A section of Gunpowder Falls State Park is home to a towering rubble landfill, operated by Days Cove Reclamation Co. Environmental groups and local officials are urging the state to reject a permit renewal that would double the amount of treated leachate discharged into nearby rivers.
The 456-acre site was purchased from two brothers in 1986, allowing it to remain operational despite being part of the state park. The landfill has been generating significant revenue for the state, but environmental concerns have sparked debate about the arrangement.
Critics argue that the state’s financial stake in the landfill raises conflicts of interest and that communities near the site may not benefit from the revenue generated by the landfill. Opponents also point to recent instances of pollution exceeding permit limits.
The state has defended its decision-making process, stating that permits will be decided based on science and regulations designed to protect public health and the environment. However, a public hearing last month drew hundreds of community members concerned about potential harm to the ecosystem.
A Baltimore County council member has introduced a resolution calling for the shutdown of the facility, citing that “no amount of money” can erase the damage caused by the landfill.
Source: https://www.thebanner.com/community/local-news/gunpowder-falls-state-park-days-cove-landfill-YBDLLBVAW5BU7BX72AQRI7KTTQ