Solid Waste Master Plan

The County has spent the past twenty-five years developing an integrated solid waste management system that includes accessible, cost-effective solid waste options for its residents, businesses, and visitors. The County’s system has focused on recycling and proper management of waste. Extensive planning has been conducted to determine the best locations for waste and recycling collection and management sites.

The County Board is interested in implementing a “Towards Zero Landfill” initiative in Otter Tail County. Further, the County recognizes that certain improvements are needed to accomplish its Solid Waste Management goals. The development of the Solid Waste Master Plan helped articulate needed infrastructure improvement and programming to move “Towards Zero Landfill” and better serve residents. In order to achieve desired outcomes, the development of the Solid Waste Master Plan answered two key questions:

1. What does the County want Solid Waste operations to look like in 25 years?
2. What policies, programs, and facilities does the County need to promote and/or enhance in order to achieve a “Towards Zero Landfill” initiative?

Project Timeline

The Otter Tail County Solid Waste Master Plan was developed over an 18 month process, and was completed in 2021. The process included a range of data collection and technical analysis elements, tied to engagement from Otter Tail County Residents. Throughout the course of the plan’s development, engagement opportunities were held to understand residents’ goals and desires for solid waste management.

View or print the completed Solid Waste Master Plan.

Otter Tail County’s Solid Waste Ordinance protects the public’s health and safety, and the environment and resources of Otter Tail County, from improper management of solid waste. The Otter Tail County Solid Waste Master Plan was an opportunity to create guidance for the management of solid waste throughout the County and to guide investments and decision making.

Per Minnesota Statute, county Solid Waste Management Plans and revisions to those plans are required to be submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to ensure compliance with MPCA’s Solid Waste Management Policy Plan. The Solid Waste Master Plan will inform updates to the County’s Solid Waste Management Plan.