Our  Environment

Groundwater Monitoring

The facility has an extensive groundwater monitoring program, with approximately 50 groundwater monitoring wells. The facility submits the sampling results to regulatory agencies on a quarterly basis. The groundwater monitoring system samples 13 marginal water-bearing zones that are connected to the surface within the facility boundaries. All of these water-bearing zones pass beneath and dip away from the Kettleman Hills Facility in a southwesterly direction (away from Kettleman City).
Groundwater Fact Sheet

Air monitoring

The facility has developed an ambient air monitoring program to ensure that the air in and around the Landfill meets stringent environmental standards. Air quality samples are collected every 12 days from four strategically located monitoring stations.
Air Monitoring Fact Sheet

Gas Monitoring

Methane gas, produced by landfilled trash, is managed through a gas monitoring program that includes 16 multi-level probes located along the perimeter of the landfill.

Stormwater Collection

Although there is only 6 inches of average rainfall a year in Kings County, an approved stormwater management plan collects any rainwater runoff to prevent off-site contamination. We conserve this water by channeling it to retention basins and then reusing it for dust control.

Litter and Dust Prevention

Most litter is caught by the fencing that surrounds the landfills. In addition, crews regularly patrol the perimeter of the facility to catch any additional litter (including litter from outside sources). Landfills are covered with soil or tarps at night. Dust on unpaved interior roads is controlled with the application of water and a dust suppression agent.