The Chiquita Canyon Landfill in Castaic, California, has officially ceased accepting waste as of January 1, 2025. This decision follows a series of regulatory and legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed by ACTS Law on behalf of local residents.
Residential and commercial waste has been disposed of at the landfill since 1972, which in turn caused nearby residents to endure a toxic living environment. In recent years, it faced scrutiny due to environmental concerns, notably an elevated temperature landfill (ETLF) reaction in a portion of the site. This reaction led to increased production of landfill gas and leachate, resulting in noxious odors and potential health risks for nearby communities.
In June 2024, ACTS Law filed a lawsuit representing residents from Val Verde, Live Oak, Hasley Hills, Hillcrest Parkway, Hasley Canyon, and Stevenson Ranch. The suit alleges that the landfill’s operations exposed these communities to elevated levels of toxic substances, including hydrogen sulfide, methane, and benzene, leading to various health issues.
On December 31, 2024, Waste Connections, the landfill’s operator, announced the cessation of active waste disposal operations, citing the current regulatory environment as a factor that rendered continued operations economically unviable.
The closure has been met with mixed reactions. While some residents express relief, others remain concerned about the lingering environmental effects and the adequacy of remediation efforts. Local authorities are now tasked with addressing the logistical challenges of redirecting waste previously managed by Chiquita Canyon, which accounted for approximately one-third of the county’s waste in 2023.
ACTS Law continues to advocate for affected residents, emphasizing the importance of holding responsible parties accountable and ensuring comprehensive remediation of the site. The firm remains committed to seeking justice for those impacted by the landfill’s operations.
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