How Honeygo Landfill’s Updated Plans Tackle Odor Issues

Honeygo Run Landfill Announces Major Upgrades to Curb Odor Issues.The Honeygo Run Reclamation Center is implementing significant new measures to combat persistent odor problems. Baltimore County Councilman David Marks confirmed the upgrades after a recent site tour. The changes target hydrogen sulfide gas, a primary source of the smells that have concerned nearby residents.Republic Services, the landfill operator, is directly involved in the new initiative. This marks a continued effort to address community complaints that Councilman Marks has prioritized during his time in office.

New Gas and Leachate Systems Target Root Causes

The landfill will install two new gas laterals across a section known as Cell 8. These pipes will connect to the existing gas collection system in October. This action will place a vacuum on the cell, directly preventing hydrogen sulfide gas from migrating off-site.A new, more resilient leachate tank will also replace an older model. The new tank features Vitrium fused glass panels designed to withstand corrosive hydrogen sulfide. Republic Services has also installed a more efficient jet mixer inside the tank to ensure leachate is fully mixed with treatment chemicals, a past failure point for odors.

Landfill’s Future Includes Eventual Closure and Park Plans

Beyond immediate fixes, Republic Services is employing a new treatment chemical during leachate discharge. Sodium nitrate is now injected, which reduces hydrogen sulfide concentrations generated by microbes. This treatment benefits the entire connected sewer line, not just the local landfill area.According to Republic Services, the Honeygo Run Reclamation Center is projected to run out of airspace and close in 2031. This date remains fluid based on incoming waste volume. In late 2030, the company will work with the Maryland Department of the Environment to formulate a formal post-closure care plan, which includes a proposal to convert the site into a public park.

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The proactive steps at Honeygo Run landfill represent a significant commitment to resolving long-standing environmental and community concerns. These upgrades, coupled with a clear vision for the site’s future as a public space, aim to turn a neighborhood nuisance into a community asset.

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What is causing the smells at the Honeygo Run landfill?

The primary cause is hydrogen sulfide gas. It comes from decomposing waste in the landfill cells and from inadequately treated leachate, which is liquid that has passed through the trash.

How will the new gas laterals help with the odor?

The new laterals act like a vacuum on Cell 8. They will collect the hydrogen sulfide gas before it can escape into the air and transport it to the control system for treatment.

When is the Honeygo Run landfill expected to close?

The current closure date is projected for 2031. This is not a fixed date and may change depending on how much waste the facility receives between now and then.

What happens to the landfill after it closes?

A post-closure plan will be developed with state regulators. The current proposal is to convert the closed landfill into a public park for community use.

Who is responsible for the site after closure?

Republic Services will remain responsible during the post-closure care period. This includes managing site leachate, gas, stormwater, and other environmental protections as determined by the state.