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Odour Existing Conditions Report
Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Landfill
Expansion Environmental Assessment
GFL Environmental Inc.
Moose Creek, Ontario
May 16, 2018
Prepared by:
Tetra Tech
1205 Rue Ampère, Suite 310 Boucherville, QC J4B 7M6
Supporting Document 1-2
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Odour Existing Conditions Report
Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Landfill Expansion Environmental Assessment
Acknowledgements
This Report has been Prepared by:
Tetra Tech 1205 Ampère, Suite 310 Boucherville, QC
This report has been prepared on behalf of GFL Environmental Inc. (GFL). This Report may not be used by any other person or entity without the express written permission of GFL and Tetra Tech. Any use of this report by a third party, or any reliance on decisions made based on it, are the responsibility of such third parties. GFL and Tetra Tech accept no responsibility for damages, if any, suffered by any third party as a result of decisions made or actions taken based on this report.
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................... 1 1
EOWHF Expansion Study Area ........................................................................................................... 2 2
Methods ............................................................................................................................................... 5 3
3.1 Available Secondary Source Information Collection and Review ............................................. 6
3.2 Processes Undertaken .............................................................................................................. 7
3.3 Description of Field Studies ....................................................................................................... 8
Composting Facility Odour Emission Characterization Program ................................. 8 3.3.1
Landfill Gas Monitoring................................................................................................. 8 3.3.2
Description of the Existing Odour Environment .................................................................................... 8 4
4.1 Odour Based Standards and Guidelines ................................................................................... 8
4.2 Contaminants of Concern........................................................................................................ 10
Hydrogen Sulphide ..................................................................................................... 10 4.2.1
Combustible Gas ........................................................................................................ 10 4.2.2
Odour ......................................................................................................................... 10 4.2.3
Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS) .................................................................................... 10 4.2.4
Other Odorous Contaminants of Concern.................................................................. 10 4.2.5
4.3 Composting Facility Biofilter Exhaust Testing ......................................................................... 11
4.4 Landfill Gas Emissions ............................................................................................................ 11
4.5 Modelled Emissions ................................................................................................................ 12
Operating Conditions.................................................................................................. 15 4.5.1
Emission Estimation Methodologies .......................................................................... 15 4.5.2
Data Quality ................................................................................................................ 15 4.5.3
Dispersion Model ........................................................................................................ 16 4.5.4
Meteorological Data ................................................................................................... 16 4.5.5
Terrain Data ............................................................................................................... 16 4.5.6
Source Data ............................................................................................................... 16 4.5.7
Averaging Time and Conversions .............................................................................. 16 4.5.8
Dispersion Modelling Results ..................................................................................... 16 4.5.9
4.6 Odour Complaints Received ................................................................................................... 18
Summary Odour Existing Conditions ................................................................................................ 19 5
Conclusions ....................................................................................................................................... 20 6
References ........................................................................................................................................ 20 7
Glossary of Terms .............................................................................................................................. 21 8
Acronyms and Units .......................................................................................................................... 23 9
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List of Tables
Table 1: Summary of Odour Based Standards and Guidelines .............................................................. 9
Table 2: Biofilter Odour Test Data ......................................................................................................... 11
Table 3: Landfill Gas Monitoring Data ................................................................................................... 11
Table 4: Summary of Modelled Odour Emission Sources ..................................................................... 13
Table 5: Modelled Odour Emission Results .......................................................................................... 17
Table 6: Odour Complaints Summary ................................................................................................... 18
Table 7: Odour Impacts Summary ......................................................................................................... 19
List of Figures
Figure 1: Study Area ................................................................................................................................. 4
Figure 2: Sensitive Receptor Locations .................................................................................................... 5
List of Appendices
A Terms of Reference Appendix B – Evaluation Criteria, Indicators and Data Sources
B Site Plan
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Executive Summary
This report outlines the existing odour conditions relevant to the proposed landfill expansion of the GFL
Environmental Inc. (formerly Lafleche Environmental Inc.) Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility
(EOWHF) located at 17125 Lafleche Road, Moose Creek, Ontario.
The study area identified as relevant to the landfill expansion has been set based on the dispersion
modelling requirements specified under Ontario Regulation 419/05 (O.Reg. 419/05). This study area (see
Section 2) includes a rectangular area with sides approximately 5 kilometres (km) from the facility
property line and includes the most affected nearby residential neighbours (i.e., sensitive receptors), as
well as portions of Highway 417 (Trans-Canada) and a number of populated areas including Casselman
and Moose Creek.
The relevant odour-based air quality standards for the contaminants of concern likely or known to be
emitted from the EOWHF have been identified (see Section 4.1) including provincial Ambient Air Quality
Criteria (AAQC), O.Reg. 419/05 Point of Impingement (POI) Standards and Guidelines, as well as the
conditions of the facility’s Certificates of Approval (CofA) and Environment Compliance Approvals (ECA).
The existing odour conditions within the study area around the EOWHF were assessed based on a
review of the available field study data and the subsequent advanced air dispersion modelling
assessments completed in 2018 for the EA Application and previously in support of previous ECA and C
of A applications for facility upgrades and expansions. The results of the air dispersion modelling studies
were then compared against the relevant odour based air quality standards to determine the predicted
compliance status. Information from odour complaints in the area received by the EOWHF or local
Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC) has also been included in the review
of local odour conditions.
Based on the available data, the predicted odour conditions within the study area are expected to meet
the relevant odour-based air quality standards for all contaminants of concern most of the time.
Exceedances of the 1 OU/m3 standard specified in the ECA are limited to 0.6% of the time with maximum
concentrations approaching 5 OU/m3. Odour complaint logs at the EOWHF appear to confirm this
finding. Between the beginning of 2014 and the end of 2015 a total of five (5) odour related complaints
were logged by either the MOECC or directly by the EOWHF, and an additional seven (7) complaints were
received during 2016. This is equivalent to a frequency of occurrence of less than 1.6% of the time,
conservatively assuming that the reported odour persisted for a period of 24 hours for each complaint
event. In actuality, the odour complaints have been highly transient, lasting for only limited periods of
time. Operational adjustments relating to timely placement of interim and final cover, early installation of
additional landfill gas extraction wells, minimization of the area of the landfill tipping face, and suspension
of some composting operation activities during wind shifts from the prevailing easterly direction, are
expected to mitigate off-site odour impacts.
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Introduction 1
This report identifies and describes the existing odour conditions associated with the landfill expansion of
the GFL Environmental Inc. (formerly Lafleche Environmental Inc.) Eastern Ontario Waste Handling
Facility (EOWHF) Environmental Assessment (EA) Study Area (see Section 2) consistent with the
approach and requirements included in the Terms of Reference (ToR).
The approved ToR included a preliminary description of the existing conditions within the area
surrounding the EOWHF, with the commitment that the description would be expanded upon in the EA. In
accordance with the approved ToR, investigative studies were carried out, as necessary, to generate a
more detailed description and understanding of the existing natural, cultural, socio-economic, and built
environments for use in the assessment and evaluation of the two alternative methods for the landfill
expansion during the EA.
Upon completion, existing conditions reports will be made available for review during the EA via the
project website, at the project office, and upon request, and will become either a reference or supporting
document to the submitted EA Study Report. The EA Study Report will be based on and reflect the
information contained within the report.
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EOWHF Expansion Study Area 2
The existing EOWHF is located on the western half of Lot 16 and Lots 17 and 18, Concession 10,
Township of North Stormont, United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry, near the intersection
of Highway 417 and Highway 138. The municipal street address for the facility is 17125 Lafleche Road,
Moose Creek, Ontario.
The EOWHF encompasses a site area of 189 hectares (see the Site Plan in Appendix B) which includes
the following waste management related activities and services:
66 hectare landfill site;
composting facility;
waste transfer and processing station;
waste water treatment facility;
small vehicle waste drop off;
landfill gas to energy facility;
Ontario Electronic Stewardship (OES) drop off;
Ontario Tire Stewardship (OTS) drop off; and
supporting facilities (office, vehicle maintenance).
As documented in the approved ToR, two landfill expansion options for the existing EOWHF have been
identified:
developing the areas of Stage 3B and Stage 4 as originally planned in the 1998 EA; and
developing Stage 3B as contemplated in the original approval (1998 EA) and the development of
a modified configuration of Stage 4.
As per the approved ToR, the study areas include the existing site as well as potentially affected
surrounding areas.
The Study Area specifically relevant to local odour impacts encompasses an area extending
approximately 5km in every direction from the facility property line as per the requirements of
Ontario Regulation 419/05 (O.Reg.419/05).
The Study Area includes a number of populated communities in the area including Casselman
and Moose Creek. The remainder of the study area covers mostly agricultural lands as well as
portions of the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 417) which passes less than 1km directly north
of the facility.
The Study Area has been defined based on the requirements of O.Reg.419/05 which dictates the
assessment of local air quality and odour impacts from facilities. O.Reg.419/05 requires that
facility emissions be assessed based on air dispersion modelling across an area that includes
modelled receptors located at the following intervals:
a) 20 metres, in an area that is bounded by a rectangle, where every point on the boundary of
the rectangle is at least 200 metres from every source of contaminant;
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b) 50 metres, in an area that surrounds the area described in (a) and that is bounded by a
rectangle, where every point on the rectangle is at least 300 metres from the area described
in (a) (i.e., 50m spacing from 200m out to 500m from every source);
c) 100 metres, in an area that surrounds the area described in (b) and that is bounded by a
rectangle, where every point on the rectangle is at least 800 metres from the area described
in (a) (i.e., 100m spacing from 500m out to 1,000m from every source);
d) 200 metres, in an area that surrounds the area described in (c) and that is bounded by a
rectangle, where every point on the rectangle is at least 1,800 metres from the area
described in (a) (i.e., 200m spacing from 1,000m out to 2,000m from every source);
e) 500 metres, in an area that surrounds the area described in (d) and that is bounded by a
rectangle, where every point on the rectangle is at least 4,800 metres from the area
described in (a) (i.e., 500m spacing from 2,000m out to 5,000m from every source).
This receptor grid, or one comparable to it, was employed in the dispersion modelling assessments of
odorous emissions from the facility (see Section 3.1 below for the list of relevant dispersion modelling
assessments completed for the facility) to determine the extent of facility impacts on the surrounding area
and is illustrated in Figure 1 below.
82 Discrete Cartesian receptor locations were also included in the dispersion modelling
assessments of odour impacts (O2E Inc. Environmental Consultants, February 2011, Odour
Impact Assessment; See Section 3.1 below for full reference) as being representative of the
sensitive receptor locations in the vicinity of the facility. When modelling odour emissions, a
sensitive receptor is defined as any location where normal human activities can reasonably be
expected to occur at times when there is potential for adverse effects from odorous releases from
the facility, as per O.Reg.419/05 including:
a) Private residences or public facilities where people sleep (e.g., single and multiple unit
dwellings, nursing homes, hospitals, trailer parks, camping grounds)
b) Institutional facilities (e.g., schools, churches, community centers, daycare centers,
recreational facilities)
c) Outdoor public recreational areas (e.g., parks, walking trails, play grounds, picnic areas)
d) Other public areas where continuous human activities occur (e.g., office buildings,
Commercial plazas)
This differs from typical air quality modelling for hazardous contaminants where sensitive receptors are
defined as a location where a sensitive population is likely to reside, or inhabit for any period of time – i.e.
the very young, the very old and those who may be ill (e.g., daycares, schools, nursing homes and
hospitals).
These receptors were employed in the dispersion modelling assessment of odour emissions to determine
the magnitude and extent of the facilities odour impact on the surrounding area and specific Sensitive
Receptors. The nearest and the most affected Sensitive Receptors are identified in Figure 2 below.
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Figure 1: Study Area
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Figure 2: Sensitive Receptor Locations
The 82 individual receptor locations identified for the assessments include any location where normal
human activities can reasonably be expected to occur at times when there is potential for adverse effects
due to atmospheric releases from the facility as noted above.
Methods 3
This Odour Existing Conditions Report was developed based on the evaluation criteria, indicators and
data sources included in the approved ToR, which were developed in consultation with government
agencies and other stakeholders (refer to Appendix A).
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3.1 Available Secondary Source Information Collection and Review
Available information was collected from secondary sources and reviewed to determine existing Odour
conditions within the study area. The following sources of information were collected and reviewed:
Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC), Ambient Air Quality Criteria
(AAQC), Standards Development Branch, April 2012, PIBS # 6570e01.
Provincial, effects based AAQC for contaminants of concern developed by the MOECC
for use in assessing the general air quality in an area. These criteria include limits on
contaminants that have the potential to create nuisance impacts such as odour.
MOECC, Summary of Standards and Guidelines to support Ontario Regulation 419/05 - Air
Pollution – Local Air Quality (including Schedule 6 of O. Reg. 419/05 on Upper Risk Thresholds),
Standards Development Branch, April 2012, PIBS # 6569e01.
Provincial, effects based Point of Impingement (POI) standards and guidelines for
contaminants of concern developed by the MOECC for use in assessing the impact of a
single facility on the local air quality. These criteria include limits on contaminants that
have the potential to create nuisance impacts such as odour.
MOECC, Ontario Regulation 232/98 (O.Reg.232/98): MOE Landfill Standards, May 1998.
Provincial standards for landfill gas collection system operations in Ontario.
MOECC, Ontario Regulation 419/05 (O.Reg.419/05): Air Pollution – Local Air Quality, December
22, 2009.
Provincial regulation governing the assessment and permitting of air pollution generated
by facilities within the province.
MOECC, Air Dispersion Modelling Guideline for Ontario (ADMGO), Version 2.0, March 2009,
PIBs # 5165e02
Guidance for demonstrating compliance with the air dispersion modelling requirements
set out in O.Reg.419/05.
MOECC, Procedure for Preparing and Emission Inventory and Dispersion Modelling Report
(ESDM Guide), Version 3.0, March 2009; Version 4.0, February 2017.
Guidance for preparing an Emission Summary and Dispersion Modelling (ESDM) report
as per the requirements set out in O.Reg.419/05.
MOECC, Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) Air, Number 5427-7EVP89, Issued: October
29th, 2008
Environmental Approval for air emissions generated from the Lafleche Environmental Inc.
EOWHF aerobic composting facility.
Lafleche Environmental Inc. Odour Impact Assessment Report, February 11, 2011, O2E Inc.
Environmental Consultants (O2E Ref No. 10-082)
Odour dispersion modelling assessment prepared to demonstrate the facility’s
compliance with condition No. 2 of Environmental Compliance Approval No. 5427-
7EVP89, Issued: October 29th, 2008.
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Envirosolve, Odour Emission Characterization Program, Lafleche Landfill – Eastern Ontario
Waste Handling Facility, November 10th, 2010, Report No. E10004.
Odour sampling and analysis program carried out as per Method ON-6 of the Ontario
Source Testing Code, in compliance with the source testing requirements of MOECC
Environmental Compliance Approval (Air) No. 5427-7EVP89 (issued October 29, 2008)
which permits the operation of the aerobic composting facility and associated emissions
control equipment.
MOECC, Ontario Source Testing Code, June 2010, PIBs #1310e03
Guidance document which provides a set of guidelines and methodologies for the
measurement of airborne emissions from stationary sources for the purposes of
demonstrating compliance with the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) and its
Regulations.
United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), AP-42 Compilation of Air Emission
Factors, Section 2.4 Municipal Solid Waste Landfills, November 1998
Guidance document describing the typical emission sources and emission estimation
methodologies employed for municipal solid waste landfills including but not limited to
landfill gas emissions.
Tetra Tech, GFL Environmental Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Emission Summary and
Dispersion Modelling Report, May 10th, 2018
Updated dispersion modelling assessment of odour emissions from existing and
proposed new sources from the facility.
MOE, Interim Guide to Estimate and Assess Landfill Air Impacts - Air Resources Branch, October
1992
Guideline for landfill gas odour concentrations.
3.2 Processes Undertaken
The following outlines the primary processes followed to determine existing Odour conditions:
1) Review the study area (identified in Section 2) and identify the relevant sensitive receptors.
2) Review of the Odour Impact Assessment Report and ESDM reports developed including the 2018
Tetra Tech ESDM Update and those prepared in support of the applications for Environmental
Compliance Approvals (ECA) for the expansion of the composting facility capacity (ECA No.
9112-9DMTGX) and the amendment to the Landfill Gas To Energy Facility (ECA No. 1110-
7ZWT7B) to identify the odorous contaminants of concern emitted from the facility and relevant to
the local odour conditions.
3) Review the provincial odour related standards and summarize those relevant to the identified
contaminants of concern.
4) Review and summarize the results of the odour sampling campaign of the primary odour exhaust
source (composting facility biofilter).
5) Review and summarize the available Landfill Gas Monitoring data collected at ten (10) shallow
gas probe locations along the perimeter of the site.
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6) Summarize the results of the dispersion modelling assessments carried out and described in the
facility Odour Impact Assessment and ESDM reports identified above.
7) Review and summarize the historical odour complaints logged by the facility over the last two (2)
years to confirm / refute the findings of the dispersion modelling assessment
8) Summarize the available monitoring and modelling results for the area and provide a comparison
against the relevant odour based standards and guidelines.
3.3 Description of Field Studies
The following outlines the field studies undertaken to characterize existing Odour conditions:
Composting Facility Odour Emission Characterization Program 3.3.1
In October of 2010, Envirosolve conducted a source sampling campaign of the odour emissions from the
composting facility’s Biofilter exhausts. Samples of the air released from the composting facility’s
Biofilter’s three (3) exhaust chambers were collected and analyzed to determine the odour emission rates
for each exhaust. Triplicate samples were collected in Tedlar bags at each exhaust and analyzed by
olfactometer within 24 hours of testing. Odour emission rates (ou/s-m3) were calculated using the
olfactometer measured odour threshold values (OTV’s) and the corresponding Biofilter volumetric flow
rate measured at the time of sample collection. This odour emission rate data was then used as inputs to
the dispersion modelling assessment documented in the Lafleche Environmental Inc. – Odour Impact
Assessment Report (February 2011) prepared by E2O Inc.
Landfill Gas Monitoring 3.3.2
Landfill gas concentrations in the subsurface were collected at ten (10) locations around the perimeter of
the facility (Identified as GP-1 through GP-10 in the Site Plan in Appendix B) during the months of
January, February, March and August. Combustible gas concentrations were measured using calibrated
portable gas probes capable of measuring ppm level concentrations. The results or this testing were then
compared against the MOECC’s O.Reg.232/98 guideline for methane concentrations in the subsurface at
the property line of the landfill of < 2.5 % by volume (equivalent to < 25,000 ppmv).
Description of the Existing Odour Environment 4
4.1 Odour Based Standards and Guidelines
The MOECC has developed effects based air quality standards, including those specifically related to
nuisance effects such as odours for the purposes of assessing the general ambient air quality in an area,
(Ambient Air Quality Criteria – AAQC), as well as assessing the potential impacts from an individual
facility through the Point of Impingement (POI) standards and guidelines. AAQC are intended to be used
when assessing the local air quality in a region, while POI standards and guidelines are intended to be
used when assessing the specific impact of an individual facility on the local air quality. To date the
MOECC has published 58 odour specific AAQC standards and 59 odour specific POI standards and, or
guidelines for compounds of concern.
The MOECC regulates landfill gas emissions under O.Reg.232/98, which includes requirements for the
mandatory collection of landfill gas and air emissions controls to prevent its release to the environment. In
addition to the major constituents of landfill gas (methane and carbon dioxide), small quantities of other
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contaminants of concern including hydrogen sulphide, mercaptans and non-methane organic compounds
can also be generated. These trace components can create nuisance odours and affect local air quality.
Where specifically required by the MOECC (i.e. as a condition of an ECA) facilities must demonstrate
compliance with an Odour Performance Limit of 1.0 odour unit per cubic metre (OU/m3) over a 10 minute
averaging period, where an odour unit (OU) is defined as the point where 50% of the population can detect
the smell or odour. Condition 2 of the ECA - Air (No. 5427-7EVP89) for the aerobic composting facility at
the EOWHF specifies the facility meet this Odour Performance Limit for facility operations at the most
impacted Sensitive Receptor.
Table 1 below presents the AAQC’s and POI’s relevant to the facility for comparison with the available
monitoring and modelling data for the study area. Where more than one (1) standard exists for a
contaminant for a particulate averaging period, the most stringent standard available is to be applied.
Table 1: Summary of Odour Based Standards and Guidelines
Contaminant Averaging Period MOECC AAQC
(µg/m3)
MOECC POI
(µg/m3)
ECA Air (OU/m
3)
Hydrogen Sulphide 10 minutes 13 13
Odour 10 minutes - - 1.0
Total Reduced Sulphur 10 minutes 13 13
1,2-Dichloropropane (propylene dichloride)
24 hour 2,400
Chlorobenzene 1 hour 3,500
Dimethyl sulfide 10 minutes 30
Ethyl Mercaptan (ethanethiol) 24 hour 13
Methyl mercaptan 10 minutes 13
Xylenes 10 minutes 3,000
Toluene 24 hour 2000
Ethyl ether 10 minutes 950
Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) 1 hour 19,000
Carbon disulphide 24 hour 330
Ethyl acetate 1 hour 19,000
Tetrahydrofuran 24 hour 93,000
Methyl isobutyl ketone 24 hour 1,200
Ethyl benzene 10 minutes 1,900
Decane, n- 1 hour 60,000
In addition to these standards and guidelines, O. Reg. 232/98 includes maximum acceptable
concentrations for combustible gas at landfill sites. The combustible gases in landfill gas are typically
limited to methane. Small amounts of other compounds such as hydrogen sulphide, mercaptans and non-
methane organic compounds may also be present, and these have the potential to create odour impacts,
while the methane component of landfill gas is of particular concern as it poses an explosion hazard if it
becomes trapped in enclosed spaces at concentrations ranging from 5 to 15 percent by volume. Ontario
Regulation 232/98 addresses this concern by requiring an assessment of the potential for subsurface
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migration and by setting concentration limits for methane. The concentration limits specified in the
Regulation are:
less than 2.5 percent methane gas in the subsurface at the property boundary;
less than 1.0 percent methane in an on-site building, or its foundation; and
less than 0.05 percent methane (i.e., not present) in a building, or its foundation, which is located
off-site.
4.2 Contaminants of Concern
The following sections provide a description of the odorous contaminants of concern that are known to be
emitted from the facility, that have the potential to impact on the local air quality.
Hydrogen Sulphide 4.2.1
Hydrogen sulphide is a colourless gas with a characteristic rotten egg smell which is generated by the
partial combustion, or decomposition of sulphur rich materials. At the trace concentrations expected from
the decomposition of material within the landfill and composting facility, the primary concern is the
potential to cause odour impacts.
Combustible Gas 4.2.2
Landfill gas consists of a mixture of approximately 50% Methane and 50% Carbon dioxide with trace
quantities of odorous contaminants of concern including hydrogen sulphide and other reduced sulphur
compounds. Landfill gas is continuously emitted from landfills as the gas is capable of escaping through
the void spaces between soil particles, however the implementation of an effective landfill gas collection
and air emission control system on site will typically reduce the volume of escaping landfill gas to
negligible levels.
Odour 4.2.3
In Ontario odour is regulated under Section 14 of the Environmental Protection Act which prohibits
companies from discharging anything to the natural environment that may cause and adverse impact,
including loss of enjoyment of normal use of a property. Any smell that would typically be deemed as
unpleasant or offensive can constitute an odour.
Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS) 4.2.4
Total reduced sulphur refers to a group of reduced sulphur compounds including dimethyl disulphide,
dimethyl sulphide, hydrogen sulphide and mercaptans. TRS is typically not released in sufficient
concentrations to create an adverse health effect, but is widely associated with nuisance odours as the
compounds included in the group all have a characteristic, strong rotten egg smell.
Other Odorous Contaminants of Concern 4.2.5
The remaining 15 odorous contaminants of concern include all contaminants identified as constituents of
landfill gas which have either MOECC AAQC’s or POI standards relevant to odour. These compounds
include volatile organic compounds (e.g., xylene, toluene) as well as sulphur containing compounds (e.g.,
mercaptans). Each of these substances is known to contribute to odorous impacts in elevated
concentrations.
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4.3 Composting Facility Biofilter Exhaust Testing
Odour source testing was carried out on each of the three (3) exhaust chambers of the Composting
facility Biofilter on October 12th, 2010. Sampling and analysis were conducted according to Method ON-6:
Determination of Odour Emissions from Stationary Sources (MOECC. Ontario Source Testing Code.
2010). The results of the testing are presented below in Table 2.
Table 2: Biofilter Odour Test Data
Biofilter Exhaust Chamber
Net OTV Test #1
Net OTV Test #1
Net OTV Test #1
Net OTV Geometric Mean
Odour Emission Rate (OU/s-m
3)
Receiving 16 29 27 23 307
Bunker B 27 23 21 24 311
Bunker A 174 145 159 159 2,097
Average 905
The Odour Emission Rates presented above were calculated based on the maximum flow rate for each
of the Biofilter fans of 13.2 m3/s. This emission rate data was subsequently employed in the dispersion
modelling assessment of odour impacts in the surrounding area described in Section 4.5 below.
4.4 Landfill Gas Emissions
The concentration of combustible landfill gas, consisting almost exclusively of methane, present in the
subsurface, at the perimeter of the landfill provides an indication of the general level of combustible gas
emissions from the facility and the effectiveness of the landfill gas collection system on site (See Section
3.3.2 above for information on the field study). Table 3 below provides the concentrations of Combustible
gas measured in the subsurface at ten (10) locations around the perimeter of the facility.
Table 3: Landfill Gas Monitoring Data
Shallow Gas Probe
Jan.10, 2014
(ppm)
Feb.4, 2014
(ppm)
Mar.21, 2014
(ppm)
Aug.29, 2014
(ppm)
Jan.12, 2015
(ppm)
Feb.4, 2015
(ppm)
Mar.9, 2015
(ppm)
Aug.12, 2015
(ppm)
Average (ppm)
GP-1 120 145 75 60 195 90 90 60 104
GP-2R 200 180 Not Found
30 300 180 Not Found
30 153
GP-3 80 40 20 10 Not Found
Not Found
Not Found
10 32
GP-4 0 40 40 0 50 70 20 0 28
GP-5R 20 110 110 30 70 90 10 30 59
GP-6 200 150 150 100 250 155 300 100 176
GP-7 30 110 110 110 200 90 110 190 119
GP-8 80 Not Found
225 70 Not Available
Not Available
Not Available
Not Available
125
GP-9 175 150 180 50 225 100 180 25 136
GP-10 200 140 240 60 230 200 240 50 170
Average 111 118 128 52 190 122 136 55 111
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Based on the available data, the average concentration of combustible gas in the subsurface around the
perimeter of the facility is approximately 0.4% (111 ppm) of the MOECC Reg.232/98 standard of 25,000
ppm. This is indicative of a well-functioning landfill gas collection system with minimal emissions of landfill
gas to the environment.
4.5 Modelled Emissions
In the absence of empirical ambient air quality monitoring data specific to odour, odour from the facility
has been modelled based on the estimated odour concentrations associated with the facility operations
and the odorous contaminants of concern expected to be emitted from the facility. These contaminants
have been assessed based on air dispersion modelling studies using the US EPA’s advanced Gaussian
Plume dispersion model AERMOD as per the MOECC’s Air Dispersion Modelling Guideline for Ontario
(ADMGO. 2009). These dispersion modelling studies were conducted in compliance with the conditions of
the Composting facility Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA) No. 5427-7EVP89, as part of the
facility’s ECA applications and documented in the Odour Impact Assessment (E2O. 2010) and ESDM
reports (Tetra Tech. 2018; O2E. 2012; Comcor. 2011). These modelling reports were prepared as per the
MOECC’s Procedure for Preparing and Emission Inventory and Dispersion Modelling Report (MOECC.
2009, 2017).
Table 4 below provides a summary of the information on the modelled sources of odorous emissions from
the facility used in the preparation of the various dispersion modelling assessments.
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Table 4: Summary of Modelled Odour Emission Sources
Source Description Modelled Source Type
Modelled Source Data
Pollutant Emission
Rate
(g/s)
Pollutant Emission
Rate
(g/s) Diam (m)
Flow Rate
(m3/s)
Temp (oC)
Height* (m AG) / (m AR)
Gensets (4)
Landfill Gas Gensets
Stacks (4) 0.25 N/A 509 5.61 / 3.02
Dimethyl Sulfide 1.3E-04 Toluene 4.0E-03
Ethyl Mercaptan 3.7E-05 Ethyl ether 3.8E-06
Hydrogen Sulfide 3.2E-04 Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) 2.5E-05
Methyl Mercaptan 3.2E-05 Ethyl acetate 1.0E-05
Carbon Disulphide 8.4E-06 Tetrahydrofuran 6.3E-05
Total Reduced Sulphur 1.1E-3 Methyl isobutyl ketone 1.5E-05
1,2-Dichloropropane (propylene dichloride)
5.4E-06 Ethyl benzene 3.5E-05
Chlorobenzene 7.4E-06 Decane, n- 3.5E-05
Xylenes 3.4E-04
Flare Enclosed
Landfill Gas Flare
Stack 3.05 N/A 871 12.2 / -
Dimethyl Sulfide 4.8E-04 Toluene 1.5E-02
Ethyl Mercaptan 1.4E-04 Ethyl ether 1.4E-05
Hydrogen Sulfide 1.2E-03 Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) 9.4E-05
Methyl Mercaptan 1.2E-04 Ethyl acetate 3.7E-05
Carbon Disulphide 3.1E-05 Tetrahydrofuran 2.3E-04
Total Reduced Sulphur 2.0E-3 Methyl isobutyl ketone 5.7E-05
1,2-Dichloropropane (propylene dichloride)
2.0E-05 Ethyl benzene 1.3E-04
Chlorobenzene 2.8E-05 Decane, n- 1.3E-04
Xylenes 1.3E-03
Biofilter Composting
facility biofiter exhausts (3)
Area (of total exhaust)
N/A 39.6 Amb. - Odour
1360 (OU/s)
Total Reduced Sulphur 4.94E-4
Landfill Landfill Gas
releases
Area (LFG
Collection Systems 1, 2 & 3)
N/A Passive Amb -
Dimethyl Sulfide 4.2E-03 Xylenes 1.1E-02
Ethyl Mercaptan 1.2E-03 Toluene 1.3E-01
Hydrogen Sulfide 1.1E-02 Ethyl ether 1.3E-04
Methyl Mercaptan 1.0E-03 Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) 8.4E-04
Carbon Disulphide 2.8E-04 Ethyl acetate 3.3E-04
Total Reduced Sulphur 1.7E-2 Tetrahydrofuran 2.1E-03
Odour 2097
(OU/s) Methyl isobutyl ketone 5.0E-04
1,2-Dichloropropane (propylene dichloride)
1.8E-04 Ethyl benzene 1.2E-03
Chlorobenzene 2.5E-04 Decane, n- 1.2E-03
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Source Description Modelled Source Type
Modelled Source Data
Pollutant Emission
Rate
(g/s)
Pollutant Emission
Rate
(g/s) Diam (m)
Flow Rate
(m3/s)
Temp (oC)
Height* (m AG) / (m AR)
Tipping Face
Landfill Active Tipping Face
Area N/A Passive Amb
Dimethyl Sulfide 3.6E-04 Xylenes 9.6E-04
Ethyl Mercaptan 1.1E-04 Toluene 1.1E-02
Hydrogen Sulfide 9.1E-04 Ethyl ether 1.1E-05
Methyl Mercaptan 9.0E-05 Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) 7.2E-05
Carbon Disulphide 2.4E-05 Ethyl acetate 2.9E-05
Total Reduced Sulphur 3.5E-06 Tetrahydrofuran 1.8E-04
Odour 180 (OU/s) Methyl isobutyl ketone 4.3E-05
1,2-Dichloropropane (propylene dichloride)
1.5E-05 Ethyl benzene 9.9E-05
Chlorobenzene 2.1E-05 Decane, n- 1.0E-04
Leachate Leachate pond N/A – Negligible Source of Emissions**
Notes:
* Height listed as m above grade (m AG) and m above roof (m AR)
** Emissions of odorous compounds from the surfaces of the Leachate pond were considered in the 2012 ESDM update (E2O, 2012) but not
included in the modelling assessment as they were deemed to be negligible contributors to the overall odour impact from the facility.
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Operating Conditions 4.5.1
It is expected that the Genset, Biofilter, Landfill and Tipping Face based emission sources identified in
Table 4 above will operate up to 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 52 weeks per year. The Enclosed
Landfill Gas Flare stack is anticipated to operate as a standby landfill gas control combustion device and
the Landfilling operations are carried out between 7AM and 7PM on weekdays and between 8AM and
2PM on Saturdays. The facility is closed on Sundays.
The maximum operating conditions considered in the dispersion modelling assessment of the existing
conditions include the operation of four (4) reciprocating engine generators, the Enclosed Landfill Gas
Flare, the Biofilter, Landfill and Tipping Face emissions released / operating at maximum capacity for the
full 10 minute averaging period required to assess odour emissions.
Emission Estimation Methodologies 4.5.2
Emissions of odorous contaminants identified in Table 4 above were estimated base on a combination of
engineering estimates, published emission factors from Section 2.4 of the United States Environmental
Protection Agency’s (USEPA) AP-42 Compilation of Emission Factors, November 1998 and source
testing data from the Envirosolve, Odour Emission Characterization Program, Lafleche Landfill – Eastern
Ontario Waste Handling Facility, November 10th, 2010, Report No. E10004.
Emissions of odorous compounds from landfill gas including that combusted in the Genset and Flare
stack sources were estimated based on the US EPA AP-42 published emission factors and the laboratory
analysis of landfill gas samples attached in Appendix C.
Emissions of Odour from the Biofilter have been estimated based on the compliance source testing
conducted according to the Ministry’s guidelines and have been included above in Table 2 in Section 4.3.
Emissions of Odour from fugitive landfill gas emissions have been estimated based on the default Odour
intensity for landfill gas as per the MOE’s Interim Guideline (MOE 1992) and the gas generation rate
presented in the Conceptual Design Report of the Environmental Assessment application (Section 2.5.1).
Emissions of Total Reduced Sulphur from the Biofilter and Landfill sources have been estimated based
on engineering estimates from the facility’s original ESDM report submitted to the Ministry as part of the
facility’s initial air quality permit application, updated to include methyl mercaptans as well as hydrogen
sulphide and dimethyl sulphide as per the requirements of Section 1(2.4) of O.Reg. 419/05. The TRS
species concentration data from the manufacturer used to calculate the emission rate from the exhaust
flow rate are included in Appendix C.
Data Quality 4.5.3
The data quality rating of the emission estimates used in the dispersion modelling assessments of
odorous contaminants of concern are as follows:
Odorous compounds from landfill gas releases including residual from the combustion of landfill
gas in the Gensets and Flare emissions estimates are rated “E” quality by the US EPA. This is
equivalent to “Marginal” data quality according to the MOECC’s guidelines.
Odour emission estimates from the Biofilter facility are rated “Above Average” data quality.
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Odour emission estimates from landfill gas fugitive emissions are rated “Marginal” data quality.
Total Reduced Sulphur emission estimates from the Biofilter and Landfill operations have been
assigned an “Average” data quality rating.
Dispersion Model 4.5.4
The dispersion modelling assessments were completed using the US EPA’s AERMOD dispersion
modelling software to predict the ground level concentrations of airborne contaminants. Real world
meteorological and terrain data were employed using the AERMET and AERMAP software.
Meteorological Data 4.5.5
5‐years of hourly surface meteorological data, including wind speed, wind direction, temperature, cloud
cover and humidity from the nearest surface/airport station (Moose Creek Ontario) and Radiosonde,
Upper Air data for mixing layer depth information were obtained from the Ministry and processed with the
AEMET software to create a dataset that for use by AERMOD.
Terrain Data 4.5.6
Digital Elevation Model (DEM) terrain data was obtained from WebGIS data in the form of USGS CDED
15 minute (1:50K, ~23m accuracy) format. This DEM data was processed in conjunction with the facility
building and source layout and receptors in the AERMAP software to be used by the AERMOD software.
Source Data 4.5.7
The Genset and Flare stack emissions were modelled within AERMOD as Point Sources, while the
Biofilter and Landfill operations were modelled as Area Sources. The details of the emission point
characteristics are presented in the Tetra Tech 2018 ESDM report.
The effects of building downwash on the stack based emissions were considered and modelled using the
Building Profile Input Program (BPIP) processing software.
Averaging Time and Conversions 4.5.8
The dispersion modelling was completed using one (1) hour and twenty-four (24) hour averaging times.
As the odour related POI concentration limits are all based on ten (10) minute averaging periods, the one
(1) hour averaging time for each modelling result was converted to ten (10) minute averages using the
method described in O.Reg. 419/05, s. 17 and shown below:
𝑃𝑂𝐼10𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 𝑃𝑂𝐼1ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 × (𝑡1 ÷ 𝑡0)𝑛
Where: t1 = dispersion model averaging period (1hour)
t0 = desired averaging period (10min)
n = 0.28
Dispersion Modelling Results 4.5.9
The results of the dispersion modelling assessments, presented below in Table 5 are intended to be
indicative of the maximum off-site ground level odour impacts, based on the worst possible case
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operating scenario(s) at the facility. As such, these results are expected to provide a reasonably
conservative estimate of actual airborne concentrations within the modelled study area.
Table 5: Modelled Odour Emission Results
*Note: Odour results are for the nearest most effected receptor
Based on the above modelling results the maximum predicted ground level concentrations of specific
contaminants of concern other than odour from facility operations are expected to be within the relevant
air quality standards at the nearest, most impacted sensitive receptor (i.e. neighbouring residence
identified as location “A” in Figure 2) and throughout the rest of the study area under normal operating
conditions. The modelled results for the maximum predicted ground level composite odour
concentration in the study area include exceedances of the 1 OU, 10 minute average up to a maximum
modelled odour concentration at the nearest, most effected residential receptor of 5.37 OU/m3.
The frequency of occurrence of odour-related impacts at the nearest, most impacted sensitive receptor
(i.e., neighbouring residence identified as location “A” in Figure 2) based on the AERMOD dispersion
modelling results is expected to be approximately 0.6% of the time, during which time the receptors are
expected to experience odours that range from detectable (>1 OU) to what may be considered a
nuisance (>5 OU). The modelling results indicate that the EOWHF meets the relevant air quality
standards for all odour-based contaminants of concern approximately 99.4% of the time. The other
Sensitive Receptor locations identified in Section 2 above were also modelled and were found to have
lower concentrations of all odorous emissions.
It should be noted that the modelling results do not account for the contributions of other potential
sources of odour in and around the study area including agricultural activities like fertilizer applications
and the nearby mushroom farm within the study area. These sources have the potential to generate
significant odour emissions under adverse circumstances.
Contaminant of Concern CAS No.
Air Quality Standard (µg/m
3)
Source of Standard
Averaging Period (hours)
Maximum Ground Level Concentration
(µg/m3)
Percent of
Standard
Dimethyl sulfide 75-18-3 30 AAQC / POI 10 minute 1.7 6%
Ethyl Mercaptan (ethanethiol) 75-08-1 13 AAQC / POI 10 minute 0.053
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4.6 Odour Complaints Received
Between the beginning of 2014 and the end of 2015 a total of five (5) odour related complaints were
logged by either the MOECC or directly by the facility. An additional seven (7) complaints were received
during 2016. This is equivalent to a frequency of occurrence of less than 1.6% of the time (conservatively
assuming that the reported odour persisted for a period of 24 hours for each complaint event). Table 6
below provides a summary of these complaints.
Table 6: Odour Complaints Summary
Complaints have been received during both normal operations and while there were no facility operations
ongoing. The odour complaints have also been highly transient, lasting for only limited periods of time,
making it difficult to accurately discern the originating source based on the available data. It is worth
noting that the majority of complaints were related to odour impacts detected while travelling along area
roads, rather than on-site at residences or businesses.
The off-site odour impacts that have occurred are related to operational issues that can be addressed
through adjustments in operational practices, rather than the size of buffer areas, distances to off-site
receptors, or types of waste accepted at the landfill and associated facilities. Mitigative measures are
currently being contemplated to reduce and eliminate off-site odour impacts from the facility. These
include:
Adding cover material in areas where final cover has not yet been installed
Date and Time Location Facility Operations
June 17th, 2014 – 17:30
~ Intersection of Hwy 417 and Hwy 138
No operations; Facility was closed at 17:00
July 13th, 2014 – Late
morning to mid afternoon ~ Intersection of Hwy 417 and
Hwy 138 No operations; Facility was closed as it was a
Sunday
August 17th, 2014 –
Unspecified Time Residence on Sandringham
Road Normal operations
October 16th
, 2014 – Early morning prior to 11:20a.m.
MTO Weigh Scale on North Side of Hwy 417
Normal operations and Stage II landfill gas collection systems construction
July 10th, 2015 ~ 08:10
a.m. Residence on Sandringham
Road Normal operations
March 4th, 2016 11:01
a.m. Highway 417 at Hwy 138
Normal operations; ground leaf and yard waste moved from storage area to composting facility
on the afternoon of March 4th
August 9th, 2016 Lafleche Road
October 14th, 2016 9:00
a.m. & 6:00 p.m. Intersection of Hwy. 417 and
Hwy. 138 Normal operations
November 6th, 2016
Immediately north of landfill on Hwy 138
Landfill closed (Sunday)
November 8th, 2016 8:15
a.m.
Various (complaint from CLC that landfill gas odour impacts
increasing recently) Normal operations
November 9th, 2016 10:26
a.m. 5 km South of Site Normal operations
December 16th, 2016
11:54 a.m. Fournier, Casselman, St-Rose,
St-Isodore Normal operations
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Improved sealing of landfill gas at extraction gas wellheads
Expansion of the landfill gas collection system
Evaluation of adding blower capacity for the landfill gas collection system to increase the vacuum
applied to the collection system
reducing the area of the waste tipping face and of the active landfill area
restricting some aspects of composting operations when winds shift from the prevailing direction
The most recent odour complaints, seven (7) during 2016, appear to be associated with landfill gas
impacts, and can be expected to be effectively mitigated by improving or implementing measures related
to the first four elements listed above.
Summary Odour Existing Conditions 5
Odour within the study area has been assessed based on the odour related contaminants of concern
consistent with those emitted from the existing EOWHF based on a combination of field test data and
advanced air dispersion modelling. In general, odour within the study area is expected to meet the
relevant air quality standards (see Table 1) for all contaminants of concern.
The following Table 7 summarizes the worst case estimates for odour impacts at the most affected
receptors within the study area based on the worst case operating scenario at the EOWHF.
Table 7: Odour Impacts Summary
The frequency of odour complaints logged in the area over the past three years is consistent with the
modelled frequency of exceedance and indicates that there were minimal detectable odours during the
majority of this time. In most instances, occurrences of off-site odour impacts were of limited duration.
Contaminant of Concern CAS No.
Air Quality
Standard (µg/m
3)
Source of Standard
Averaging Period (hours)
Maximum Ground Level Concentration
(µg/m3)
Percent of
Standard
Dimethyl sulfide 75-18-3 30 AAQC / POI 10 minute 0.69 2%
Ethyl Mercaptan (ethanethiol) 75-08-1 13 AAQC / POI 10 minute 0.03
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Conclusions 6
Based on the available field data and subsequent advanced air dispersion modelling assessment results,
the odour impacts within the study area are expected to meet the relevant air quality standards for all
odour-based contaminants of concern for all but a minimal 0.6% of the time. The modelling results
indicate that the EOWHF meets the relevant air quality standards for all odour-based contaminants of
concern approximately 99.4% of the time. The infrequent occurrence of exceedances and complaints of
transient odours are expected to be related to operational issues that can be effectively mitigated by
adjusting operational practices.
References 7
BPR (BPR-Infrastructure Inc.). 2015. 2014 Annual Report, Site Development, Operations and Environmental Monitoring Report, Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility
Tetra Tech (Tetra Tech QI Inc.). 2016. 2015 Annual Report, Site Development, Operations and Environmental Monitoring Report, Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility
O2E (O2E Environmental Consultants Inc.). 2012. Lafleche Environmental Inc., 17125 Lafleche Road, Moose Creek, Ontario K0c 1w0, Emission Summary And Dispersion Modelling Report,
August 1st, 2012, O2E Ref. No. 12‐033
Comcor (Comcor Environmental Limited). 2011. Emission Summary And Dispersion Modelling Report, Laflèche Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility, Landfill Gas To Energy Facility, Moose Creek, Ontario, December 22
nd, 2011, Project No. 9-398
MOECC, SDB (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Standards Development Branch). 2012. Ambient Air Quality Criteria (AAQC), April 2012, PIBS # 6570e01.
MOECC, SDB (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Standards Development Branch). 2012. Summary of Standards and Guidelines to support Ontario Regulation 419/05 - Air Pollution – Local Air Quality (including Schedule 6 of O. Reg. 419/05 on Upper Risk Thresholds), April 2012, PIBS # 6569e01.
MOECC (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change). 1998. Ontario Regulation 232/98: Ministry of the Environment Landfill Standards, May 1998.
MOECC (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change). 2009. Ontario Regulation 419/05: Air Pollution – Local Air Quality, December 22, 2009.
MOECC (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change). 2009. Air Dispersion Modelling Guideline for Ontario, Version 2.0, March 2009, PIBs # 5165e02.
MOECC (Ontario Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change). 2009. Procedure for Preparing and Emission Inventory and Dispersion Modelling Report, Version 3.0, March 2009, PIBs # 3614e03
US EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency). 1998. AP-42 Compilation of Air Emission Factors, Section 2.4 Municipal Solid Waste Landfills, November 1998
Tetra Tech, GFL Environmental Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Emission Summary and Dispersion Modelling Report, May 10, 2018
MOE, Interim Guide to Estimate and Assess Landfill Air Impacts - Air Resources Branch, October 1992
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Glossary of Terms 8
Glossary of Terms
Term Definition
Approval Permission granted by an authorized individual or organization for an undertaking to proceed. This may be in the form of program approval, Environmental Compliance Approval or provisional Environmental Compliance Approval.
Environment As defined by the Environmental Assessment Act, environment means:
air, land or water;
plant and animal life, including human life;
the social, economic and cultural conditions that influence the life of humans or a community;
any building, structure, machine or other device or thing made by humans;
any solid, liquid, gas, odour, heat, sound, vibration or radiation resulting directly or indirectly from human activities; or
any part or combination of the foregoing and the interrelationships between any two or more of them (ecosystem approach).
Environmental Assessment (EA)
A systematic planning process that is conducted in accordance with applicable laws or regulations aimed at assessing the effects of a proposed undertaking on the environment.
Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA)
A licence or permit issued by the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change for the operation of a waste management site/facility.
Evaluation criteria Evaluation criteria are considerations or factors taken into account in assessing the advantages and disadvantages of various alternatives being considered.
Indicators Indicators are specific characteristics of the evaluation criteria that can be measured or determined in some way, as opposed to the actual criteria, which are fairly general.
Landfill site An approved engineered site/facility used for the final disposal of waste. Landfills are waste disposal sites where waste is spread in layers, compacted to the smallest practical volume, and typically covered by soil.
Mitigation Measures taken to reduce adverse impacts on the environment.
Proponent A person who:
carries out or proposes to carry out an undertaking; or
is the owner or person having charge, management or control of an undertaking.
Receptor The person, plant or wildlife species that may be affected due to exposure to a contaminant.
Stakeholder Any organization, governmental entity, or individual that has a stake in or may be impacted by a given approach to environmental regulation, pollution prevention, energy conservation, etc.
Terms of Reference A terms of reference is a document that sets out detailed requirements for the preparation of an Environmental Assessment.
Undertaking Is defined in the Environmental Assessment Act as follows:
An enterprise or activity or a proposal, plan or program in respect of an enterprise or activity by or on behalf of Her Majesty in right of Ontario, by a public body or public bodies or by a municipality or municipalities;
A major commercial or business enterprise or activity or a proposal, plan or program in respect of a major commercial or business enterprise or activity of a person or persons other than a person or persons referred to in clause (1) that is designated by
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Term Definition
the regulations; or
An enterprise or activity or a proposal, plan or program in respect of an enterprise or activity of a person or persons, other than a person or persons referred to in clause (a), if an agreement is entered into under section 3.0.1 in respect of the enterprise, activity, proposal, plan or program; ("enterprise").
Waste Refuse from places of human or animal habitation; unwanted materials left over from a manufacturing process.
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Acronyms and Units 9
List of Acronyms
Acronym Definition
AAQC Ambient Air Quality Criteria
ADMGO Air Dispersion Modelling Guide for Ontario
CEAA Canadian Environmental Assessment Act
ECA Environmental Compliance Approval (Precursor to ECA)
EA Environmental Assessment
EAA Environmental Assessment Act
EASR Environmental Assessment Study Report
ECA Environmental Compliance Approval
EOWHF Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility
EPA Environmental Protection Act
ESDM Emission Summary and Dispersion Modelling Report
MOECC (Ontario) Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change
OEAA Ontario Environmental Assessment Act
POI Point of Impingement
ToR Terms of Reference
US EPA United States Environmental Protection Agency
List of Units
Unit Definition
µm micrometre
cm centimetre
ha hectare
km kilometre
m metre
µg micrograms
g grams
MW megawatt
m³
cubic metres
ppm parts per million
tpy Tonnes per year
ou/s-m3 Odour emission rates
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Appendix A
Terms of Reference Appendix B – Evaluation Criteria, Indicators and
Data Sources
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Evaluation Criteria
Rationale Indicators Data Sources
Natural Environment
Environmental Component: Atmospheric Environment
Air quality Waste disposal site and associated operations can emit contaminants that can degrade air quality. Construction and operation activities at a waste disposal site can also lead to increased levels of particulates (dust) in the air.
Predicted off-site point of impingement air concentrations of indicator compounds
Number of off-site receptors potentially affected (residential properties, public facilities, businesses/farms, institutions)
Published meteorological and climate data Annual dust monitoring data Applicable MOECC guidelines and
technical standards Aerial photographic mapping and field
reconnaissance Off-site receptors confirmed on recent
mapping Available background ambient air data Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operation data Annual site specific noise monitoring data Manufacturer provided noise specifications Applicable MOE guidelines and technical
standards Aerial mapping and field reconnaissance to
confirm off-site receptors Land use zoning plans Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data Published meteorological and climate data Site odour related data Existing emissions summary and dispersion
modelling (ESDM) report Site odour complaint history Aerial mapping and field reconnaissance to
confirm off-site receptors Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data Applicable MOECC guidelines and
technical standards
Noise Construction and operation activities can result in increased noise levels associated with the waste disposal facility.
Predicted site-related noise levels (dBA)
Number of off-site receptors potentially affected (residential properties, public facilities, businesses/farms, institutions)
Odour The proposed expansion may result in changes in the degree and frequency of odours from the Facility.
Predicted off-site odour concentrations (µg/m3and odour units)
Number of off-site receptors potentially affected (residential properties, public facilities, businesses/farms, institutions)
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Evaluation Criteria
Rationale Indicators Data Sources
Environmental Component: Geology & Hydrogeology
Groundwater Quality
Contaminants associated with waste disposal sites have the potential to enter the groundwater and impact off-site groundwater
Predicted effects to groundwater quality at property boundaries and off-site
Existing hydrogeological and geotechnical studies
Water well records
Determination of water well users in the area
Annual site monitoring reports
Environment Canada Canadian Climate Normals
Leachate generation assessment
Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN)
Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data Existing hydrogeological and geotechnical
studies
Water well records
Determination of water well users in the area
Annual site monitoring reports
Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Groundwater Quantity
Physical works may disrupt natural groundwater flows
Predicted groundwater flow characteristics
Environmental Component: Surface Water Environment
Surface Water Quality
Contaminants associated with waste disposal sites have the
potential to seep or runoff into surface water
Predicted effects on surface water quality; onsite and off-site
Topographic maps Air photos Facility layout, drainage maps and figures On-site stormwater management system design for expanded landfill Annual monitoring reports Published water quality and flow
information from MOECC, Environment Canada and
local conservation authorities Site reconnaissance Provincial Water Quality Monitoring
Surface Water Quantity
Construction of physical works may disrupt natural surface drainage patterns and may alter runoff and peak flows. The presence of the expanded landfill may also affect base flow to surface water.
Change in drainage areas Predicted occurrence and degree of
off-site impacts
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Evaluation Criteria
Rationale Indicators Data Sources
Network Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Environmental Component: Ecological Environment
Terrestrial
Ecosystems
Continued or expanded operation of
the waste disposal facility may disturb the functioning of natural terrestrial habitats and vegetation, including rate, threatened or endangered species.
Predicted impact on vegetation communities
Predicted impact on wildlife habitat Predicted impact on vegetation and
wildlife including rare, threatened or endangered species.
Predicted changes in water quality Predicted impact on aquatic habitat Predicted impact on aquatic biota
including rare, threatened or endangered species
Existing information and associated agreement with MNR regarding on-site natural environment
Annual monitoring report data Published data sources and mapping Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Aquatic Ecosystems
Continued or expanded operation of the waste disposal facility may disturb the functioning of natural aquatic habitats and species, including rate, threatened or endangered species.
Socio-Economic Environment
Environmental Component: Economic
Economic effects on/benefits to local community
The continued operation of the landfill will provide economic benefits to the local community in the form of new employment opportunities. This may also increase employment in local firms
Employment at site (number and duration)
Opportunities to provide products or services
Census data for Township of North Stormont and Untied Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry
Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Effects on local
community
Waste disposal facilities can
potentially affect local residents in the vicinity of the site
Number of residents Predicted changes to use of
property
Aerial mapping and field reconnaissance Census information Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Visual Impact of Facility
The contours of the waste disposal facility may affect the visual appeal of a landscape.
Predicted changes in perceptions of landscapes and views.
Site grading plans Aerial mapping and field reconnaissance Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
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Odour Existing Conditions Report Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Landfill Expansion Environmental Assessment
A-4
Evaluation Criteria
Rationale Indicators Data Sources
Cultural Environment
Environmental Component: Social
Cultural and heritage resources
The use and enjoyment of cultural resources may be disturbed by the ongoing operation.
Cultural and heritage resources (built and landscapes) on-site and in vicinity and predicted impacts on them.
Published data sources Ministry of Tourism and Culture - Built
Heritage and Cultural Heritage Landscapes Checklist
Cultural/heritage assessment Commemorative statements Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data Existing Stage 1 Archaeology Assessment MTCS Correspondence (February 25,
2015)
Archaeological resources
Archaeological resources are non-renewable cultural resources that can be destroyed by the construction and operation of a waste disposal facility
Archaeological resources on-site and in vicinity and predicted impacts on them.
Built Environment
Environmental Component: Transportation
Effects from
truck transportation along access roads
Truck traffic associated with
continued operations of the landfill may adversely affect residents, businesses, institutions and movement of farm vehicles in the site vicinity
Disturbance to traffic operations Existing information and traffic data Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Environmental Component: Current and Planned Future Land Use
Effects on current and planned future land uses
The continued operation of the landfill may not be fully compatible with certain current and/or planned future land uses in the off-site study area. Waste disposal facilities can potentially affect the use and enjoyment of recreational resources in the vicinity of the site.
Current land use Planned land use Type(s) and proximity of off-site
recreational resources within 1000m of a landfill footprint potentially affected
Type(s) and proximity of off-site sensitive land uses (e.g. dwellings, churches, parks) within 1000m of a landfill footprint potentially affected
United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Official Plan and Zoning By-law
Township of North Stormont Official Plan and Zoning By-law
Aerial photographic mapping and field reconnaissance
Published data on public recreational facilities/activities
Provincial Policy Statement Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
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Odour Existing Conditions Report
Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Landfill Expansion Environmental Assessment
A-5
Evaluation Criteria
Rationale Indicators Data Sources
Environmental Component: Aggregate Extraction & Agricultural
Aggregate resources
Aggregate resources may be present in the area of the expanded landfill
Presence of known or identified aggregate resources and the predicted impact of impairment of their use due to the proposed footprint, construction and operation on-site.
Aggregate resources inventory mapping (ARIM)
Ontario geological survey Borehole logs from previous field
investigations Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data Provincial Policy Statement United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and
Glengarry Official Plan and Zoning By-law Township of North Stormont Official Plan
and Zoning By-law Aerial mapping and field reconnaissance Canadian Lands Inventory (CLI) mapping Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
Effects on agricultural land
Adjacent agricultural land may be affected by the development of the facility.
Current land use Predicted impacts on surrounding
agricultural operations Type(s) and proximity of agricultural
operations (e.g. organic, cash crop, livestock).
Environmental Component: Design and Operations
Site design and operational characteristics
The characteristics of the existing and proposed site design and engineered system requirements will affect site activities and operational and maintenance requirements.
Complexity of site infrastructure Operational flexibility
Existing and proposed site environmental control system designs and operational requirements
Proposed facility characteristics Landfill design and operations data
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Odour Existing Conditions Report
Eastern Ontario Waste Handling Facility Landfill Expansion Environmental Assessment
Appendix B
Site Plan
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LEGEND
EXISTING BOREHOLE / GROUNDWATER
MONITORING WELL LOCATION
LANDFILL GAS PROBE LOCATION
PNEUMATIC PIEZOMETER LOCATION
INCLINOMETER LOCATION
DUST MONITOR LOCATION
LEACHATE PIEZOMETER LOCATION
NOISE RECEPTOR LOCATION
EXISTING CPT OR BOREHOLE LOCATION
NORTH LEACHATE POND MONITORLOCATION
SETTLEMENT PLATE LOCATION
Phone: 450 655-8440 Phone: 450 655-9640
Fax: 450 655-7121
LEACHATE PUMP LOCATION
P-
GP-
I-
P-
R-
S
SP-
LPZ-
LP-
DM-
CPT-
REFERENCE
BASE PLAN PROVIDED IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT BYJ.L. RICHARDS & ASSOCIATES LIMITED.(FILE: C1-OSP JAN13.dwg DATE: 17 JANUARY 2013)
UPDATE OF BASE UAV TECHNOLOGY SURVEY OFDECEMBER 18th, 2015
Executive Summary1 Introduction2 EOWHF Expansion Study Area3 Methods3.1 Available Secondary Source Information Collection and Review3.2 Processes Undertaken3.3 Description of Field Studies3.3.1 Composting Facility Odour Emission Characterization Program3.3.2 Landfill Gas Monitoring
4 Description of the Existing Odour Environment4.1 Odour Based Standards and Guidelines4.2 Contaminants of Concern4.2.1 Hydrogen Sulphide4.2.2 Combustible Gas4.2.3 Odour4.2.4 Total Reduced Sulphur (TRS)4.2.5 Other Odorous Contaminants of Concern
4.3 Composting Facility Biofilter Exhaust Testing4.4 Landfill Gas Emissions4.5 Modelled Emissions4.5.1 Operating Conditions4.5.2 Emission Estimation Methodologies4.5.3 Data Quality4.5.4 Dispersion Model4.5.5 Meteorological Data4.5.6 Terrain Data4.5.7 Source Data4.5.8 Averaging Time and Conversions4.5.9 Dispersion Modelling Results
4.6 Odour Complaints Received
5 Summary Odour Existing Conditions6 Conclusions7 References8 Glossary of Terms9 Acronyms and Units