Waste Sites Environmental Features

We're committed to the environment and strive to not only meet, but exceed Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) standards for waste facilities.  

Our relationship with the MECP is unique in the province: we conduct site tours with MECP staff and hold annual update meetings to ensure the MECP is informed. We also maintain a close partnership to ensure the environmental health of all waste facilities is protected.

Through our Green Strategy, we continue to restore, enhance, and protect the many natural features found at waste facilities. The following photos are just a few examples.

These pictures demonstrate the successes we are proud to share.
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Esker (Kettle) pond is visited by wildlife
Esker (Kettle) pond is visited by wildlife
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Canada geese swim in a pond
Canadian geese
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Grey Horned owl perched in a tree
Grey Horned Owl
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Painted turtle close up of shell
Painted turtle
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Pond at Harriston Waste Facility
Pond at Harriston Waste Facility
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Snapping turtle laying eggs at Harriston Waste Facility
Snapping turtle laying eggs at Harriston Waste Facility
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Red Trillium
Red Trillium at Riverstown landfill
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Field of trilliums at Riverstown landfill
Field of trilliums at Riverstown landfill
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Wild Turkey in the woods
Wild Turkey

Site Remediation

We assumed responsibility for solid waste management from our member municipalities in 2001, when we established a strategy for the long-term management of all inherited landfill sites. In cooperation with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), we took action to undergo remediation over a 10 to 15 year period.

Examples of site remediation required:

  • In many cases, old waste areas had to be excavated and moved to create MECP required buffer zones
  • All sites required a final environmental seal or cap (1 metre of clay/fill covered in topsoil) established, proper drainage controls installed, and vegetative cover established
  • Fencing and monitor wells required
  • Adjacent property purchases to ensure:
    • Groundwater impacts from the sites were properly managed 
    • Buffer zones for drainage features
    • Capping operations and vegetation areas could be maintained

Monitoring

Our waste facilities are monitored to maintain environmental health and safe conditions. Any potential risks to those conditions are detected and responded to as soon as practical. Staff monitor according to established industry standards and in consultation with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP), who review the results on an annual basis.