This document was prepared by the Solid Waste Association of North America's Landfill Reclamation Task Force and is based on its professional assessment of current practices and procedures relating to the mining, excavation, recovery, and utilization of landfilled materials.

The observations and suggestions in this document should serve as a starting point for readers who are interested in furthering their knowledge of the subject matter.

After carefully considering the wisdom and feasibility of issuing recommended standards and guidelines, the Task Force concluded that such a step would be premature. As the patterns and practices associated with landfill reclamation are still emerging, it made no sense for the Task Force to attempt to fashion durable and realistic criteria and norms. Nevertheless, the Task Force has successfully delineated workable approaches that will benefit both experienced persons, as well as newcomers to the field.

SWANA plans to supplement the materials in this report from time to time as warranted by significant breakthroughs in technology and technique. Meanwhile, the Task Force invites interested persons to submit their comments or opinions.

SWANA, its members and chapters, do not assume any liability with respect to use of, or for damages resulting from the use of, any information, equipment, method, or process discussed in this report. Mere reference to such information, equipment, method, or process does not constitute an endorsement thereof of SWANA, its members and chapters.