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Officials Investigating Methane Gas Migration At Landfill

KENTWOOD, Mich. (AP) -- Officials have started investigating ways to resolve the migration of methane gas from a closed landfill near Grand Rapids in western Michigan.

Public Works officials in Kent County say Monday in a release that tests at the landfill in Kentwood found methane underground at various depths to the west of the site.

Methane naturally forms in landfills. County health officials say the gas dissipates quickly when exposed to air, but can be flammable in closed spaces.

Public Works Director Dar Baas says an engineering consultant will be hired.

Kentwood city officials also will install additional gas detection equipment within buildings near the landfill and portable testing equipment is being used to test air quality.

A public question and answer session will be held Aug. 31 at Kentwood City Hall.

 

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