The dramatic increase in the number and intensity of odors from the landfill continued over the weekend and into Monday. 20+ odor complaints in a day have not been unusual when the wind is been out of the West or Southwest.
Both The Conservancy Initiative and Township Supervisor, Bob Nix, have contacted the landfill. Here is what we have learned:
Advanced Disposal reports the recent odors are being caused by landfill construction to correct odor problems. A previous update alerted us to this possibility. The only project that has not been completed from this previous update is the West Haul Road Drain.
A storm drain that travels approximately 3,400 ft alongside the haul road on the west side of the landfill has failed and is allowing landfill gas to escape. The landfill is replacing approximately 150 feet of this sewer pipe per day. Each day the pipe is excavated there is an increased chance for odors.
Advanced Disposal believes this failed storm drain is the single biggest source of odors and replacement of this pipe will make a significant improvement. EGLE the failed west haul road storm drain be addressed as part of the on-going enforcement actions.
We have also contacted EGLE to make sure they are aware of the increase in odors. EGLE has been on-site several days to observe activities and has requested attention directed towards several potential odor sources.
Please continue to report odor issues if there is a persistent odor. Advanced Disposal is investigating the complaints. The complaints are also being used to gauge progress (or lack thereof). We will be publishing before and after data showing the number of complaints on our soon to be re-launched website.
The Conservancy Initiative is expecting more news related to the landfill as EGLE and USEPA to put compliance plans in place. The Conservancy Initiative will be re-launching a new and improved website in the near future to improve communications related to landfill issues. Please watch for a communication announcing the website and share it with your neighbors.