West NY News

ELLERY, NY – Following a recent fire at Chautauqua County’s landfill, residents are reminded of their responsibility to the environment. Proper waste disposal is crucial for minimizing environmental harm and maintaining community health.

Chautauqua County operates its own landfill, allowing for effective waste management and lower disposal costs compared to other regions. This local control also ensures the long-term sustainability of waste services.

The Chautauqua County Landfill is a Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) facility, accepting most non-hazardous waste from residential, commercial, and institutional sources. Acceptable materials include non-recyclable household refuse, construction and demolition materials, contaminated soils within certain limits, furniture, carpets cut into three-foot rolls, and non-rechargeable household batteries.

MSW landfills are regulated by federal and state authorities with strict prohibitions on certain hazardous wastes due to potential dangers. Hazardous waste is defined by properties such as ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, and toxicity.

Materials not accepted at MSW landfills include liquid wastes like fuels and oils; rechargeable batteries; household hazardous wastes such as corrosives and flammables; medical waste including needles and controlled medicines; explosive or flammable items like fireworks; gas cylinders; appliances containing Freon; tires; radioactive waste; and electronic waste like TVs and computers.

By adhering to these guidelines, residents can help maintain low-cost waste disposal services in Chautauqua County for years to come.