Waste disposal might not be glamorous, but it’s essential for a healthy community. Cherry Island Landfill plays a vital role in Wilmington, Delaware’s waste management system, providing a reliable place for residents and businesses to responsibly dispose of their unwanted materials.
This comprehensive guide takes the guesswork out of using the landfill, offering everything you need to know about services, hours, accepted materials, recycling programs, fees, and tips for making your visit as smooth as possible.
What Services Does Cherry Island Landfill Offer?
Residential Waste Disposal
For Wilmington homeowners, Cherry Island Landfill accepts a wide range of household waste. This includes everyday trash, bulky items like furniture, and yard debris. However, it’s important to know what’s accepted and what’s not to avoid any issues during disposal.
Accepted Household Waste:
- General trash (non-hazardous)
- Furniture (couches, chairs, tables)
- Yard waste (leaves, branches, grass clippings)
Important Guidelines:
- Ensure items are free of hazardous materials.
- Separate recyclables from general waste to facilitate recycling.
Recycling Programs
Cherry Island is committed to reducing waste through robust recycling programs. They accept a variety of materials, which helps divert waste from landfills and promotes sustainability.
Accepted Recyclables:
- Plastics: #1 (PETE) and #2 (HDPE) plastics are commonly found in bottles and containers.
- Paper: Newspapers, magazines, office paper, and cardboard (flattened).
- Metals: Aluminum cans (like soda cans) and steel cans (like food cans).
Preparing your recyclables correctly is key to the success of these programs. Rinse containers to remove food residue and flatten boxes to save space.
Special Waste Disposal
Dealing with hazardous waste, electronics, or yard waste? Cherry Island has specific procedures in place to ensure these materials are handled safely.
- Hazardous Waste: Items such as batteries, paints, and chemicals must be disposed of at designated facilities. For more information, visit the DSWA hazardous waste page.
- Electronics: The landfill often hosts e-waste collection events, allowing residents to safely dispose of old electronics. Check the DSWA website for schedules and details on what items are accepted.
- Yard Waste: Yard waste is accepted but should be separated from regular trash. Residents can bring leaves, branches, and grass clippings to the landfill.
Commercial Waste Disposal
Wilmington businesses can also utilize Cherry Island Landfill. Services include bulk waste disposal, roll-off containers, and contract services tailored to business needs.
Commercial Services:
- Bulk Waste Disposal: For businesses generating large quantities of waste.
- Roll-Off Containers: Available for construction sites or large projects.
- Contract Services: Customized waste management solutions for businesses.
Contact the DSWA directly for more information on commercial disposal options.
Planning Your Trip:
Location and Directions
The landfill is conveniently located at:
Address: 1000 E. 7th Street, Wilmington, DE 19801
Find it on Google Maps:
The landfill is easily accessible from major nearby roads like I-95 and Route 13, making it straightforward to reach.
Hours of Operation
The landfill is open Monday to Saturday from 7 AM to 4 PM. It is closed on Sundays and certain holidays. Check the DSWA holiday schedule for specific dates.
Pro Tip: Weekday mornings are generally less busy, making your visit quicker and more efficient.
Fees and Payment Options
Fees for waste disposal vary depending on the type and weight of materials. For detailed pricing, visit the DSWA fee schedule. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit/debit cards, and checks.
Typical Fees:
- General waste disposal: $80.00/ton per ton.
- Special fees may apply for hazardous waste or large bulk items.
What to Expect
First-time visitors can expect a straightforward process. Upon arrival, you will typically:
- Weigh-In: Your vehicle will be weighed to determine disposal fees.
- Follow Signage: Clear signs will guide you to the appropriate disposal areas.
- Receive Assistance: Staff members are available to help if you have questions or need guidance.
Following the posted signage will make your visit smooth and efficient.
What Can and Can’t You Bring to Cherry Island?
Accepted Materials
Here’s a detailed breakdown of commonly accepted items:
Household Waste:
- General trash (non-hazardous)
- Furniture (couches, chairs, tables)
- Yard waste (leaves, branches, grass clippings)
Recyclables:
- Plastics: #1 and #2
- Paper: Newspapers, magazines, office paper, and cardboard (flattened)
- Metals: Aluminum and steel cans
Prohibited Materials
For the safety of staff and the environment, these items are not accepted:
- Hazardous Waste: Chemicals, batteries, paints, and solvents.
- Electronics: TVs, computers, and other electronic devices.
- Construction Debris: Concrete, bricks, and other construction materials.
Recycling Guidelines
To ensure your recyclables are processed correctly, please follow these instructions:
- Rinse Containers: Remove food residue from all containers.
- Flatten Boxes: This saves space and makes processing easier.
- Remove Labels: When possible, remove labels from plastic containers.
- Separate Materials: Keep recyclables separate from regular trash.
Cherry Island Landfill and the Environment
Environmental Initiatives
Cherry Island Landfill is committed to environmental stewardship through several key initiatives:
- Methane Capture: The landfill captures methane gas produced during decomposition to generate energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Leachate Management: Advanced systems are in place to treat leachate, preventing groundwater contamination.
- Stormwater Control: Implementing measures to manage stormwater runoff helps protect local waterways.
Learn more about these efforts on the DSWA sustainability page.
Sustainability Efforts
The DSWA, which operates Cherry Island, prioritizes sustainability by:
- Promoting Waste Reduction: Encouraging residents to minimize waste through education and outreach.
- Community Education Programs: Offering workshops and resources to help residents understand recycling and waste management.
- Investing in Environmentally Friendly Technologies: Continuously improving landfill operations to reduce environmental impact.
Community Outreach
The DSWA actively engages with the community through educational programs, public events, and online resources. Check their website for upcoming events and educational materials.
Cherry Island Landfill Delaware Google Review Summary
Average Rating: 4.3 ★★★★☆ based on 108 reviews
i) Dan Monks (5/5) (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️) (30 NOV 2024)
Positive experience,
“Upon arrival, I spoke with the attendant who inquired about the type of trash I was disposing of. In my case, it was an office chair and a large sheet metal box. She directed me to Area 1, weighed my vehicle, and provided a card to present upon exit. I followed the signs and completed the disposal process. When exiting, I tapped the card on a sensor, and my vehicle was weighed again to compare entry and exit weights. I paid $7.50 to dispose of 20 pounds. Even as a first-timer, the process was easy to follow. If I have a bulky item to dispose of again, I will return it.”
ii) Earl McNair (4/5) (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆) (19 Set 2024)
“This is a great facility with friendly and knowledgeable staff. I have visited many times and have always had professional interactions with the staff. I recommend using a four-wheel-drive vehicle if you are going to Area 3, as the ground can be soft and you might get stuck if it’s raining. Their prices are very fair, and the process is quick—it’s an in-and-out experience.”
For more reviews and ratings, visit Google Reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fees for disposing of tires at Cherry Island Landfill?
Fees for tire disposal vary; check the DSWA website for specific pricing.
Does Cherry Island Landfill accept construction debris?
No, construction debris is not accepted at this landfill.
How do I dispose of paint cans at Cherry Island Landfill?
Paint cans must be taken to a hazardous waste facility; they are not accepted at the landfill.
Is there a limit to the amount of yard waste I can bring to Cherry Island Landfill?
There is no specific limit, but please ensure it is separated from regular trash.
What types of plastics are accepted for recycling at Cherry Island Landfill?
Only #1 (PETE) and #2 (HDPE) plastics are accepted for recycling.
Are there any special requirements for disposing of appliances at Cherry Island Landfill?
Appliances must be free of hazardous materials; check with the landfill for specific guidelines.
Can I dispose of household chemicals at Cherry Island Landfill?
No, household chemicals must be taken to a hazardous waste facility.
Where can I find information about e-waste collection events in Wilmington?
Visit the DSWA website for schedules and details on e-waste collection events.
Conclusion
Cherry Island Landfill provides essential waste management services for Wilmington and the surrounding areas. By understanding the landfill’s guidelines and participating in responsible waste disposal practices, we can all contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment. For the most up-to-date information on services, fees, and programs visit the DSWA website.
Have questions about waste disposal in Wilmington? Contact the DSWA at [+1 800-404-7080] or visit their website.
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