Odor, Litter & Mud Controls

The Austin Community Landfill seeks to minimize potential odors that may generate from the landfill in several ways. One of the purposes of the landfill gas collection and control system that WM uses is to reduce potential odors created by gases generated from the decomposition of waste.

The gas collection and control system at the landfill consists of gas extraction wells that have been installed in deposited waste areas to remove landfill gas that is generated by decomposing waste. In addition to vertical wells installed to collect gas, horizontal gas collectors have been installed across the active disposal area to control odors. Horizontal and vertical collectors are typically installed well in advance of regulatory requirements to help minimize potential odors.

The leachate collection system has also been connected to the gas extraction system to remove and destroy gas that might collect in the leachate system.

To minimize potential odors from newly deposited wastes, the landfill covers fresh waste on a daily basis with 6-inches of clay soil. WM uses several different litter fences around the active areas of the Austin Community Landfill to catch windblown litter. These fences include 30-foot high permanent perimeter fences, as well as portable and temporary fences around the working face. Windblown litter from these fences is collected daily.

The company also picks up litter daily along Highway 290 (from Springdale Road to Decker Lane) and along Giles, Blue Goose and Springdale Roads. To further reduce litter, WM adds a surcharge fee for any vehicle that comes in the landfill with loads not covered by a tarp.

WM main roads are paved interior landfill roads and employs an automated wheel-wash system to help remove mud from truck tires before trucks exit the landfill. Also, the company regularly sweeps Giles Road during rains.