Oregon DEQ Seeking Comments on Facility

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is seeking comments involving the renewal of an existing solid waste material recovery facility for 10 years.

The company, Roofgone Inc., Springfield, Ore., currently has a permit that expires in 2010. The DEQ is choosing to open the permit for renewal for the following reasons: concerns for the environment and human health resulting from possible inappropriate use of the No-Spark bark product in mulch applications; and clarification of permit requirements, including asbestos sampling and testing requirements, and financial assurance requirements.

The facility receives material from both residential and commercial roofing tear-offs for recovery and recycling purposes.

According to the DEQ, the facility is presently not in compliance with the financial assurance requirements under the current permit. The DEQ has responded to complaints about blowing debris originating from a product generated at the facility and applied to gravel roads.

Written comments are due by April 1. Comments may be sent to Bob Barrows by mail, fax or e-mail.

Information can be sent to the following: Oregon DEQ, Solid Waste Program, 750 Front St., NE Suite 120, Salem, OR 97301. Fax: (503) 378-4196. E-mail: barrows.bab@deq.state.or.us.