill blends tours of the landfill areas, lectures and activities to promote discussion about recycling and waste reduction, and a tour of the extensive wildlife habitat. Students are invited to learn about the "green power" generation facility at the site that supplies electricity to more than 4,000 homes. Through a process, methane gas produced by decaying waste material is collected and converted into electricity, turning a former landfill waste product into a healthy new opportunity. The variety of topics helps visitors gain insight into the many ways humans can affect the environment.
Central to the CLL offerings at the site, visitors can explore the wet forest areas on site along a nature trail. The trail includes signage identifying vegetative species visible along the path. A wetland boardwalk constructed from recycled materials also winds through the property.
Spruce Ridge Landfill
Glencoe, MN - Certified since 2002
The 543-acre Spruce Ridge Landfill contains 100 acres that serve
as buffer areas and wildlife habitat. The surrounding ecosystem was
once natural grassland and then became farmland. The wildlife team
converted sections of the property back into natural grassland habitat.
The team planted approximately 70 acres with native prairie grasses
and wildflowers to provide food and cover resources for wildlife.
Since the establishment of the wildlife habitat enhancements, the
abundance and diversity of grassland birds, migrating birds and pollinator
species increased markedly. Other projects include the creation of
a six-acre pond, which the team stocks with native fish. The pond
features a constructed rock reef that provides cover and breeding
habitat for fish.
TA new landfill gas energy project received approval this year. The project is expected to provide 2.4 megawatts of energy for the local community, enough to power more than 1,500 homes. A site recycling program allows employees to recycle concrete and wood as well as aluminum, plastic and glass.
Turnkey Recycling and Environmental Enterprises -TREE
Rochester, NH - Certified since 2007
The Turnkey Recycling and Environmental Enterprises -TREE -- facility encompasses about 1,213 acres, of which 895 acres are available for wildlife habitat. The main vegetative communities on site include mesic transitional hardwood conifer forest, red maple stream bottom floodplain forest/swamp complex, and shallow emergent graminoid marsh. Old field/agricultural and clear cut old forested areas are also located on the property. One unnamed, manmade pond is located in a relatively undeveloped portion of the site and is used by local residents for fishing.
The TREE site is part of the Isinglass River watershed, which drains approximately 75 square miles. Both the Isinglass and Cocheco rivers border the TREE site. Waste Management of New Hampshire participated in successful efforts to incorporate the river into the New Hampshire Rivers Management and Protection Program. One of the largest parcels of open space in the Isinglass corridor is on the TREE site, including approximately 100 acres of riverfront property. This area includes a forest-management area containing stands of pine, hemlock and mixed hardwoods, where WMNH practices sustainable siviculture, and also an interpretive trail system, a picnic area and a canoe launch. The area is one of the focus areas for WMNH's Riparian Corridors project.
The TREE site is part of the Isinglass River watershed, which drains approximately 75 square miles. Both the Isinglass and Cocheco rivers border the TREE site. Waste Management of New Hampshire participated in successful efforts to incorporate the river into the New Hampshire Rivers Management and Protection Program. One of the largest parcels of open space in the Isinglass corridor is on the TREE site, including approximately 100 acres of riverfront property. This area includes a forest-management area containing stands of pine, hemlock and mixed hardwoods, where WMNH practices sustainable siviculture, and also an interpretive trail system, a picnic area and a canoe launch. The area is one of the focus areas for WMNH's Riparian Corridors project.
The other lies along the Cocheco River and includes a wildlife-management area within a conservation easement granted to the Stafford River Conservancy. On the southwest, the facility is bordered by the Isinglass River Park, which is owned and maintained by WMNH. The park provides several miles of year-round multi-use trails for non-motorized sports and provides access to the Isinglass River for picnicking, fishing and canoeing. Adjacent to Isinglass Park is a 100-plus-acre forest management area owned by WMNH and managed by a licensed professional forester. The site is bordered on the north and east by the Cocheco River, farm fields and light residential housing.
Open areas resulting from the operations, historic use, and/or topography are also found on the TREE site. Free-ranging cows occupy the low areas between the main road and the recycling facility near the closed TLR-II landfill. Additional land, including tracts of floodplain forest, act as buffers around the operations area. Suitable sections are leased to farmers as hay and corn fields. The farmers, in accordance with WMNH's habitat management practices, leave some of their corn rows standing as food and shelter for winter wildlife.
In addition to wildlife habitat projects, WMNH devotes portions of the site to community uses and green initiatives. Community uses include a homeless shelter, a housing development and a number of recreational facilities including a dog park, a model airplane field, a golf driving range and a fishing pond. The TREE site's green initiatives include the production of approximately 10,000-standard-cubic-feet-per-minute of landfill gas. About 40 percent of this gas is sent to a turbine plant and/or an engine plant to produce electricity. About nine megawatts of electricity are currently produced (enough to heat 9,000 homes) and sold to the local utility company. Additionally, several site buildings, including the wastewater treatment plant, material recovery facility, container repair shop, and site flares are powered by this green power.
WMNH also partners with the University of New Hampshire to transport the remaining landfill gas to UNH for co-generation of electricity and heating energy, making UNH one of the largest "green" campuses in the country. This 12.8 mile pipeline and processing plant are currently under construction and scheduled to be completed in early 2009.
Each day, the Turnkey Materials Recycling Facility processes 120 tons of recyclable material including fiber, containers and electronic scrap waste. Yard wastes, including brush, leaves and grass are diverted from the landfill and processed yearly to produce compost used for onsite projects.
Twin Bridges
Danville, IN - Certified since 2007
The Twin Bridges facility spans 975 acres west of Indianapolis and includes both active and closed landfill sections, as well as acreage not involved in operations. To improve reclamation of landfills sections scheduled for closure, the wildlife habitat team adjusted the seed mix used on the "final cap" to include native warm-season grasses. The new seed mix will be evaluated for its benefit to wildlife as well as its ability to prevent erosion compared to standard mixes. In addition, native prairie grasses and wildflowers are being planted in several locations of the site that would otherwise be maintained as turf grass. The wildlife team also installed a half-acre pollinator garden that incorporated all native plants.
To expand community involvement, the wildlife team established a local Nature Club consisting of employees, neighbors and community groups. The club organizes activities such as an Earth Day creek cleanup, photography class, canoeing and nature and environmental presentations and field trips.
Warwick Landfill
Watford, Ontario - Certified since 2004
The Warwick Landfill is located one approximately 118 acres in Lambton
County, Ontario. The site consists of native grasslands, a 10-acre
poplar plantation that links existing forested areas and the King
property. The King property is an adjoining site purchased by Waste
Management consisting of a mix of upland tree species and diverse
understory plants including the regionally significant species St.
Johns wort and false mermaid weed. Bear Creek runs through the mid-section
of the King property.
Waste Management of Canada Corporation worked closely with the Warwick Public Liaison Committee and the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority to develop an environmentally sound leachate management program. The program consists of a 10-acre, 25,000 unit poplar tree plantation that is used for phytoremediation. Team members hope to expand the ecosystem created by the phytoremediation project into a wildlife corridor that runs from the north to south sections of the landfill. In the fall of 2004, a variety of deciduous trees were planted along the north perimeter of the site. Closed landfill cells north of the poplar plantation were covered with topsoil and seeded with native grasses to revegetate unused areas with a diverse array of species. Trees will also be planted in this area during the spring of 2007.
The Warwick wildlife team plans to continue revegetation efforts to create buffers that provide shelter for birds and small animals and to establish windbreaks for prevention of soil erosion. During these next few years, the team will also work towards the construction of four new stormwater control facilities with wetland enhancement. Plans are also being developed to expand the property an additional 200 acres to include a variety of tree lots, ponds, berms, shrub communities and poplar plantations.
Waterford Recreation Association Sports Complex
Morrisville, PA - Certified since 2003
The Oliver Landfill Site is a 52-acre former municipal solid waste/industrial landfill site located near Waterford Township, Erie County, Pennsylvania. Closure of the site under the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's (PADEP) Site Remediation Program involved the design of an alternative remedy that integrated ecological enhancement with beneficial reuse of the site as a baseball field recreational facility for the local community. The area is now named the Waterford Recreation Association Sports Complex.
Due to the community's interest in reviving the natural setting of the site, the beneficial reuse approach included phytoremediation and ecological enhancement techniques. Some of the methods include planting trees that readily adsorb water, installing a dense tree cap (EcapTM) on the waste cells and a living fence surrounding the waste cells and constructing a down-gradient wetland basin. The tree cap consists of dense stands of hybrid poplar trees, which were planted over the waste cells to promote stormwater uptake and reduce the ability of stormwater to permeate the ground under the cells. The initial plantings will be augmented by indigenous species of trees and shrubs, and species diversity will increase on the cap over a long-term period. In addition, an innovative approach in the form of a living fence, consisting of native trees and shrubs, provides wildlife habitat while being aesthetically pleasing.
The constructed wetland was designed as a wet meadow basin to collect stormwater runoff from the up-gradient area of the site. The mix of wetland vegetation types planted in this area has further diversified the habitat opportunities available to wildlife. Using the phytoremediation approach on-site helped to meet PADEP requirements, and it also simultaneously resulted in the creation of improved habitat and increased use of the area by a more diversified wildlife community.
