By Pat Bradley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-984667.mp3
Montpelier, VT – There are appliances, carpets, cabinets, linens, clothes, food, computers, tv's, household items, remnants of houses, and all sorts of trash and debris piling up in flood damaged areas. During a drive in the Adirondacks, one family could be seen burning their mud-damaged and waterlogged possessions. Getting rid of the growing piles of debris will be a challenge and right now the biggest problem is getting to it, according to Casella Waste Systems Vice President Joe Fusco.
Chittenden Solid Waste District General Manager Tom Moreau expects to see flood trash in stages as people clean out their homes, beginning with basement items and moving upwards through their homes. And while there is a massive amount of trash in the wake of the storm, Moreau says there is enough space in the region's landfills.
Good Point Recycling President Robin Ingenthron says many of the items remain recyclable even if they are water and mud soaked.
Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Solid Waste Program Manager Cathy Jamieson says they are working to set up regional collection centers.
The Agency of Natural Resources is providing local solid waste districts with information on trash removal.