The Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill is the recipient of a 2009 Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) Excellence Award.

The City of Sioux Falls was awarded SWANA’s Silver Excellence in Solid Waste Management Award in Landfill Gas Utilization. The award will be publicly presented at WASTECON, SWANA’s annual solid waste exposition, on Thursday, September 24, 2009, in Long Beach, California.

The Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill was recently presented SWANA’s Excellence Award for the success of its landfill gas system. The landfill expanded its existing landfill gas system by the initial operation of its landfill gas pipeline to POET Biorefining–Chancellor in February of 2009.

Greenhouse gas emissions are being reduced through the use of landfill gas—a renewable energy source. The sale of landfill gas and carbon credits associated with the destruction of methane has resulted in increased revenue for the landfill.

A recent rate study conducted showed that the landfill is not proposing to raise its disposal fees for 2010 and much of this can be attributed to increased revenue from the landfill gas project. The City also recently opened bids to expand its existing landfill gas system, which will allow for increased flow of landfill gas. This expansion project should commence in August.

“SWANA is pleased to honor the City of Sioux Falls for the outstanding accomplishments they have achieved. Their commitment to advancing solid waste management is outstanding and we are very proud of their efforts,” said John H. Skinner, Ph.D., SWANA’s Executive Director and CEO.

SWANA’s Excellence Awards Program recognizes outstanding solid waste programs and facilities that promote socially, environmentally, and economically sound management of solid waste. Award winners demonstrate their commitment to environmental regulation compliance, program efficiency, safety, and progress.

The mission of the Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill is to provide environmentally and fiscally sound solid waste management and disposal services to its customers. The Sioux Falls Regional Sanitary Landfill is committed to maintaining and operating a solid waste management facility in accordance with established local, state, and federal laws, rules, and regulations. The landfill provides disposal service to a five-county region, including Sioux Falls.

General information regarding the landfill, including hours of operation, rates, and materials accepted, are located on the City’s website at www.siouxfalls.org, or you may call the Landfill Office at 605-367-8162.