Archuleta County Landfill Repair

Challenge

The Archuleta County Landfill is an important asset for the rural communities it serves. Permitted to receive approximately 2 million cubic yards of municipal waste throughout its lifetime, it offsets transfer costs, supports competition in the region, provides recycling services, and supports other waste diversion and beneficial use practices. However, the landfill was facing serious issues that threatened its functionality and viability.

It was found during an investigation that there was a leachate buildup in the cell and damage to the base liner which posed significant environmental risks. These issues compromised the landfill's compliance with the standards set by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Urgent recommendations were needed to deal with the large volumes of waste that had already been placed over and adjacent to the areas needing repair, without disrupting the landfill's ongoing operations.

Solution

In 2020, Archuleta County entrusted SEH with this critical project involving extensive remediation of the landfill liner and leachate collection system. SEH's role encompassed a range of engineering and construction services aimed at resolving existing issues and preparing the landfill for future construction and enhanced community service. The team designed and implemented modifications to the leachate collection system and landfill liner, addressing the failures discovered by the investigation.

The project also included strategic planning, daily operational assistance, and construction quality assurance, ensuring the landfill met all regulatory requirements from the CDPHE. By providing Archuleta County with strategic advisory services to support day-to-day operations and preliminary evaluations for landfill expansion, SEH helped establish long-term viability and compliance.

The remediation efforts not only rectified the immediate environmental concerns but also fortified the landfill against future challenges, extending its capacity and operational lifespan. Archuleta County has since retained SEH as the sole source engineer for ongoing solid waste consulting services, underscoring the success and trust built through this project. The landfill continues to be a crucial asset for the communities it serves, supporting local waste management, recycling, and environmental sustainability initiatives. This project exemplifies the commitment to delivering environmentally sound and community-focused solutions that solve immediate problems and contribute to sustainable futures.