The Department of Environmental Protection Tuesday signed a consent order and agreement with Waste Management Disposal Services of Pennsylvania Inc. that requires the company to pay a $290,000 civil penalty and correct numerous violations at its Northwest Sanitary Landfill in Clay Township, Butler County.

“Our inspectors found multiple recurring violations at the landfill,” DEP Northwest Regional Director Kelly Burch said. “The owners repeatedly failed to address and correct problems and deficiencies that staff discovered. As a result, we have entered into a Consent Order and Agreement that imposes fines for the violations and sets forth plans and monitoring requirements to ensure future compliance.”

DEP inspections identified repeated violations of Northwest Landfill’s operating permit and odor control plan, as well as issues with daily and intermediate cover on disturbed areas, landfill gases, equipment maintenance and personnel training.

On several occasions, staff observed significant violations involving handling and storage of liquid wastewater, or leachate. The company failed to adequately collect and contain leachate in approved disposal areas, as is required by the Solid Waste Management Act and other regulations.

DEP worked with Waste Management to develop a consent order and agreement that requires the company to take major corrective actions, including air monitoring for hydrogen sulfide gas; implementing a revised Landfill Odor Control Plan; and covering exposed areas of the landfill that inspectors have identified as needing cover.

Additionally, the company must submit to DEP monthly progress reports that list corrective actions completed in the preceding month; conduct training for all landfill employees in waste handling activities; and repair or replace leachate tanks.

12/10/2012