OLD TOWN – Casella Waste Systems is getting to work on its application for its expansion of Juniper Ridge Landfill.
Casella operates the landfill for the state, which acquired it from Georgia-Pacific in 2003. Its capacity has since grown from three million cubic yards that year to 10 million in 2005; Casella in 2011 sought to have 21 million cubic yards more added to the capacity, but after a lengthy review and stiff public opposition, the Maine Department of Envirnomental Protection decided to allow less than half the requested amount – an additional 9.35 million cubic yards of capacity.
Without the expansion, it has been estimated that Juniper Ridge will be filled in about five to six year; the added 9.35 million cubic yards would mean an estimated eight to 10 more years uf use there, assuming current annual disposal there stays about the same.
Casella officials have indicated the expansion application will be filed earlier this summer. In the meantime, input is being gathered from interested parties, including residents and officials of area town, contractors, and the state.
The application is but another early step in a long process that will include public meetings and a period for public comment. The application also will be reviewed by the DEP, as well as city and federal officials, as part of the process necessary for final approval.