The below information has been provided in an effort to help keep the community informed on a more frequent basis about progress at the AltEn site.
Ever since AltEn ceased operations at its facility in Mead in 2021, the AltEn Facility Response Group (FRG) has been voluntarily working under the guidance of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) to stabilize the AltEn site and develop a Remedial Action Plan (RAP) for the site. The FRG’s top priorities have been and continue to be to help ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. To-date, there has been no evidence of impacts to local drinking water.
The FRG is working diligently with the NDEE to identify the most effective and safest methods to address the current environmental conditions on the AltEn site. The remedial action plans (RAP) will recommend remediation for components remaining on-site, including wastewater, sludge, and wet cake.
July 31, 2023
AltEn Community Update
A progress report on the completion of trash removal from the AltEn site, in addition to updates on the solid waste pilot project, seed disposal, groundwater and other activities.
Other Materials (Non-Wet Cake) Removal Completed
More than 1,500 tons of debris, soil, biochar, starch, containers and other non-hazardous solid wastes have been removed from the AltEn site. Transportation of these materials was completed the week of June 19.
Solid Waste Pilot Project Update
As of July 25, terms and conditions have been agreed upon to begin the first steps of removing of up to 1,000 truckloads of solidified wet cake. Best practices will be followed to mitigate dust, odors, and stormwater, including monitoring air quality as well as keeping County Road 10 safe and clean.
Seed Disposal Update
Seeds will be transported from the AltEn site to a waste-to-energy facility in Tulsa, Okla. This work is expected to begin in August 2023 and could take up to five months to complete.
Groundwater Update
Methane, measured as combustible gas, was detected in on-site wells above the water table. These gases are commonly present as a result of organic material decomposition in groundwater. Levels in ambient air outside of the site’s wells are safe and will continue to be monitored.
Other Site Activities
Construction of the improved water treatment system continues, and operation is expected to commence in August 2023. in addition, fence construction along the site perimeter is starting in July.
Communications
The FRG will hold an open, informational community meeting before any wet cake is removed from the site. Please continue checking alteninfo.com for the latest updates, including details about when the next community meeting will be held.
