Materials Management
The Materials Management Facility (MMF) provides safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible disposal of non-hazardous solid waste for Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. Opened in 1992, the state-of-the-art, double-lined landfill operates in full compliance with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation regulations. The facility accepts waste from approved and permitted haulers and does not accept waste directly from individual residents.
The landfill was developed in response to the region's growing waste disposal needs, driven by the expansion of Fort Drum and the closure of many older municipal landfills that no longer met modern environmental standards. Working in partnership with its county stakeholders, the Development Authority created a regional solution that continues to provide reliable, environmentally sound waste management services.
Located in the Town of Rodman, the facility is permitted to construct and operate up to 154 acres of landfill capacity. The Development Authority owns more than 1,500 acres surrounding the site, creating a substantial buffer between operations and neighboring properties. Advanced engineering controls and multiple layers of environmental protection help ensure the safe containment of materials and the long-term protection of natural resources.
The Town of Rodman receives host community revenue-sharing payments from the Development Authority in recognition of its role as host community. The permitted capacity at the Materials Management Facility is projected to accept waste for the tri-county service area for the next 45 years. This ensures long-term disposal capacity that is controlled locally, environmentally sound and remaining a vital resource for regional development.
Beyond its waste management operations, the heavily wooded site supports abundant wildlife and offers year-round walking and hiking trails that are open to the public. Information on the public trails is located here www.danc.org/public-trails
Reuse and Recycling
The Development Authority recognizes that effective waste management extends beyond disposal. In partnership with Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties and the City of Watertown, the Development Authority supports regional recycling and waste reduction initiatives that help conserve landfill capacity and protect the environment.
Building upon its successes in solid waste disposal, the Development Authority has adopted a more comprehensive approach to the region’s solid waste management needs. The materials management strategy includes a collaborative approach to waste diversion, with the Development Authority taking a leadership role in the development of a consolidated, three-county Local Solid Waste Management Plan Local Materials Management Plan and waste diversion pilot projects to explore new opportunities for recycling and reusing various materials such as mattresses and tires.
Although the regional Materials Management Facility does not accept recyclable materials, under the terms of the tri-county Local Materials Management Plan the Development Authority is responsible for coordinating, promoting and overseeing waste diversion activities in the region. Waste diversion is the act of diverting waste from a landfill through the recycling or reuse of the waste. The Development Authority works with its partner counties to promote good waste diversion practices. Every year the Authority and its partners sponsor several Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events to help residents responsibly dispose of hazardous materials.
The website, www.NorthCountryRecycles.org , serves as a valuable resource for residents, businesses, institutions, and educators, offering information and tools to help reduce, reuse, and recycle materials that may otherwise be disposed of at the landfill. By diverting materials from disposal, communities can reduce waste and help preserve landfill capacity for future generations. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation prohibits disposal of recyclable materials at the landfill.
Educational Opportunity
The Materials Management Facility offers educational tours for student groups and other organizations interested in learning more about modern waste management practices. Through guided presentations and site tours, visitors gain a better understanding of landfill operations, recycling, environmental stewardship, and the important role waste diversion plays in protecting natural resources.
Tours are available on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. from April through October. Materials Management staff serve as guides and provide insight into the facility's operations and environmental safeguards.
For more information, see the Education and Engagement Opportunities guide or contact recycle@danc.org.