South Wake Landfill Tackles Odor Issues with New Improvements
Odor management remains a key priority. Overlapping projects and unusually heavy rainfall in September and October contributed to a rise in odor complaints.
Holly Springs, NC, Nov. 21, 2024 — The South Wake Landfill, operated by GFL Environmental and managed by Wake County Solid Waste, is making significant upgrades to reduce odors and improve operations. At the November 19, 2024, Town Council meeting, landfill representatives shared updates on their ongoing projects and efforts to address community concerns.
The landfill is working on its Phase 2C expansion, a new waste cell expected to be operational by early 2025. This project includes advanced systems like leachate collection, and protective rain covers to manage waste and runoff better. Additionally, the reverse osmosis plant continues to process industrial wastewater. Adjustments are being made to reduce odors related to the plant’s exhaust.
Another recent upgrade is the landfill gas expansion project, completed in October. This system will improve the capture and treatment of landfill gases. However, overlapping projects and unusually heavy rainfall in September and October contributed to a temporary rise in odor complaints.
Odor management remains a key priority. In recent months, reports of unpleasant smells exceeded established thresholds, prompting landfill staff to step up their response. To minimize the spread of odors, a new mobile vapor-based odor control system will soon be deployed closer to active waste areas.
Landfill operators are also working on relocating odor monitoring devices, known as "e-noses," to areas closer to the landfill. This change will improve monitoring and help identify potential odor sources more accurately.
The landfill is adjusting its project schedules to minimize community impact. Major construction will occur between January and July when prevailing winds are less likely to carry odors into nearby neighborhoods.
The landfill team continues to engage with residents through public tours and regular updates. Over 2,000 people have toured the landfill in the past two years, learning more about its operations and odor management strategies. Management is encouraging feedback from the community to improve its operations and communication efforts further.
Contact Information for Complaints
Residents with odor concerns or other feedback can report them directly to Wake County Solid Waste Management at 919-856-7400 or via email at solidwaste@wakegov.com. Your input helps the team address issues more effectively.
The South Wake Landfill remains vital to Holly Springs and Wake County’s waste management system. With these upgrades and a focus on addressing odors, the landfill aims to operate more efficiently while minimizing its impact on the surrounding community.