Madison County seeks public input on updated solid-waste management plan

WAMPSVILLE — The Madison County Department of Solid Waste has released a draft of the updated local solid-waste management plan (SWMP) that will focus on the next 10 years (from 2021 through 2030) of solid-waste disposal and recycling in Madison County. 

In the past, Madison County has prepared SWMPs to “evaluate and execute an environmentally sound and economically feasible” plan for handling solid waste generated within the county, per an Aug. 6 news release. 

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) requires local planning units to update and modify solid waste and recycling efforts prior to their expiration date. The current SWMP is set to expire at the end of 2020. 

Since the inception of the first plan in 1990, the county has “continued to meet the milestones” outlined in the plan and incorporate new components to expand recycling efforts and divert solid waste from going into the landfill. 

The new solid-waste management plan focuses on the continuation of the main landfill-disposal system, improvement of current recycling efforts for materials such as paper and containers through educational programming, and the handling of other items such as electronics and household hazardous waste through special programs. 

The county says it plans to expand on the past SWMP by concentrating on public education through targeted recycling campaigns, school presentations, and backyard composting workshops. 

The Madison County Solid Waste Department held a virtual public information meeting on Aug. 27 to briefly summarize the plan and accept public comments. 

Madison County residents and businesses are encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback. Public comments must be received by Sept. 20. 

After the public-comment period ends, the Solid Waste Department will finalize the draft plan and then submit it to the New York DEC for review.