The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station with the planting of 33 shade trees on the Derwood site to increase the tree canopy and beautify the grounds. Fourteen different species of trees were planted throughout the site in May.
This beautification project is the first of its kind at the transfer station and is the first of several planned landscaping projects for the property.
The Transfer Station is located at 16101 Frederick Road in Derwood. The County Recycling Center is adjacent to it. Both facilities are generally open seven days a week to accept trash and items for recycling. Last year, the transfer station received more than 730,208 tons of waste and the recycling center took in more than 70,000 tons of recyclable material.
At the Transfer Station, residents can dispose of trash, yard waste, construction and demolition materials, as well as concrete, dirt or rubble. There is no charge to residents for disposing of waste less than 500 pounds.
“Planting trees is an important part of our Climate Action Plan. Trees provide oxygen and improve air quality while conserving water and preserving the soil,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “I applaud the staff at DEP for their forward thinking in planting these trees that will serve a practical purpose while creating an appealing space for residents who bring their waste to the Transfer Station.”
The Transfer Station and Processing Facility opened in June 1982. The Recycling Center opened in 1991.
The trees that were planted include the American elm, the American sycamore and the Loblolly pine, which are well suited for the area. All trees at the site have “fuzz or hair” on their leaves to capture and hold dust and pollution.
“As part of the beautification efforts, more trees will be planted this fall,” said DEP Acting Director Adriana Hochberg. “The planting of trees is just the beginning of our plans to elevate the experience for our residents and businesses who visit the Transfer Station.”
For more information about the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station, visit https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/sws/facilities/ts/.