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WASTE MANAGEMENT, INC. CWM Chemical Services, L.L.C. 1550 Balmer Road Model City, NY 14107
Donna Cassick (716)754-0354 Donna Ames-Cassick@WMI
Becky Zayatz (716)754-0279 Becky Zayatz@WMI
CWM owns and operates a commercial hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility (TSDF) within the Towns of Lewiston and Porter. CWM contacted the NFWHC to find out about how mowing practices on capped landfills can promote American songbird groundnesting. In addition, over seven acres of mitigation wetlands were constructed in 1995. These two programs foster habitat diversity at the Model City, NY facility. A total of approximately eight acres of wetlands were constructed, including one half mile of footpath. The wetland area consists of one deep pond, two shallow ponds and one shallow depression. The deep-water pond was designed to hold several feet of water and maintains aquatic plants throughout the year. Vegetation consisting of approximately 5,000 trees, shrubs, and plants of 21 species were planted. Most of the previously existing trees were left untouched. During construction, existing natural materials were incorporated into the wetlands. Soils removal during the initial clearing and grubbing were stockpiled and later used as final cover for the new wetlands. Trees and other woody material cleared during construction were chipped and used to create a system of walking trails. Shallow emergent marsh and deep-water marsh, plant community types not typical of the facility, were introduced with the goal of increasing biodiversity. The facility has installed bluebird houses and is evaluating future improvements to this program.
Approximately 125 acres of capped landfills and other grassed areas exist on the site. Starting in 1999, mowing was postponed in these areas until after August 31st. The increased grassland habitat will allow groundnesting birds the opportunity to raise their young in these areas. The facility has plans to expand the grassland acreage in the future.
If you are interested in touring the facility and/or the wetlands or if we can answer any questions, please feel free to contact us.
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