Cedar Trail Landfill - Operational Landfill in Bartow, Florida

Cedar Trail Landfill is an operational solid waste management facility located at 2500 State Road 60 W in Bartow, Florida, within Polk County. As a landfill, it serves the region's waste disposal needs, handling municipal solid waste generated by local communities and businesses. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), specifically RCRA Subtitle D for municipal solid waste landfills and Clean Air Act requirements for landfill gas management. These regulations mandate leachate collection systems, groundwater monitoring, and gas control measures to mitigate environmental impacts. The landfill's NAICS code 562212 indicates it is classified as a solid waste landfill. Cedar Trail Landfill plays a key role in Polk County's waste management infrastructure, providing essential disposal capacity for the area. Its location in central Florida, a region with high groundwater tables and sensitive ecosystems, underscores the importance of proper liner systems and leachate management to protect local water resources.

Central Florida's high water table and porous limestone geology make groundwater protection a critical concern for landfills. Cedar Trail Landfill must employ robust liner and leachate collection systems to prevent contamination of the Floridan Aquifer, a primary drinking water source. Additionally, methane generation from decomposing waste requires active gas collection to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate odor impacts on nearby communities. The facility's proximity to residential areas and traffic routes also necessitates careful management of truck movements and dust control.