How much earth should be placed on refuse at the end of the day?

The correct answer is that 6 inches of earth should be placed on refuse at the end of the day. Covering refuse with this amount of soil is essential for several reasons. It helps to control odors, reduces the attraction of birds and vermin, and minimizes the risk of blowing debris. Adequate daily cover also aids in preventing water from percolating through the waste, thus reducing leachate generation and potential soil and water contamination.

The choice of 6 inches strikes a balance between providing enough coverage to mitigate these issues while still allowing for operational efficiency in managing the refuse site. This practice is a standard guideline in landfill management and is enforced to ensure that environmental health standards are met, protecting both public health and the environment.