Northwest Arkansas Storm Debris Cleanup Efforts
Debris Collection Rates Reach Record Highs
In the aftermath of the May storms, communities in Northwest Arkansas have been working tirelessly to clean up millions of cubic yards of debris. Bentonville, Rogers, and Benton County together collected an impressive 2.1 million cubic yards of storm debris, a testament to the collective effort and determination of residents and city officials.
Bentonville's Storm Debris Disposal Efforts
Understanding the Debris Removal Process in Bentonville
Bentonville residents have been busy sorting and disposing of their storm debris. The city set up a designated compost facility at 2000 NW A Street, where residents can dispose of vegetative storm debris like tree limbs and branches. To access the facility, residents must present a valid ID and proof of residency, such as a City of Bentonville utility bill. As of June 20, 2024, wood chips are free to anyone but cannot be hauled or unloaded by the facility.
Benton County’s Debris Pickup Schedule
Benton County’s debris removal efforts have been systematic, with a second pass beginning on Monday, August 18. Residents were asked to move all debris to the curb right-of-way to ensure efficient and complete removal by collection crews. They were also advised to sort debris into three categories: vegetative material, construction and demolition debris, and household hazardous waste[1].
Rogers’ Curbside Debris Pickup Progress
In Rogers, the city has made significant strides in curbside debris pickup. By August 12, 2024, the city had collected an astonishing 1.1 million cubic yards of debris. The final pass is expected to take about two weeks, and residents are encouraged to get their debris to the curb as soon as possible. Sorting the debris properly is crucial; vegetative material like trees and limbs should be separated from construction materials like roofing shingles and treated lumber[3].
Community Support and Volunteer Efforts
The recovery process has not been just about numbers; it’s also about community support and volunteer efforts. Organizations like Samaritan’s Purse have played a pivotal role by cleaning up over 300 homes since the storm hit. They still have around 300 more homes to assist, symbolizing the ongoing commitment to helping those in need during this difficult time[5].
Local Resources for Debris Disposal
Residents need access to reliable resources for disposing of their debris. In Rogers, the Yard Waste Facility at 2300 N. Arkansas St. is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM, accepting only yard waste. Free mulch is available for pickup at this site. Conversely, Benton County Solid Waste operates at 2307 N. Arkansas St., collecting additional items like household hazardous waste and tires[2].
As Northwest Arkansas continues to heal and rebuild, the extensive debris cleanup efforts stand as a testament to resilience and community spirit. Each step towards recovery marks a significant milestone in what promises to be a long and challenging journey toward normalcy.
