The "area method" of landfilling is used at the Tontitown Landfill. Refuse is unloaded directly at the toe or at the top of the inclined working face and into daily disposal areas. Each disposal area contains the refuse delivered to the site on that day. The incoming refuse is unloaded within the active landfilling area, and spread in lifts of two (2) feet thick, using bulldozers and trash compaction equipment.

Waste placement in disposal areas is in accordance with a predetermined fill sequence plan. The plan is designed to minimize the generation of leachate by reducing, to the extent practical, the active surface area of the landfill that is exposed to precipitation. The area of the landfill with intermittent or final cover is graded to direct storm water into the storm water collection system, again reducing the generation of leachate. The final fill construction sequence is comprised of waste placement on top of the active landfill area to reach the final permitted elevation. Once areas have reached their maximum grades, the final cover is completed.

Scalehouse

Located on the entrance road is a computerized weigh station. Trucks are weighed in and out of the site utilizing two 70-foot, 60-ton capacity steel deck scales. The scalehouse computer system maintains a database of each transaction including the name of the customer, volume, weight, waste type, waste origin, and time of disposal. Data to complete state-required reports is compiled and submitted to the ADEQ.

In general, unauthorized vehicles are restricted from entering the site. Disposal is only allowed during normal landfill operating hours. A security fence encloses the landfill. Security gates are also provided at the landfill entrance.

Traffic entering and exiting the weigh station is videotaped on a closed circuit television and monitored at the scalehouse facility. Speed limit signs, no smoking signs and signs directing traffic to the working face are posted along the access road.

Litter fences are around the active disposal area to control litter from blowing from the site. Routine inspection of the fencing and site perimeter by operations personnel at the site is performed to maintain the fencing and to remove loose trash as required.

Special Wastes

The Tontitown Landfill uses a rigorous waste screening program to identify unauthorized waste. Employees are trained in proper observation, identification and handling of special waste. Special waste customers must have their wastes profiled and pre-approved by qualified technical staff within Waste Management prior to acceptance at the landfill, in accordance with an ADEQ-approved waste acceptance plan.