Landfill History 1969-Present
Before 1969, waste management in Ontario County was a fragmented and unregulated practice. The County was home to at least 23 unlined landfills, which operated during a time when oversite and regulations were less stringent than those in place today. This posed significant environmental and public health risks for residents.
In 1969, the Ontario County Board of Supervisors recognized the need for a more responsible approach. They determined that the County should provide oversight of waste management operations to ensure the protection of its residents and the environment. This marked the beginning of Ontario County's involvement in solid waste management, setting the stage for a more structured and regulated system.
Development of the Ontario County Landfill
By 1974, Ontario County had taken all necessary steps to build and open a new landfill, which is still in operation today. This county-owned 158-acre landfill is located on State Routes 5 & 20 in the Town of Seneca. Over the decades, the landfill has been managed by various public and private entities, ensuring that operations are conducted efficiently and in compliance with evolving regulations.
As the landfill has expanded and its operations have evolved, the facility has consistently operated under permits issued by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). These permits ensure that the landfill adheres to strict environmental standards, safeguarding the health and well-being of the community.
While the landfill has accepted waste from all municipalities within Ontario County since operations began. In 1994, the facility also began accepting waste materials generated outside of the county.
Modern Operations and Strategic Partnerships
In 2003, Ontario County took a significant step forward by entering into a 25-year lease agreement with Casella Waste Services of Ontario, LLC (Casella). Under this agreement, Casella operates the landfill on behalf of the County, ensuring that waste management is conducted efficiently and in compliance with all relevant regulations.
In addition to the landfill, a single-stream Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) is also located on the landfill property. This facility, also operated by Casella, plays a crucial role in the County's waste management strategy. The MRF processes recyclables, reducing the volume of waste that ends up in the landfill and contributing to the county's sustainability efforts.
Learn more about Ontario County landfill operations, past and present, along with considerations for the County’s future management of residential and business refuse in the LANDFILL ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS report.