What environmental protection systems are in place at the landfill?
The network of environmental protection systems at the SEMCO Landfill starts with a composite liner that is made of clay and synthetic material. A minimum of two feet of clay is compacted to increase the impermeability of the liner. A 60-mil high-density plastic membrane is placed over the clay. The liner system meets all state and federal regulations. The liner system is overlain by a leachate collection system consisting of a geocomposite drainage layer and a network of perforated pipe. The leachate collection system collects any liquids that infiltrate and percolate through the waste, and transports these liquids to collection tanks. Once collected, this liquid is either re-circulated through the waste, or transported from the landfill to a wastewater facility for treatment. Rainfall, which is diverted from the landfill, must also be managed. Storm water runoff is collected and contained in a sediment pond. The ponds allow soil particles to settle out of the water before it is disch
