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Landfill staff recommend trial of pricier bagged spray‑on cover after mold and equipment issues with other products
Summary
Montezuma County landfill staff reviewed three approved alternative daily cover (ADC) options, reported mold and contamination problems with two spray‑on products and recommended trialing a smaller, bagged (but more expensive) cover product that would reduce storage and labor needs.
Landfill staff reviewed three county‑approved alternative daily cover (ADC) options — two spray‑on products and a premixed bagged product — and said operational experience favors trying the small‑bag product despite its higher cost.
The presenter said the cheapest spray‑on option produced black mold while in storage after shipment and caused health‑protection concerns for crew members: “When it came up here and got stored, it started growing black mold. That's become an issue for our crew to mitigate. We're wearing respirators and dust mask.” The second spray‑on product had contamination (small pieces of plastic and metal) that temporarily clogged the spray pump and nozzle; the vendor supplied replacement material at no charge. Both spray products ship in large bulk bags that require more storage space.
The third product is prepackaged in smaller, cement‑type bags that are easier to store and handle and are premixed with a tackifier and dye. The presenter said the county received a demonstration pallet and that staff were impressed with how it sprays and binds the load. He recommended trying the bagged product for a year even though it is more expensive, saying the labor and storage savings could offset the price difference.
Commissioners asked about costs and budget impact; staff said the landfill has the budgeted funds for the purchase this year. No formal procurement decision was recorded at the workshop; one commissioner said the board would make an official decision at tomorrow’s meeting.
Why it matters: ADC choice affects landfill labor, storage needs, crew safety and operating costs. Staff flagged health concerns with one spray‑on product and mechanical contamination with another and recommended a trial of the bagged product to test operational benefits.
The landfill presenter asked for authorization to proceed with a trial; commissioners indicated support but deferred a final decision to the next meeting.
