Spectrum - Volume 18 Issue 34 June 27, 1996 - Pathological Incinerator discontinuing operation

A non-profit publication of the Office of the University Relations of Virginia Tech,
including The Conductor , a special section of the Spectrum printed 4 times a year

Pathological Incinerator discontinuing operation

Spectrum Volume 18 Issue 34 - June 27, 1996

The Virginia Tech Pathological Incinerator, located north of Prices Fork Road and west of Rt. 460, is scheduled to discontinue operation as of August 1.

The incinerator has been operating for more than 20 years. Despite timely maintenance and repairs, continued problems with the unit warranted a recent inspection by an incinerator-technologies consulting firm. The inspection prompted immediate repair of the gas train and a detailed study and cost estimate of what would be required to fully repair the unit to a reliable operational condition.

The high cost of the necessary renovation (more than $400,000), coupled with approval from the Montgomery Solid Waste Authority for routine disposal of animal carcasses in the Mid-County Landfill and the possibility of a new veterinary waste disposal facility being constructed on the campus, made clear that continued operation of the incinerator was not in the best interests of the university.

After August 1, animal carcasses should be taken to the Mid-County Landfill for disposal. Pick-up of animal parts from labs, a service now provided by the Physical Plant Grounds Department, will continue as usual. Carcasses must arrive at the Montgomery Regional Solid Waste Authority Landfill by noon to be accepted for disposal. The landfill is open Monday through Saturday.

For more information or assistance, call Larry Bechtel at 1-9915.