Agenda - Council - 09/13/1982 - Special

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12 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I Odors Odors develop as refuse decomposes. At a landfill, the extent to which odors will be a problem depends on the volume of garbage dumped, the length of time it remains uncovered, wind speed and direction and local topography. In addi- tion, the impact from odors is difficult to quantify or assess because people have different levels of sensitivity to smells. Odors will be a problem only during operation of the landfill. It is difficult to eliminate odors at a landfill completely. The problem can be alleviated by establishing a large buffer area and by ensuring that solid waste is covered as soon as possible after it is dropped off~ Odors from landfills are regulated by the PCA under its air pollution regula- tions. The Council's review criteria require operators to implement'routine measures to control odors. With Council approval, local units of government may require landfills to meet certain performance standards for odors. Gas Production Gas production in a sanitary landfill is the result of the microbial decomposi- tion of organic fill materials. The composition of gases produced in the fill depends upon the composition of the solid waste, the presence of oxygen, carbon monoxide and other gases, and the age of the landfill. Methane gas (CH~) is produced as municipal solid waste decomposes. The rate at which methan~ is produced depends on several factors, including the age of: the landfill, percent moisture present, temperature, presence of anaerobic bacteria and composition of gases within the landfill. Generally, methane production begins slowly, rises rapidly, peaks and .then begins a slow decline. The possibility of fire and explosions from landfills occur when methane gas seeps out of the fill and concentrates in enclosed areas, such as adjacent sewer lines or building foundations. In properly designed landfills, methane gas is usually collected and vented to the atmosphere. Eliminating adverse effects from methane gas production is possible through the proper planning of the design and construction of landfills to ensure adequate venting of methane. State rules require that gases be vented into the atmosphere to prevent explosive concentrations. Local concerns about this matter should be presented during the review of the facility's permit application by the Council or the PCA. LOSS OF VEGETATION OR WILDLIFE Construction and operation of a sanitary landfill could have a considerable impact on natural vegetation and wildlife in the area, depending on the size and location of the facility. However, the severity of the impact would depend on the type and nature of the existing vegetation and whether an identifiable ecosystem would be affected. Selecting a site that was previously farmed would not constitute severe loss of natural vegetation or wildlife. In such cases, the loss of natural vegetation occurred when the land was cleared for growing crops. When a landfill is closed, the land could be replanted with vegetation and wildlife restored.