The Simon Law Firm’s Environmental Attorneys Comment on Rock River Landfills

NEWS RELEASE

Jan. 25, 2010

The Simon Law Firm’s Environmental Attorneys Comment on Rock River Landfills

Odors from garbage dumps persist despite efforts to burn off excess methane gas

ST. LOUIS—Strong odors emanating from two landfills in Illinois’ Rock River Valley have triggered complaints and prompted visits from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the Rockford Register Star reported last week.

According to the newspaper, 34 phone complaints and 30 written complaints about the foul odors emanating from the Winnebago Landfill, in southern Winnebago County, and the Veolia Orchard Hills Landfill, in northern Ogle County, have been lodged with the IEPA.

A spokesman for the Winnebago Landfill told the newspaper that the owner had installed additional methane gas collection wells and flares to burn off excess gas produced by landfill waste.

Environmental lawyer Todd Hageman explains, “Methane itself is an odorless landfill gas. However, when landfill gasses, including methane, are released noxious gases such as hydrogen sulfide, mercaptan and other sulfurs may simultaneously be released into the ambient air around the landfill.”

Hydrogen sulfide smells like rotten eggs. As many of the residents who commented on the Rockford Register Star story noted, the odor can be so pungent that it forces residents to remain inside with their windows closed or even awaken residents in the middle of the night.

Hydrogen sulfide exposure may also trigger such physical symptoms as burning eyes, sore throat, nosebleeds and respiratory problems.

In a recent letter to the editor of the community newspaper The Rock River Times, one resident urged the public to continue reporting the odors to the IEPA by calling 815-987-7760 or filling out the Citizen Pollution Complaint Form.

The Simon Law Firm, based in St. Louis, represents people who have lost the use and enjoyment of their property or been hurt as a result of environmental and landfill waste and odors. The firm has represented more than 400 individual clients in claims arising from the negligent operation of landfills. For more information, contact Todd Hageman by calling 877-767-3108 or e-mailing THageman@simonlawpc.com.

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CONTACT:

The Simon Law Firm
Todd Hageman
877-767-3108
THageman@simonlawpc.com
www.simonlawpc.com