Multiple agencies respond to large mulch fire at Bees Ferry Landfill

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) — Firefighters from multiple agencies responded to a large mulch and log fire at the Bees Ferry Landfill on Saturday afternoon, temporarily halting operations due to severe storms before containing the blaze.

St. Andrews Chief Fire Marshal Kevin Berkel said crews from the St. Andrews, St. Johns, and City of Charleston fire departments were dispatched to the landfill at 3:05 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, they found a working fire in a large pile of mulch and logs.

Before first responders arrived, a subcontractor had attempted to contain the fire using heavy equipment and a water truck. Firefighters set up handlines and used a tower ladder to pour water from above, coordinating with the heavy equipment operators to dismantle and extinguish the burning pile.

Operations were temporarily paused due to severe thunderstorms and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning. Charleston County Rescue responded to assist with crew rehabilitation, while representatives from the Charleston County Landfill monitored air quality.

Once the fire was contained, officials turned the scene over to the subcontractor and landfill personnel to continue excavation and final extinguishment.

As of Sunday afternoon, subcontractors were still working the piles with heavy equipment and water. Landfill officials confirmed that no trash piles were involved in the fire, but they warned that smoke could affect adjacent neighborhoods depending on atmospheric conditions.