News

Actions

Officials investigating methane gas migration at Kentwood landfill

Posted at 9:16 AM, Aug 23, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-23 18:42:18-04

KENTWOOD, Mich. (AP) — Officials have started investigating ways to resolve the migration of methane gas from a closed landfill in Kentwood.

Public Works officials in Kent County said Monday in a release that tests at the landfill in Kentwood found methane underground at various depths to the west of the site.

Methane naturally forms in landfills. County health officials say the gas dissipates quickly when exposed to air, but can be flammable in closed spaces.

Public Works Director Dar Baas says an engineering consultant will be hired.

Kentwood city officials also will install additional gas detection equipment within buildings near the landfill and portable testing equipment is being used to test air quality.

A public question and answer session will be held Aug. 31 at Kentwood City Hall.