GREENWASTE RECYCLING AT MOLOKAI LANDFILL TO BE REDUCED

The county will reduce the amount of days it accepts greenwaste on Molokai.  Beginning August 21, the Molokai Landfill will reduce its greenwaste schedule from seven to four days per week.  The change in schedule was necessary to ensure the landfill complies with State Department of Health permit requirements and reduce the potential for fire hazards.

The changes go into effect on August 21, 2009.  The new schedule for greenwaste acceptance at the Molokai Landfill will be: Thursdays from 8 a.m.-noon; Fridays from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturdays from 8 a.m.-noon; and Sundays from 8 a.m.-noon.

Loads considered to be contaminated due to the inclusion of non-greenwaste materials, along with equipment that malfunctioned, contributed to an accumulation of greenwaste material that the department is working to clear from the landfill.

Residents will be required to separate their loads of recycling, rubbish, greenwaste and metals. Landfill staff and personnel from Maui Disposal, contracted to operate the greenwaste recycling machinery, will be examining greenwaste loads for contamination and may refuse loads that are ineligible.

“We appreciate the public’s assistance and understanding as the new hours and procedures are implemented,” said Cheryl Okuma, Department of Environmental Management Director. “Maintaining an acceptable level of recyclable material that is free of contaminants is necessary to avoid costly Department of Health fines. We want to be able to produce mulch that is pure and uncontaminated and the cooperation of those recycling greenwaste is an important part of this service.”

For more information, call Maui Disposal on Molokai at ph. 553-3869.

(Posted by Wendy Osher, Information provided by the County of Maui)