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Information, resources and advice on flooding, debris cleanup now available
Weekly News Article Published: June 17, 2008 by the Central Office
MADISON - Homeowners and businesses facing the difficult task of cleaning up after floodwaters recede can find updated information on dealing with flood debris cleanup on the Department of Natural Resources Web site.
As floodwaters begin to recede, the DNR is urging residents and volunteers to use caution as they return to homes and begin the cleanup process.
“Our primary goal is to help people stay safe, both during and after these devastating storms and floods. In addition to our dam inspectors and engineers who are working hard to limit further damage, our waste management specialists and other staff are working to aid recovery efforts,” notes DNR Secretary Matt Frank.
Residents in flooded areas who rely on private wells for drinking water should suspect that their wells may have been contaminated. If there is any change in taste, color or sediment in water, residents should immediately stop drinking it and follow instructions on the DNR Web site for testing the well.
Residents and volunteers beginning to clean up flooded businesses, homes, basements and garages can find useful guidance on a new Coping with Flood Cleanup Web page from the DNR Waste and Materials Management program for advice on how to safely sort through and dispose of debris and waste. The page is an addition other Coping with Flooding information available on the DNR Web site.
“As people start the tough job of cleaning up, we hope they protect their own safety and protect the environment, which was also damaged in these tragic floods,” says Suzanne Bangert director of the DNR Bureau of Waste and Materials Management.
“If your home or business has been affected by flooding, you may be overwhelmed and just want to remove everything and take it to a landfill. This is certainly understandable, given the circumstances, but we urge people to separate out hazardous and recyclable materials wherever possible.”
The bottom line, Bangert said, is to not burn or bury debris, recycle where practical, separate hazardous materials and landfill the rest. Above all, be safe.
“Our staff are already working with waste haulers and landfill operators to make sure disposal services will be available locally,” she said. “We hope people will not burn flood debris because burning would just add to the damage to people's health and our environment.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Suzanne Bangert, director, Bureau of Waste and Materials Management, at (608) 266-0014
View all articles in this issue or check our previous Weekly News Issues.
