To protect the health of residents and waterways, the Caroline County Commission unanimously passed new legislation this week that will strengthen local oversight of storage of food processing residuals, also known as industrial sludge or dissolved air flotation (DAF) material.
For over a year, county residents have sought relief from the irresponsible use of food processing residuals being stored and spread in their communities, citing threats to the local environment, rivers and streams, public health, and way of life. In response, County Commissioners passed a moratorium in December on the use of land or structures for the material’s storage. Then in July, Commissioners proposed permanent legislation that would require parties storing food processing residuals in Caroline County to hold a permit and meet certain conditions intended to protect the public and environment from harm.
This action complements recently-enacted state legislation requiring a permit for the handling, transportation, storage, and land application of sludge material on farmland. Caroline County Commissioners provided extensive testimony that was key to the state permit program legislation’s passage.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation Maryland Advocacy Director, Alan Girard, issued the following statement:
“Caroline County has been a statewide leader in responding to the need to better regulate food processing residuals in Maryland. They heard the concerns of their constituents and acted on them.
“Misuse and misapplication of food processing residuals are a major threat to Maryland’s environment and health. Caroline’s county-level action, combined with state legislation, will provide residents with strong protections against misuse of this material, and will ultimately help prevent Maryland farms from being a dumping ground for sludge. We commend the Caroline County Commissioners for prioritizing residents, health, and the environment.”
