Project Number:

2857

Northampton Landfill

SERVICE:

Landfill Odor Potential and Health Risk Study

DESCRIPTION:

The Northampton Landfill had been accepting Construction and Demolition (C&D) fines as part of the MassDEP program to incorporate alternative daily covers. Unfortunately, odor potential increased dramatically from the wallboard contained in these fines. As odor potential increased residents became more aware of the landfill and requested a risk-based analysis of the landfill.

Tech environmental developed an odor and air toxic sampling program, modeling and risk comparison study. Air samples were collected from the surface with EPA approved methods. The sample results were used to calculate an emission flux for odor and toxic compounds across the landfill. The emissions estimates were used in a dispersion model to predict off-site impacts. The sampling program and results were presented to the Board of Health and to residents in a report and a public meeting format. The Board accepted the results and future air emissions efforts were refocused again on eliminating the odor concern.

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Key Points

  • Increased odor at a landfill motivated neighbors to request a risk-based air quality analysis.
  • Tech developed an odor and air toxic sampling program, modeling and risk comparison study to address neighborhood concerns.