Portland Metro plans $40K agreement for advanced landfill fire detection system

In a recent meeting held by the Cowlitz County Commissioners, discussions centered around enhancing community safety and emergency preparedness, particularly in relation to landfill operations and fire risks. The meeting highlighted the importance of a new agreement aimed at assisting neighboring areas during emergencies, such as natural disasters that disrupt waste disposal services.

The commissioners revisited the lessons learned from the Eagle Creek fires in 2017, which had significant impacts on waste management in the Portland Metro area. In response to similar emergencies, Cowlitz County has established contracts that allow for the transport of waste from affected regions to local landfills. While these contracts have not been heavily utilized in recent years, they serve as a crucial safety net for the community.

A key focus of the meeting was the introduction of advanced monitoring technology to prevent landfill fires. The commissioners discussed the implementation of a new camera system, Pano AI, designed to detect smoke and fire particles in the air. This system, which includes two cameras mounted on a tower at the landfill, is similar to technology used by the Department of Natural Resources for wildfire detection. The cameras will provide precise coordinates for any detected incidents, enabling quicker responses from local fire departments.

The annual cost for this monitoring system is projected at $40,000 over five years. While this investment may seem substantial, the commissioners noted that early detection of fires could potentially save costs associated with damage control and landfill repairs.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed optimism about these initiatives, emphasizing their commitment to community safety and collaboration with neighboring jurisdictions. The discussions underscored the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters, ensuring that Cowlitz County remains resilient and responsive to the needs of its residents.