Materials Storage, Disposal & Spills
Why Care About Material Storage, Disposal and Spills?
- Material and waste from construction sites can be blown or washed into a street, gutter or storm drain. This material may eventually find its way to streams and Lake Whatcom. Biodegradable materials can result in increased BOD (biological oxygen demand) levels in water bodies. BOD measures the amount of oxygen needed to breakdown the material or waste. This increased demand on oxygen can result in a depletion of dissolved oxygen in streams and other waterbodies. Depressed dissolved oxygen concentrations can be very stressful on oxygen-breathing organisms such as fish. In addition, low dissolved oxygen concentrations affect water chemistry and may result in other water quality impairments including increases in algal growth. Non-biodegradable materials can result in flooding if storm drains and pipes become clogged. These materials can also create hazards for wildlife.
- Many of the paints, solvents, and adhesives used at construction sites contain chemicals that are harmful to wildlife and humans. When these materials or the tools used to apply them are not stored, handled or disposed of properly, there is a potential for chemical residues to reach Lake Whatcom and other waterbodies by way of storm drains, ditches, and streams.
- As a contractor, site supervisor, owner or operator of a construction site, it is possible that you may be held responsible for environmental or property damage caused by your subcontractors or employees.
Need Information on Material Storage, Disposal and Spills?
There are a variety of steps you can take at construction sites that will reduce the chance of material and wastes from construction sites reaching area streams and Lake Whatcom. Whatcom County Solid Waste Department and City of Bellingham Public Works can provide information on proper disposal and handling of materials and wastes handled and generated at construction sites.
- Whatcom County Solid Waste Department: 676-7695 for information on material and solid waste disposal.
- The Bellingham/Whatcom County Disposal of Toxics Program: 380-4640 for information on material and waste disposal including paints, solvents, and adhesives.
- Bellingham Public Works, Solid Waste Collection and Disposal: 734-3490 for information on solid waste disposal within Bellingham.
- Washington State Spill Response Program: (425) 649-7000 to report all spills.
- Call 911 to report large spills.
