Mountain View Reclamation Landfill

About the Program
First certified in 2007, WM's Mountain View Reclamation property covers approximately 750 acres in south central Pennsylvania, of which 400 acres are managed as wildlife habitat. The habitat areas are composed of wetlands, woodlands and open grasslands. In addition, ten ponds and three streams provide habitat for different types of waterfowl, amphibians and fish. Approximately 100 acres of property are restricted to Pheasants Forever; together, they have planted nearly 50 acres of warm season grasses to provide habitat for grassland birds.

Practices and Impacts

• Employees maintain and monitor nest boxes as well as bat boxes throughout the property, cleaning them annually after the nesting season.
• The bluebird nest boxes attract a variety of cavity-nesting songbirds such as tree swallows.
• The team also partnered with a high-school environmental club to plant a garden with black-eyed Susan, common yarrow, and purple coneflower, which will provide food for pollinators, and is flourishing.
• The team created brush piles at multiple locations, and employees observed a red fox and birds using the piles for cover.
• In an effort to promote environmental awareness, the team involves students and community members in landfill tours to teach the importance of environmental protection and sustainability.
• In addition, various universities and colleges conduct environmental research projects and stream water studies on-site.