Landfill better, but still fails inspection

Moorcroft's landfill failed another assessment from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) recently, though not to the extent of the previous inspection, according to mayor pro-tem Ben Glenn.

"It wasn't near as bad because we have been putting our nets up and getting everything in place, trying to be a good neighbor out there," he said.

The issues of regular and proper daily coverage as well as the size of the open work area were cited, but Glenn noted the bitter cold affected outside work to a degree in recent weeks. He stated, though, "We are taking steps forward, but we have to make sure we're keeping it up."

The agency will be permitting a final above ground expansion soon and, according to Glenn, "In this next permit, they're going to be a little harsher on us just because DEQ's starting to crack down on everybody."

The mayor pro-tem explained that the agency is expecting Moorcroft to continue to move forward and make a decision about the future of the landfill soon:

"We're working on the permit for the new cell. We don't have a time line at all; it depends on the funding from the state. We are working with HDR [Engineering] trying to secure that. We're in the process of applying for the permit, that's what they want to see is a clear path forward."

While the blowing debris is a continuing issue between the municipality and neighboring ranches, Glenn hopes to be able to see that rectified without closing the facility, "That's why the new pit is so important, so we can get back below the ground. Then the garbage blowing problem goes away and that includes all the trash blowing barriers and everything so that's why it comes with the price tag we're having a tough time swallowing."

With all of this said, Glenn figures the town will be alright regardless of the choice necessity will demand.