In Hanover Park we have been concerned following the inspections that occurred last November 2007. The presence of methane underground that has leeched away from the landfill required special investigations and research. I have been following the progress since then, enlisting our legislators and others in the assurance that the methane gas would be removed and that assurances would be made that his problem would be cleared up and the area restored. I have included my letter and a response from IEPA below.
Last night, at a meeting with the EPA, residents received a briefing on the extraction of methane outside the boarders of the landfill. The gas removal outside the landfill has been a point of discussion for some time. What is safe and prudent given the surrounding environment. The method of choice will involve about a half-dozen gas extraction wells and five temporary thermal oxidizing units. Three of these will be placed strategically in Hawk Hollow and the other three along Zepplin Drive, County Farm Road, and Goddard Lane. These methane removal systems are the size of a small trailer that has an engine that runs on propane and methane gases. They will be in place for a minimum of four months and not longer than nine months. I agree with this choice given the alternatives evaluated and reviewed.
The extraction units were demonstrated in the parking lot following the meeting and we were able to see and hear them operate. The noise is very low and it operates from a small 4-cylinder engine. The operation is closely monitored, and the process has been reviewed by the Fire Department who assures us that the operation is safe. The Village will be asking that the extraction facility be sound proofed and surrounded by a fence. We believe this is the best choice for gas extraction, as alternatives involve tearing up the road, lawns, and running pipe over long distances. Additionally, these type wells and extraction devices have been successful within the boundaries of the la ndfill where gas has diminished to a zero level.
Concerning the homes that have wells and septic along County Farm Road, I requested funds to see this is rectified. There is no movement on this matter. There is a policy issue with the Forest Preserve District we can discuss when you have an opportunity.
I was also informed that there is an additional leak of methane gas at the Northeast corner of the landfill. It is near Greenbrook School, the Principal has been advised. I called Gary Ofisher, Business & Finance Manager for Dist 20, today and he is aware. The Landfill Operator will be installing additional monitoring devices between the school and the landfill. This is breaking news. I will be watching this closely as the problem evolves. The integrity of the landfill is in question and people are rightly concerned.
Letter to the EPA from Rod Craig
Mallard Lake Landfill Plan from the EPA
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