Sharing information from Senator Tim Shallenburger

My office has been working alongside Representative Helwig and KDHE to get some answers on the Jordan Landfill. This afternoon, we received the following update from HDHE: 

“On Friday, KDHE was contacted about a subsurface smoldering event in the Construction and Demolition portion of the landfill. The smoldering was actually discovered during work to begin installation of a filter/venting system intended to mitigate odors. Smoldering events produce smoke and can cause increased odors and distress to neighbors. The following response actions have been taken:

Jordon Disposal began immediately to excavate and extinguish the smoldering.

Jordan Disposal notified KDHE that hydrogen sulfide levels in the excavation pit were 10 parts per million. A one-time reading at this level exceeds our standard but is not a health risk over a short, limited period.

On Tuesday (yesterday), KDHE staff were on site and recommended additional air sampling be performed.

Meteorological reports showed the wind would change, to blow from the north toward more residents, and this has now happened.

KDHE therefore submitted a Request for Assistance to EPA to perform on-site air monitoring. This air monitoring will allow KDHE to keep residents informed and take precautionary measures if there is any risk to human health.”

KDHE also produced some FAQ regarding the landfill and can be found here: https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/2391/Galena-Construction-Demolition-Landfill-