Remediation Update

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The following information relates to the on-going remediation of the Countywide Recycling and Disposal Facility and the steps to manage odors from the landfill.

Background:

Odors from a landfill are the byproduct of the decomposition process as waste breaks down inside of the landfill.  As part of this decomposition process, the landfill settles over time.  In 2006, Countywide experienced a rapid breakdown of some waste in an older portion of the landfill.  This rapid decomposition process resulted in excessive landfill gas and a settlement of the landfill that was more rapid than expected (typical landfill settlement occurs over a 30 - 40 year period).  There is no environmental threat or public heath threat from the rapid decomposition or settling of waste within the landfill. 

The management team at Countywide took immediate action to control odors at the landfill.  Actions included:

• Installing additional landfill gas recovery wells to collect excess landfill gas from the landfill.
• Expanding the landfill gas management system by connecting the wells to a landfill gas vacuum extraction system which effectively removed excess gas from the landfill.
• The landfill gas collection wells are continuously adjusted in an effort to maximize extraction while minimizing air intrusion.
• Installed an extensive odor neutralizing system around the landfill.

These measures were effective in controlling odors from the site.  Countywide will continue efforts to reduce odors.  We work closely with experts from the Ohio EPA to carefully monitor the site to ensure an environmentally sound operation.