A release from Koochiching County's Environment Services Department highlights what to do with sand and sandbags used during flood relief efforts.
Sand and sandbags used during flood events might be contaminated, according to officials. Some sources of contamination include gas, oil, pesticides, bacteria and numerous other products. All sand and sandbags must be used or disposed of at a location approved by Koochiching County. There are several options for reuse or disposal of sand and sandbags. These options must be reviewed on a case by case basis. People are encouraged to call the Environmental Services Department at 283-1157.
- In some cases clean sand can be uses as fill. Contact ESD to evaluate potential fill sites and/or other options for on-site bag emptying. Do not use sand to fill wetland areas.
- Clean sand can be stockpiled and reused for various purposes such as road construction or winter
All sand must be placed in an area where it will have no contact with humans. Do not use flood and for sand boxes, playgrounds or gardens.
- Sandbags that have been filled should not be stored for long period of time. Bags can be stored for reuse during the same flood season but must be disposed of after that.
- Uncontaminated full bags can be used as fill in approved areas. Bags used for this purpose must be covered with soil. No bags are allowed in wetland or shore impact areas.
- Uncontaminated full bags can be disposed of at the Koochiching County Demolition Landfill or other county approved facility.
- All empty bags must be disposed of at the Koochiching County Transfer Station or another county-approved location.
- If a homeowner or business has a question regarding contaminated please call the Environmental
For more information contact Environmental Services at 283-1157.
