City Monitoring Yard Waste Fire at Facility

Lincoln Transportation and Utilities Department (LTU) and the Lincoln and Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) are monitoring a slow-burning fire in a pile of yard waste at the North 48th Street Solid Waste Management Facility. Residents who see or smell smoke in the area are advised that the situation is being closely monitored. 

“The fire is small and under control,” said Karla Welding, Solid Waste Management Superintendent. “This type of event can sometimes happen when heat is generated during the natural biological decomposition of the leaves and yard waste and can take several weeks to eventually burn itself out.” 

LTU is consulting with Lincoln Fire and Rescue and will engage them further if conditions change.  

LLCHD said this morning that air quality in Lincoln is rated as good but could change throughout the day. The Health Department advises residents that smoke from the fire may be detectable in and around Lincoln depending on wind conditions. Residents are encouraged to avoid prolonged activity outdoors if they smell smoke.     

“Those with respiratory or heart conditions are advised to take necessary precautions, said Gary Bergstrom, Air Quality Program Supervisor with LLCHD.” “Those most at risk are youth, older adults and sensitive individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.” 

The LLCHD monitors air quality 24 hours a day and encourages residents to check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading outdoors to stay informed of ongoing air quality conditions. The AQI is available at airnow.gov and is updated hourly. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency also provides the AirNow and SmokeSense smart phone apps to help people stay informed of the AQI.