Operations Overview

Achieving an operational IWMF on the site will require many processes and components that must work together to support a functional facility. The following are some of the key onsite operations proposed for the IWMF.

IWMF Site Operations

The proposed IWMF will include a Class II, non-hazardous landfill involving the progressive development of the site over multiple years while striving to maintain agricultural lands where possible. In addition, the IWMF offers ancillary uses on site that are intended to divert waste from landfill disposal and redirect materials for further recycling and/or re-use. For example, ancillary uses at this IWMF may include a recycling transfer station.

The transfer station for ancillary materials would include the collection of agricultural plastics, metal, wood, and concrete. Agricultural plastics would be collected on site and transferred to a stewardship organization for processing. WCC intends to collect wood and process it into chips for use. Other waste stream materials such as metals and concrete would also be collected and could be transferred off-site to a third-party for processing or reuse.

Closure & Post-Closure Requirements

Closure and post-closure requirements involve the completion of landfill capping and the management of the facility for at least 25 years following final closure.

Facility Monitoring & Reporting

The landfill will be required to monitor groundwater, surface water, leachate and sub-surface landfill gas conditions, and to submit the monitoring results to Alberta Environment every year.

Impacts & Mitigation

WCC acknowledges that the IWMF has the potential to create offsite impacts as part of its operation (e.g. litter, odours, dust, noise, weeds, birds). The project will be subject to requirements under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) for nuisance management. A detailed plan to manage nuisance and wildlife will be prepared as part of the EPEA approval application. WCC will work with Kneehill County at the development permit stage regarding aspects of management that may require additional provisions or controls.

Some of the mitigation techniques may include:

  • Water truck or street sweeper for dust mitigation

  • Landscape berms/screening

  • Mobile fencing

  • Stationary fencing

  • Visual screening

  • Falconry and predatory bird services

Financial Security

As required by legislation, the EPEA approval will require WCC to review and revise the cost estimate for closure and post-closure of the landfill on an annual basis. WCC must post financial security in favour of the Crown prior to provincial approval being issued.

Environmental Protection & Enhancement Act Approval Renewals

Approvals under the EPEA are issued for a maximum of 10 years.  As each approval approaches expiry, a new application must be submitted to Alberta Environment to allow for consideration of facility performance in support of the approval renewal request.  The approval renewal process will include the same kinds of opportunities for public input as the initial application.