Solid Waste

Trash may not be glamorous, but it’s an essential part of keeping Emanuel County running smoothly—and no one does it better than our solid waste department. This small but mighty team, led by Wesley Shivers and supported by two skilled employees, oversees the operation of strategically-placed dumpsites and a transfer station. Their work ensures that all household garbage is collected, processed, and transferred out of the county, keeping Emanuel County proudly landfill-free for more than 2 decades.

In 2002, Emanuel County made the forward-thinking decision to do away with its landfill, recognizing the long-term environmental and community benefits of transitioning to a transfer station system. By eliminating the need for a local landfill, the county has reduced its environmental footprint, protected local ecosystems, and ensured a cleaner, healthier future for residents. This approach reflects the county’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management.

Today, the solid waste operation continues to uphold this commitment by operating a streamlined waste management system that benefits all residents.

Department Overview

The cornerstone of Emanuel County’s waste management system is the transfer station. As a central hub for processing trash, the transfer station plays a critical role in keeping the county landfill-free. This facility is where all collected waste is weighed, sorted, and prepared for transport to an approved landfill in another county through a third-party contractor. By managing waste in this way, Emanuel County ensures responsible disposal while minimizing its environmental footprint.

To complement this system, the solid waste department operates 20 dumpsites located across the county. These dumpsites provide residents with safe and convenient access to waste disposal. Once trash is dropped off at the dumpsites, it’s collected by the solid waste team and transported to the transfer station for further processing. This synergy between dumpsites and the transfer station creates an efficient, modern waste management system that meets the needs of Emanuel County residents while upholding the county’s commitment to sustainability.

The department also works closely with Keep Emanuel Beautiful to support beautification projects and community sustainability efforts, further reinforcing its dedication to a clean and green Emanuel County.