Elk Run Landfill cited for violation

by Peter Jakey–

Managing Editor Owners of the Elk Run Landfill in Allis Township have been found in violation of Part 115, Solid Waste Management, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. On February 22, Department of Environmental Quality staff inspected the type II landfill, which is located in section five. The purpose of the inspection was to evaluate compliance with the act.

During the inspection ?odors were detected along the east boundary of the landfill near the leachate riser pipes,? stated a report written February 29 by John J. Ozoga, III, lead-worker environmental engineer of the waste and hazardous materials division. ?Over the past two weeks, the DEQ has received several complaints from the local health department of odors being detected by residents located adjacent to the landfill,? Ozoga?s report stated. TOWNSHIP RESIDENT Wayne Vermilya recently went before the Presque Isle County Board of Commissioners

on behalf of Thelma Curtis, who lives near the landfill, to tell them of the overpowering odor. The DEQ also received a complaint filed with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Chicago, Illinois.

The letter, which was sent by certified mail to Ken Schaedig, manager of the facility, cited a regulation regarding explosive gas control and monitoring for type II landfill operation. It states, ?The owner and operator of a type II landfill shall ensure of the following?the gases generated by the facility do not create a nuisance and are not otherwise in violation of part 55 of the act at the property boundary.?

By April 1, 2008, the DEQ is requiring that a work plan be submitted addressing how the odors will be abated. The operators indicate that gas flares are to be installed on leachate riser pipes within 60 days.