How much daily cover is required on a landfill at the end of the day?

Daily cover on a landfill is critical for various operational and environmental reasons. The requirement for 6 inches of daily cover strikes a balance between operational practicality and environmental protection. This amount is generally sufficient to control odors, minimize blowing litter, and deter pests such as birds and rodents. Additionally, covering the waste adequately helps to prevent water infiltration into the waste mass, which can reduce leachate generation and consequently limit potential groundwater contamination.

In some regulatory contexts, 6 inches has been established as a standard practice to ensure that the landfill operates effectively while aligning with environmental health guidelines. This helps maintain safety and compliance with local and state regulations, as well as promoting public health and safety by mitigating potential nuisances associated with waste disposal activities.

The other thickness options would typically either provide too little protection or may be excessive, leading to unnecessary use of cover material without additional benefits. Thus, 6 inches is the generally accepted and required standard for daily landfill cover to ensure proper management and compliance with environmental health practices.