December 2006
RE: Yard Waste and Recycling Issues
Letter to the Editor:
Knowing that the yard waste ban is upon us, and in response to some questions
raised by residents in my district, I would like to pass along some facts and
options for recycling your yard waste at little or no extra cost.
FACTS ABOUT DELAWARE SOLID WASTE AUTHORITY
Is the Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA) a state agency and do they
receive state funding?
In 1975 the Delaware Solid Waste Authority (DSWA) was established under Title
7, Chapter 64 of the Delaware code. It was set up to address, on a statewide
basis, the management of all solid waste generated in Delaware. DSWA was established
as a self-funded entity, with no funding provided by the State of Delaware.
Does the Delaware Solid Waste Authority accept waste from other states?
No, solid waste generated outside the state is prohibited from being delivered
to a facility operated by, or on behalf of, or under contract with the Authority.
Recyclable materials generated outside the state may be delivered for recycling
to a recycling center or facility operated by, on behalf of, or under contract
with the Authority. (Delaware Code Title 7, Chapter 65).
To view the Delaware code, search “Online Delaware Code”.
Why won’t the trash haulers be able to pick up yard waste mixed
in with my trash after January 1, 2007?
A permit, issued by the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) to the Delaware Solid Waste Authority, (DSWA) bans yard waste from being placed in the Cherry Island Landfill after January 1, 2007. Full enforcement ($500 fine to haulers) will be delayed for several months as DNREC, DSWA and haulers focus on educating the public.
Can my hauler still pick up my yard waste and if so, where will it be taken?
Most haulers have indicated that they will have collection options. At a cost to the consumer, the hauler may offer twice a week pick ups, during the growing season, with the second day set aside for yard waste collection. You will need to call your hauler for details.
Cherry Island has a separate area for the disposal of yard waste and Strobert
Tree Services, Inc. offers a disposal service for haulers.
What other options do I have regarding recycling my yard waste?
* Work with your civic or maintenance association to contract with a private company for curbside pickup of leaves/grass.
* Your association may consider contracting with one hauler for the whole community, thereby negotiating a better rate for trash and yard waste pickup.
* Use a mulching mower - this eliminates the need to bag grass clippings.* Purchase chippers and shredders so you can use your own yard waste as mulch in your garden.
* Establish a neighborhood yard waste compost or mulch site (must be in compliance with county code and maintenance corporation deed restrictions) DNREC has a Recycling Assistance matching grant program from which they award $50,000 annually. Eligible activities for a grant are those that will reduce the amount of municipal solid waste going to Delaware’s landfills. Details are available on the internet by searching “DNREC recycling assistance grant program.”
How do I enroll in the Delaware Solid Waste recycling program?
Call the CITIZENS' RESPONSE LINE at 1-800-404-7080 or sign up on line at DSWA.com
This program offers weekly pick-up of your separated recyclables at your curb.
For $6 per month, DSWA will pick up the specified materials for recycling. For
an additional $3 per month, DSWA will pick up yard waste (up to 4 bags) as well.
Where can I drop off my Christmas tree for recycling?
The following parks will be designated drop off points for Christmas trees: Bellevue State Park, Brandywine Creek State Park, Lums Pond State Park, White Clay Creek State Park (Possum Hill area of the park), Killens Pond State Park, Cape Henlopen State Park and Trap Pond State Park. All decorations must be off of the tree.
Feeling that the yard waste ban is the first step towards a successful recycling program, I support the ban. I anticipate that in January bills will be proposed to reverse the ban and to implement mandatory recycling. Please make your opinion known to your Representative and Senator. Your involvement is key to the direction we take.
Pam Maier
State Representative
21st District
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