• On April 19, 2018, leachate and groundwater PFAS samples were collected at the Richfield Landfill.
  • A nearby clay source was identified for additional cover over areas of the landfill to prevent further contaminant leaks.
  • In Feb. 2020, EGLE identified funding within Renew Michigan for the preventative repairs to the Richfield Landfill.

LANSING, Mich., Mar. 2, 2020, — State Rep. Sheryl Kennedy (D-Davison) along with a representative of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) today announced securing $1.1 million in funding for repairs to Richfield Landfill. Though cells within the landfill were found to be structurally sound, one leachate PFAS sample and two groundwater PFAS samples were collected at the site in 2018.

“Contaminant leaks, whether large or small, are a threat to the health of our community and our environment,” said Rep. Kennedy. “When harmful chemicals were first found in our groundwater, we knew that this problem could quickly become a disaster. Working with local government and coordinating with our state agencies were vital to finding this solution and securing this funding. These repairs will help to prevent further leaks, keeping our groundwater safe and ensuring the health and well-being of our local families.”

After significant effort by Rep. Kennedy, Davison Township Supervisor Tim Elkins and Richfield Township Supervisor Joseph Madore, nearby clay was identified as a potential source of additional cover for areas of the landfill in order to prevent potential future leaks of harmful contaminants.  Working with EGLE, funding was identified within Renew Michigan for the preventative repairs to the landfill

“When I took the office of Supervisor, one of my goals was to find a community that could use the estimated 350,000 cubic yards of dirt and clay,” said Timothy W. Elkins, Davison Township Supervisor. “I’m glad to say that by working with local and state officials we will be able to move the majority of it this year. This will be a saving to Davison Township taxpayers of an estimated $400,000-$500,000.”

“For many years we have been hosting meetings regarding the Richfield Landfill to discuss the issues at the site,” said Joseph M. Madore, Richfield Township Supervisor. “I am pleased that Rep. Sheryl Kennedy has continued this process and I want to thank her and her staff for their role in securing the much-needed funding for the site at the State level. The proposed project will enhance the stability of the landfill and greatly reduce the amount of collected leachate that will be required to be hauled off site for processing at the Genesee County treatment plant which will save tens of thousands of dollars over time. I look forward to the project completion and the continued cooperation with the Department and our Legislative representatives.”

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