County commission explores solid waste compost project
Marion County Commission heard a presentation Monday regarding disposing of solid waste through composting.
James Fells of Herington provided information he gathered during several years of research.
Basically, the operation requires a metal building to house equipment, however some operations can be performed outside, equipment (conveyor belt, storage bins, baler, and forklift), and personnel to sort and store refuse.
Some operations shred all wastes together — organic materials, plastic, glass, food, and paper. Other facilities sort and recycle materials, when there is a market for resale.
When the solid waste is shredded, it is spread in outdoor wind rows to decompose. If spread in an indoor, controlled environment, the compost is cured in four to six weeks; if outside, it takes four to six months.
After decomposition takes place, the waste is baled and hauled to a field or other locations for spreading, or hauled to a buyer if there is a market for the product.
Some operations separate plastic, glass, and tin from the compost materials, for recycling.
Initial costs could run $125,000 for equipment, and could employ 15 to 20 people.
This form of solid waste removal would reduce the amount of waste transported to area landfills, thus reducing costs for hauling, tipping fees, and fuel.
The commission took the information under advisement.
