Caroline County Proposes Stricter Food Processing Sludge Rules

During a July 10 meeting, the Caroline County Planning Commission considered new regulations that would strengthen local oversight of the storage of food processing residues, also known as industrial sludge or dynamic air flotation (DAF).

Over the past year, Caroline County residents have experienced adverse health effects and nuisances from the irresponsible handling of food processing waste. It prompted county commissioners in December to pass a moratorium on the use of land or structures to store the material. Hundreds of residents attended the hearings, many testifying that the rancid material posed a threat to their local environment, rivers and streams, public health and way of life.

In March, the Maryland General Assembly passed legislation that now requires a permit for processing and applying sludge to agricultural land. Caroline County commissioners supported the bill and played a key role in its passage. This new action by commissioners complements popular bipartisan state legislation requiring food processing waste handlers in Caroline to have a permit and meet certain conditions designed to protect the public and the environment from harm.

A public hearing on the bill is tentatively scheduled for July 23.

In a statement, Chesapeake Bay Foundation Maryland advocacy director Alan Girard said:

“This district law was passed at the right time and place.

“The overuse and irresponsible storage of food processing residues poses an urgent threat to our environment and health. People in Caroline County and Maryland have expressed concerns about this material, and this legislation is a direct response.

“Storing and using food processing waste should not put the public and waterways at risk. Caroline County’s proposed bill works with state legislation passed earlier this year to prevent Maryland farms from becoming dumping grounds for this putrid material. We applaud the Caroline County Commissioners for continuing to find solutions that protect communities, public health and the environment.”

Valerie Keefer

Maryland Communications & Media Relations Manager, CBF

(email protected)
443-482-2023