1.0 Scope of Disclosure
Transcription
1.0 Scope of Disclosure
November 2006 Dale Ozdoba Director Post Collection, Landfills and Recycling Waste Management of Canada Corporation 12707 - 170th Street Edmonton, Alberta T5V 1L9 Dear Dale Re: Proposed WMCC Thorhild Landfill Regulatory disclosure document Further to your recent instructions, please find following the regulatory disclosure information for the proposed Waste Management of Canada Corporation (“WMCC”) Thorhild Landfill (“the Landfill”). This submission is intended to meet the requirements of Section 1.0 (Disclosure Process) of the Standards for Landfills in Alberta (“Standards for Landfills”), published by Alberta Environment in May 2004. 1.0 Scope of Disclosure The purpose of this disclosure document is to allow Alberta Environment to identify significant regulatory flaws (if any) in the proposed project, and to offer guidance regarding any modifications to the proposed work plan which would facilitate the approval process. The current document addresses the following aspects of the proposed project: introduction to the project proponent; overview of proposed project, including the need for the project; 4246 – 97th Street proponent’s understanding of regulatory process; Edmonton, Alberta outline of proposed approach to establishment of environmental baseline data; outline of proposed approach to design, operational, monitoring and closure; outline of proposed approach to public consultation; and a schedule for the critical items leading to the filing of an application. Adelantar Consulting Suite 203 T6E 5Z9 A division of 1219146 Alberta Ltd T: +1.780.932.3434 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 2.0 Overview of Proposed Project and Proponent 2.1 Location and local setting The Landfill will be located in the County of Thorhild approximately 3km south of the Hamlet of Newbrook, as shown on Figure 1, and will be located within Section 19 - Township 61 - Range 20 th - west of the 4 Meridian. The Landfill is surrounded primarily by relatively flat-lying land that is used predominantly for agricultural purposes, including cattle grazing, crop land and peat farms. The site under consideration is approximately 1 km west of Highway 63, and is bounded to the north by Township Road 614, to the east by Range Road 205, and to the west by Range Road 210. A Canadian National Rail line runs parallel to and northwest of Highway 63. The proposed location of the landfill relative to surrounding geographic features is illustrated on Figure 2. The proposed location of the landfill relative to surrounding residences is illustrated on Figure 3. 2.2 Project proponent 2.2.1 WMCC company description WMCC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Waste Management Incorporated, and is a leading provider of comprehensive waste management services, offering advanced residential, commercial and industrial collection, recycling and disposal services throughout North America. 2.2.2 WMCC in Alberta WMCC employs 415 people in Alberta, 200 of whom live and work in northern Alberta. The company’s Alberta operation currently includes landfills in Big Valley and West Edmonton, and recycling facilities in Edmonton and Red Deer. In addition, WMCC operates the City of Edmonton’s single stream recycling facility under contract. Page 2 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 During the time in which they have been operated by WMCC, neither the Big Valley nor the West Edmonton landfill has been cited by Alberta Environment for contravention of environmental legislation. In addition, there has not been a recordable negative impact on groundwater at either of these locations while under WMCC ownership. 2.2.3 WMCC agreement with Thorhild County In Spring 2006, WMCC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with the County of Thorhild (“the County”), which allowed WMCC to begin the formal siting process for a Class II landfill within the County. The County of Thorhild and the Village of Thorhild are members of the Thorhild Regional Waste Management Services Commission (“the Commission”), It is indicated in the MOU that the proposed landfill project is intended to provide benefit to Commission members. The MOU outlines the principles that form the basis of a formal hosting agreement to be signed in the future which is to include conditions that address operational criteria, and financial and other long-term benefits to the County and to the Commission. 2.3 Project benefits WMCC believes the Landfill will benefit residents and the community in the following ways: by providing a waste disposal option for the Commission, which will allow the Commission to close existing landfills within the County; by providing job opportunities in the local region. WMCC will need personnel and contractors to construct and operate the landfill and to provide waste transportation. It is expected that the project will create approximately 30 jobs between hauling contractors and WM operations staff; by using local suppliers and contractors whenever reasonably possible; and by contributing money to the community through a variety of funding mechanisms potentially including hosting fees, royalty payments and community programs. In addition, WMCC will make a number of one-time payments to the County over the life of the project. Page 3 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 2.4 Project need The Minister of Environment in Alberta has indicated that his vision for Alberta includes 'no new landfills by 2020'. To accommodate this vision, municipalities and private companies must develop new facilities or ensure that existing facilities will have enough capacity for a significant lifespan. The West Edmonton Landfill (which is currently owned and operated by WMCC, and receives 3 approximately 600,000m of waste per year from numerous institutional, commercial, industrial and municipal customers in northern Alberta), is expected to reach capacity in 5 to 7 years at current waste input rates. A replacement for this important disposal facility for will be needed prior to the expiry of air-space at the West Edmonton facility. It is understood that the existing landfills operated by the Commission are proceeding towards imminent closure in accordance with commitments made by the Commission to Alberta Environment. Alternate waste disposal arrangements are needed by the Commission members for wastes that are currently disposed at these facilities. These wastes would be accommodated by the proposed project. On the basis of the above, it is apparent that the proposed Thorhild Landfill project would allow the proponent to provide uninterrupted waste management service to the company’s existing clients, the local community and other waste generators in and around the Alberta Capital Region. 2.5 Regulatory setting The Waste Control Regulation under the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, and the Standards for Landfills provide the current regulatory requirements for the siting, design, 1 construction, closure and monitoring of landfills in Alberta . The Standards for Landfills includes 1 Until the updated regulatory revisions are legislated, the Standards will only apply to landfills or lateral expansions as required by the Director issuing landfill approvals or reviewing applications for registration. It is expected that those responsible for landfills, including consultants, will use the Standards to prepare approval and registration applications and improve landfill design, operation, and closure measures. Page 4 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 an outline of the minimum requirements for development, operation, monitoring, closure and the post-closure care of Class I, Class II, and Class III landfills, and have been taken as the principal source of regulatory guidance in the development of the project to date. 2.6 Nature of application An application will be made for an Operating Approval for a Class II landfill under the Alberta Environment Protection and Enhancement Act. It is expected that separate applications will be filed with the following agencies for activities related to the project (as required); Alberta Environment (for a Licence under the Alberta Water Act regarding the use and diversion of water, if required); Thorhild County (for a Development Permit under the Land Use Bylaw); and Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation (for a permit to develop a turn bay, acceleration and deceleration lanes on Highway 63, if required). 2.7 Overview of key design features The Landfill project will include the following key design features: lined landfill containment design; landfill gas management system; leachate management system; and surface water management system. 2.8 Project logistics The key project logistics are: Landfill Footprint and Life Span The application will request approval for landfilling activities within the area illustrated on the Site Page 5 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 Plan presented as Figure 4. The Landfill is expected to have a life span of greater than 50 years, depending on the input rate of waste to the facility. Waste types The application will request approval to accept the following materials into the facility: For disposal: municipal solid waste; non-hazardous industrial and oilfield solid waste; and other waste which meets the disposal requirements for disposal at a Class II landfill. For treatment: treatable hydrocarbon contaminated soil; and other waste not described above, upon authorization of Alberta Environment. Projected Employment and Preference for Local Sourcing The project is expected to result in the creation of 30 direct and indirect full time positions, plus the possibility of additional part-time and/or contract positions. 3.0 Baseline Assessments Assessments will be completed to establish environmental baseline conditions, which can be compared with data collected during the operation and post-closure period of the Landfill to determine the extent of the effects (if any) of the Landfill on the local receiving environment. The following baseline assessments will be undertaken: groundwater conditions. This assessment will include sampling and testing of landowner water wells within 5.0 km of the Landfill (as listed in the AENV database and Page 6 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 other water well databases, where these wells still exist, and with the authorization of the owner of the well). hydrogeologic setting. The geologic and hydrogeologic setting of the land within the proposed landfill area will be established by completing groundwater monitor wells at 200 m spacings over the entire footprint of the subject site. Select locations will have nested groundwater monitor wells installed to determine the vertical component of groundwater flow. The geologic setting of the site will be investigated to a depth of at least 35 m below the expected base of the waste. Water level measurements, a survey of the elevations of the groundwater wells and hydraulic conductivity response testing will be completed to allow for the determination of groundwater flow directions and rate of groundwater movement. A detailed hydrogeologic section of the application will include: a description of the topography, surface drainage patterns, geology, hydrogeology, existing and surrounding land use within 1 km of the proposed site; a drawing showing the proposed site in relation to: adjacent development and infrastructure; natural and constructed physical features such as streams, rivers, water bodies, canals and drainage controls; domestic, municipal and other licensed water well locations within 5 km of the proposed site; and municipal wellhead protection zones; a detailed site plan showing; surface topography; and locations and surface elevation of all boreholes and monitoring wells; the profile and depths of the topsoil and subsoil; detailed borehole records showing the geologic and hydrologic conditions encountered and depth of all major stratigraphic features; cross-sections showing: an interpretation of the geologic stratigraphy; Page 7 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 directions and rates of groundwater flow, and hydraulic conductivities of the geologic strata that influences or control groundwater movement; a detailed text interpretation of the hydrologic and hydrogeologic conditions on a regional and local scale; and if applicable, a recommendation for landfill development including: the area suitable of landfilling; and the landfill design performance requirements based on the hydrologic and hydrogeologic conditions. surface water conditions. This assessment will include provision for sampling and testing of surface water bodies (including dugouts) within 1.6 km of the Landfill. The assessment will include the following: sampling of dugouts (as noted visually on a 2003 air photo and where they still exist) within 2.5 km (1.5 miles) of the site; sampling of natural water bodies (where they are not dry). In addition, surface water flow patterns and surface water users within a 5 km radius of the site will be identified. soil conditions. This assessment will be based on the following approach: a soil survey will be conducted within the planned development area at a Survey Intensity Level (SIL1) utilizing a grid spacing of approximately 150 m between inspection points (equivalent to 1 inspection per 2.25 ha); and a soil survey will be conducted within the future development area at a Survey Intensity Level (SIL2) utilizing a grid spacing of approximately 300 m between inspection points (equivalent to 1 inspection per 9 ha). vegetation conditions. This assessment will be based on a characterization of predisturbance vegetation, to achieve the following objectives: allow sensitive vegetation communities and plants (e.g. rare plants) to be identified and mitigation measures adopted to reduce project impacts; determine appropriate vegetation species for reclamation; ascertain whether the area supports non-native or invasive plant species; and Page 8 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 develop appropriate weed management plans (in accordance with the Alberta Weed Control Act). The presence of rare plants and rare plant communities will be determined by searching the Alberta Natural Heritage Information Centre (ANHIC) provincial database for existing records. The technical report will also include a discussion of: the distribution and proportion of vegetation types (i.e., grassland, shrubland, forest, agricultural, etc.); a list of observed species; a list of rare or sensitive plants or vegetation communities (if any); and a list of non-native or invasive weed species (if any). birds and wildlife. This assessment will comprise a screening level review so that existing wildlife, wildlife habitats and wildlife-related issues (e.g. presence of critical habitats and/or wildlife species of concern) can be documented. This assessment will include a review of published data, identification of any species of special concern and potential wildlife issues, and an inspection of the site. traffic conditions. This assessment will be based on the following approach: establishment of pre-development conditions based on existing traffic reports, available traffic counts, existing roadway geometry, traffic control devices and growth rates; development of background traffic growth projections at commencement of Landfill operation and for a 20-year horizon; estimation of the traffic that will be generated by the proposed development, and distribution of this traffic to the adjacent road network; and evaluation of the impacts of the Landfill-generated traffic on the intersection of Highway 63 and proposed access road into the site for the following traffic conditions. The assessment would also include signal warrant, lane warrant and illumination warrant analyses in accordance with applicable guidelines, plus a capacity analysis and interpretation. noise conditions. This assessment will be based on the following approach: baseline monitoring; Page 9 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 construction of a noise model to predict sound impacts; noise assessment modelling; comparison of model results to assessment criteria; identification of mitigation measures (if any); noise monitoring at a landfill of similar character (size, equipment, topography, etc.) provided that an appropriate site is identified. historical resources overview and historical resources impact assessment. These tasks will include the preparation of a detailed Historical Resources Overview (HRO). The HRO permits the identification of the key historical resource issues that may affect the project, and includes the following: the identification of the historical resource nature of the region, both in terms of currently known historical resources and historical resource locations yet to be identified; and the provision of recommendations regarding the need for, and nature of, an Historical Resources Impact Assessment. The HRO key activity comprises a review of records of previously identified historical resource locations, to determine whether an historical resource site is located within or immediately adjacent to the proposed development area. If recommended by the HRO, an Historical Resources Impact Assessment (HRIA) would be initiated. This would result in the identification of the nature and condition of currently known historical resources in relation to the development area, as well as providing an opportunity to locate previously undiscovered historical resources that may exist within the development zone and may be potentially subject to development impacts. line of sight conditions. The current sight lines in the vicinity of the proposed development will be characterized, and a variety of landfill configurations will be modelled to determine how neighbours will be impacted visually. Buffer areas will be developed and planted to minimize or remove visual impacts. Page 10 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 4.0 Proposed Concepts 4.1 Location relative to existing features The regulatory setback distances that would control the placement of waste on the property are summarized in the following table. Reference legislation Constraint Alberta Public Health Act No person shall locate a landfill so that an area where waste is or Nuisance and General may be disposed of is located within 450 metres of a water well. Sanitation Regulation 243/2003 Section 14(1) Alberta Municipal A subdivision authority shall not approve an application for Government Act subdivision, and a development authority shall not issue a permit, Subdivision and for the purposes of developing a landfill, hazardous waste Development Regulation management facility or storage site unless 43/2002 Section 13(4) (a) the working area of a landfill is situated at least 450 metres, (b) the disposal area of a landfill is situated at least 300 metres, (c) the working or disposal area of a hazardous waste management facility is situated at least 450 metres, and (d) the working area of a storage site is situated at least 300 metres from the property line of a school, hospital, food establishment or residence or building site proposed for a school, hospital, food establishment or residence. Alberta Public Highways The erection or placement of a development within Development Act (a) 300 metres of a controlled highway, or Highway Development (b) 800 metres from the centre point of an intersection of a Control Regulation 242/90 controlled highway and another highway or other public roadway, Section 2 without a permit is prohibited. Page 11 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 Reference legislation Constraint Transport Canada Aircraft zoning regulations are enacted to prohibit the use of land Publication (TP) 1247 outside airport property boundaries where such land uses are Land Use in the Vicinity of hazardous to aircraft operations. Provisions must be made for Airports, Section 3.2 prohibiting the location of garbage dumps, food waste landfill sites ... within 8km of an aerodrome reference point. The regulatory authorizations held under the Alberta Water Resources Act, Water Act and Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act within approximately 2 miles of the proposed Landfill boundary are summarized in the following table. Document Details Holder Legislation 00027183-00-00 Regner, WR, 24430 Arnold Regner Water Resources Act 00027184-00-00 Regner, WR, 24430 Arnold Regner Water Resources Act 00162762-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Bernie Regner Water Act Regner Bernie - F24430 00194436-00-00 Newbrook / Stock / Regner Bernie Regner Water Act Bernie - F24430 00022229-00-00 County of Thorhild, WR, County of Thorhild No. 7 Water Resources Act 51464 00166303-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Cramer Farms Water Act Cramer Farms 00027183-00-00 Regner, WR, 24430 Martha Regner Water Resources Act 00027184-00-00 Regner, WR, 24430 Martha Regner Water Resources Act 00163034-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Gory Nendze Water Act Nendze 00152288-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Raymond Nendze Water Act Nendze Raymond 00224543-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Raymond Nendze Water Act Nendze Raymond 00196218-00-00 Newbrook / Stock / Ilke Herrmann Water Act Page 12 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 Document Details Holder Legislation Herrmann 00196218-00-00 Newbrook / Stock / Ronald Herrmann Water Act Herrmann 00161414-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Wendell Stauffer Water Act Stauffer Wendell F00161414 00080864-00-00 Newbrook / Flood Control / County of Thorhild No. 7 Water Act County Of Thorhild No. 7 F51528 00160229-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Floyd & Cheryl Felun Water Act Floyd & Cheryl Fedun F00160229 00207235-00-00 Newbrook Class II Land Miles McKee & Enhancement Act Treatment Of SCH 00032262-00-00 Herrmann, WR, 19029 Environmental Protection Ilke Herrmann 00165092-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Regan & Kim Herrmann Water Resources Act Water Act Herrmann 00027951-00-00 Herrmann, WR, 23467 Ilke Herrmann 00165041-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Ronald & Regan & Ilke Herrmann Water Resources Act Water Act Herrmann 00166292-00-00 Abee / Registration / Tony Tony & Jolanda Panich Water Act & Jolanda Panich 00162783-00-00 Abee / Registration / Thomas Parsons Water Act Jim Panich Water Act Ronald Cardy Water Act Parsons Thomas F00162783 00162134-00-00 Abee / Registration / Panich Jim 00154236-00-00 Abee / Registration / Cardy Ronald F00154236 Page 13 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 Document Details Holder 00163825-00-00 Abee / Registration / Legislation Wilbert Koistinen Water Act Wilbert Koistinen Water Resources Act Koistinen Wilbert A 00025218-00-00 Koistinen, WR, 26065 00146061-00-00 Newbrook / Registration / Richard Kirk Water Act Kirk Richard - F00146061 00137316-01-00 Newbrook / WMF / Municipal Landfill Thorhild Regional Waste Environmental Protection Management Services & Enhancement Act Commission The licences held for wells by the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board within approximately 2 miles of the proposed Landfill boundary are summarized in the following table. License Status Location Well name 153371 Dry and abandoned 03-31-061-20W4 Conoco Newbrook 3-31-61-20 40173 Dry and abandoned 04-29-061-20W4 Berk et al Newbrook 4-29-61-20 44768 Dry and abandoned 06-25-061-21W4 Mikas Amoco Abee 6-25-61-21 147021 Abandoned gas well 06-28-061-20W4 ACL Newbrook 6-28-61-20 147021 Gas well 06-28-061-20W4 ACL Newbrook 6-28-61-20 149950 Abandoned gas well 06-29-061-20W4 ACL Newbrook 6-29-61-20 219444 Abandoned gas well 07-07-061-20W4 Big Sky Hollow 7-7-61-20 219444 Gas well 07-07-061-20W4 Big Sky Hollow 7-7-61-20 219444 Abandoned gas well 07-07-061-20W4 Big Sky Hollow 7-7-61-20 43220 Dry and abandoned 07-14-061-21W4 Mikas Abee 7-14-61-21 329444 Gas well 07-17-061-20W4 Kelso Energy Sifton Newbr 7-17-61-20 59390 Abandoned gas well 07-20-061-20W4 PEOC Newbr 7-20-61-20 59390 Abandoned gas well 07-20-061-20W4 PEOC Newbr 7-20-61-20 62215 Abandoned gas well 11-16-061-20W4 Devon Newbr 11-16-61-20 148200 Dry and abandoned 11-19-061-20W4 Conoco Newbrook 11-19-61-20 Page 14 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 License Status Location Well name 322973 Gas well 11-30-061-20W4 Geocan Newbr 11-30-61-20 355256 Standing/potential/c 11-16-061-20W4 Sifton et al Newbrk 12-16-61-20 152170 Suspended gas well 12-32-061-20W4 ACL Newbrook 12-32-61-20 152170 Gas well 12-32-061-20W4 ACL Newbrook 12-32-61-20 170514 Dry and abandoned 14-18-061-20W4 Conoco Newbrook 14-18-61-20 340148 Gas well 15-07-061-20W4 TKE et al Hollow 15-7-61-20 152489 Abandoned gas well 06-30-061-20W4 Conoco Newbrook 6-30cy-61-20 4.2 Configuration The disposal footprint and infrastructure proposed for the Landfill are shown on Figure 4. 4.3 Land ownership and control The land on which the Landfill will be developed will be owned by WMCC. 4.4 Landfill services The hours of operation are anticipated to be 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM from Monday to Saturday with some variance for specific waste streams. Part of the WMCC proposal includes working with the Commission to convert existing landfills within the County to transfer stations so as not to significantly alter existing traffic flows. 4.5 Landfill landform The final surface of the Landfill will be developed on the basis of the following principles: final Landfill slopes will be between 5 and 30 percent and will utilize steady continuous grades to promote the drainage of surface water; and capping of the Landfill will occur concurrently with the development of new landfill cells to reduce infiltration of surface water into the waste. Page 15 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 4.6 Design and operational basis The Landfill will be developed progressively, on a schedule within which there will be excavation, filling and capping conducted on an ongoing basis. Topsoil and subsoil will be salvaged separately during the construction of the cells, and will be stockpiled for use in progressive reclamation of the site. Stockpile locations will be selected so as to minimize multiple handling of the materials, and will include un-used areas of the municipal landfill footprint if appropriate. Salvaged topsoil and subsoil will be used during reclamation of the Landfill. Care will be taken to ensure conservation of the salvaged soil stockpiles. Salvaged topsoil and subsoil stockpiles will not be commingled. 4.7 Containment system (lining and leachate management) The containment system for the Landfill will include lining and leachate collection and removal systems on the base and side-slopes of the cells to control the migration of leachate from the Landfill. The lining system will consist of a composite liner comprising a geomembrane liner directly overlying a 0.6m thick compacted clay liner. A leachate management system will be installed to allow for the collection and removal of any liquid that percolates through the waste mass. The base of the Landfill will be designed to slope towards one or more sumps at the perimeter of the cells so that the leachate can be extracted from the Landfill as required. Any accumulation of leachate in the leachate collection system, which exceeds a specified depth above the liner, will be removed. 4.8 Liquid management Liquid management provisions within the Landfill will include: run-on control systems, which will manage surface water flows draining towards the developed portions of the Landfill from undisturbed areas; run-off control systems, which will manage surface water flows draining from the completed and capped portions of the Landfill; and leachate control systems, which will manage liquids which percolate through waste and Page 16 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 are collected above the base containment system, and contact water which has been in contact with waste and may have become contaminated with dissolved or suspended materials from the waste pile. Berms and ditches/culverts along the perimeter of the Landfill will prevent surface water run-on entering the landfill cell from the surrounding area. This surface water run-on will be diverted from each landfill cell around the developed portion of the site to natural drainage patterns as practicable. Run-off from the active areas of the landfill will be directed to a surface water storage pond for on-site use, or for controlled release to natural overland flow system following confirmation that the water meets specified quality objectives. Leachate generated within the cells will be contained on-site. Based on leachate quality the leachate will either be used on-site, treated on-site, or removed and treated or disposed off-site. 4.9 Landfill gas management Landfill gas management provisions will include an active gas management system to either capture and destroy, or use the gas to produce energy. 4.10 Capping structure A final cap will be constructed above the waste once final elevations are achieved, in progression with the Landfill activities and operation. The capping structure will be developed within the detailed design of the Landfill, and will generally comprise the following components: a barrier layer, comprising compacted site soil or a geomembrane, and intended to control the infiltration of moisture into the waste; and a surface layer, comprising organic material capable of supporting vegetation in a sustainable configuration. The cap will be designed to perform the following functions: promote the shedding of rainfall and snow-melt from the Landfill; Page 17 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 protect against physical exposure of the waste; and protect against erosion through the establishment of a vegetated layer. Comprehensive details of the proposed capping materials and thicknesses will be included in the application for Approval. 5.0 Environmental Monitoring Plan Environmental monitoring programs will be developed for the Landfill, and will comprise the following elements: groundwater monitoring program; leachate monitoring program; landfill gas monitoring program; and surface water monitoring program. The environmental monitoring plans will be developed based on the following approach: to establish baseline and ongoing background conditions; and to detect landfill derived effects on those conditions (if any). 5.1 Groundwater monitoring program A permanent system for monitoring groundwater levels and groundwater quality will be installed and developed at the site prior to initiating disposal operations. Wells will be situated both upgradient and down-gradient of the landfill development area to assess both baseline groundwater quality and potential impacts of the landfill on groundwater quality, respectively, within the uppermost water-bearing formation. The Application for Approval will include a detailed groundwater monitoring plan, which will define analytical parameters, the compliance boundary, monitoring frequencies, and a contingency and response plan. Page 18 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 5.2 Leachate monitoring program The leachate monitoring program will include periodic leachate quality monitoring and leachate head monitoring. The details pertaining to the monitoring frequencies, the analytical parameters, and the contingency and response plan will be included in the Application for Approval. 5.3 Surface water monitoring program The surface water monitoring program will include monitoring of area surface water. The Application for Approval will provide details with regard to the locations for sampling, the analytical parameters, the sampling frequency and a contingency and response plan. The surface water management system will be regularly inspected for any signs of deterioration or damage. Substandard conditions will be noted during inspections and repaired as required. 5.4 Landfill gas monitoring The wastes which will be accepted at the Landfill may produce landfill gas. This gas will be monitored and managed to maintain safe conditions in and around the fill area. A Landfill Gas Monitoring Plan will be included in the Application for Approval and will include monitoring locations, parameters and frequencies as well as contingency triggers and response plans. 5.5 Maintenance and inspection Landfill maintenance and inspections will be completed on a periodic basis. The details pertaining to these activities will be included in the Application for Approval. 5.6 Potential impacts and mitigative measures The potential impacts and mitigative measures that are reasonably foreseeable during the current planning and design stage of the Landfill are identified below and will be addressed in detail as part of Application: Page 19 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 groundwater impacts; surface water impacts; dust; odour; noise; litter; wildlife; and soil and land use. 6.0 Public Consultation WMCC wishes to ensure stakeholders and the public are engaged, involved and have an opportunity to review and comment on proposals for the planning, design, operation and end land use of the Landfill. The company has consequently designed a public involvement process and program to meet these objectives. The program is based around the following components: written notification of the project to County residents; public Open Houses; public Store Front events; project web site; a toll-free project telephone line; and a project newsletter. In addition, WMCC staff have been and will continue to be available to answer questions and provide information on an as-requested basis. It is expected that three Open Houses, two series of Store Fronts, and two newsletters will be released before the Application for Approval is submitted. The results of the public involvement program will be used to support the decisions of WMCC to identify appropriate plans, designs and the use of development and construction techniques that will meet long-term requirements for legal, environmental, economic and socially responsible operations at the Landfill. Page 20 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 6.1 Characteristics of public involvement program design and implementation The public involvement process and program will follow methods that allow people to identify issues, interests and concerns related to the site potential location, plans and operation that may affect them. A WMCC Public Involvement Guide (June 2006) has been prepared, and will provide a strategy and framework for the WMCC project team and their consultants. The methods will allow participants to conveniently participate and to understand the following: the company’s interest and focus in establishing a new landfill site in the proposed location; the nature and requirements of a regulatory application that will apply and the regulatory review and decision process; the request for public involvement and the role that public involvement will play in decision making; how the record of data provided by the public will be kept and reported, particularly to those who actively participated; how results will be used in both decision making by WMCC in the development of the application and in the regulatory review and decision process; and the process and program is designed to be flexible so that any new or changing requirements for public involvement can be incorporated. 6.2 Public involvement methods and schedule The following public involvement methods and schedule are in place: public Open Houses – these will be held at halls in the local community to provide people the opportunity speak face-to-face with company representatives on issues of concern and/or interest (e.g. water quality, air quality, noise, traffic, types of waste, future plans, neighbour relations, financial and other benefits which can accrue to the community). Interests, needs and questions will be collected in conversation and noted so they can be addressed in the project application to Alberta Environment; Page 21 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 Store Front opportunities – a store front allows people to drop in and speak informally about the project proposal. Located at an easily accessible and well known location, store fronts will alternate between venues within the community Company representatives will be there and provide people with access to information about WMCC, the project proposal and opportunities for involvement. People will be encouraged to identify their issues and needs and provide comments on the public involvement process and the project; one-on-one contact with project decision makers – WMCC project representatives will be available for direct contact should people wish it. They will be available to provide presentations to groups, have individual conversations with people who wish to learn more about the project or provide their comments on the project proposal; newsletters – newsletters will be prepared throughout the project assessment and application process. They will be used to report results of the public involvement process, including the issues, needs and questions people provided along with the company’s responses. Project contact information will be provided to allow people to make convenient, direct contact with key company staff to obtain information or ask questions; and project website – this website, www.thorhildproject.ca, will provide project updates, uploads, opportunities for public comment and feedback collection. In addition to the above, WMCC has committed to developing a Neighbourhood Advisory Committee that will be operational prior to opening of the Landfill. The following outline schedule is established for public consultation activities by end 2006: three Open Houses (Newbrook, Thorhild, Radway); two series of Store Front events (Newbrook and Thorhild); and two newsletters. Page 22 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 7.0 Financial Security Financial security requirements for the closure and post-closure of an approved landfill are contained in the Alberta Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act and Regulations. Section 84(1) of this Act provides the following requirements: “… an applicant for or a holder of an approval, a registration, a remediation certificate, a certificate of qualification or a certificate of variance shall provide financial or other security and carry insurance in respect of the activity or thing to which the approval, registration, remediation certificate, certificate of qualification or certificate of variance relates.” The basis of the estimate will be taken to be a ‘default’ on the part of the Approval holder, such that the security would represent the activities and costs associated with instantaneous closure of the Landfill at the time of Approval-holder default. Details including a spreadsheet basis of calculation will be provided with the Application. 8.0 Proposed Schedule Item Target dates Alberta Environment response to disclosure January 2007 Filing of the application June 2007 Alberta Environment issue of draft Approval Fall 2007 Page 23 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory disclosure document November 2006 9.0 Closure We trust this document will meet your needs at this time. If you have any questions, or if there is any additional information we can provide, please contact the undersigned at your convenience. Yours truly Adelantar Consulting Pete Marshall Principal Page 24 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory Disclosure document November 2006 Figures Page 25 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory Disclosure document November 2006 Figure 1: Site location plan (regional) Page 26 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory Disclosure document November 2006 Figure 2: Site location plan (local) Page 27 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory Disclosure document November 2006 Figure 3: Location of residences relative to the site Page 28 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc Dale Ozdoba, WMCC Thorhild Landfill, Regulatory Disclosure document November 2006 Figure 4: Site Plan Page 29 of 24 \\G4xserver\projects\2006\Adelantar 2006\WMCC\Project X\Reports\Disclosure Document\Thorhild discl final_ai.doc