PIERRE, S.D. –Installation of a new baler is now complete at Pierre’s solid waste facility.
The new machine compacts all non-recycled solid waste that comes to Pierre’s solid waste facility and then bales it for optimal disposal at the city’s landfill. The new baler replaces a deteriorating baler that had been in use for more than a decade.
“Pierre’s baling facility processes all the waste collected in Pierre, Fort Pierre, Onida, Agar and Midland, as well as Hughes, Hand and Hyde Counties” said Val Keller, City Solid Waste Manager. “Running nearly 20,000 tons of trash through a baler annually takes its toll on a machine.”
With the new baler in place, the city can now process solid waste about 10% faster than it could with the older baler.
“Our new machine has newer technology and more horse power,” said Keller. “It should serve us very well for the next 15 years or so.”
Replacing the baler was no small feat. It required about two-months and $825,000 to deconstruct and remove the old baler, remove and repair concrete, and install the new machine. The solid waste facility remained open and operational throughout the transition. The project was paid for by a combination of a state grant, a state loan, and the city budget.
Pierre’s solid waste facility serves as the central processor of solid waste for the Pierre area and provides a drop off point for rubble, yard waste, and recyclable materials. The baler facility is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.
-30-