AltEn Community Update

July 17, 2024

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 17, 2024

Wet Cake Pilot Project

In-pile wet cake solidification has started, with several tons of wet cake transported and safely disposed at WM’s landfill. Wet cake transportation and disposal is to continue after the pilot project ends.

Northeast Lagoon: Liner Removal and Subsoil Sampling

Removal of the Northeast Lagoon liner is on track to be completed in July. Water continues to be pumped into the Southeast Lagoon for treatment. In addition, soil samples are being collected for analysis, which is expected to be shared in the coming months.

Southeast Lagoon Dredging

Solids remaining in the Southeast Lagoon are being removed using a hydraulic dredge. This work is expected to be completed in September.

Lagoon Water Treatment and Land Application

Water continues to be treated at an on-site treatment facility. As of mid-July, more than 90 million gallons have been treated; an estimated 25 to 30 million gallons remains to be treated, excluding stormwater. Treatment is expected to last through the end of the year, though may take longer with continued rainfall. Approximately 60.9 million gallons have been applied to land through Spring 2024. Land application will continue through 2025 until all treated water is applied.

Groundwater Monitoring

Groundwater samples were collected in June, with results showing normal pesticide screening levels that are representative of the region’s groundwater quality. There was an exception of one compound in MW5, which is located in the northwestern part of the site.

Other Site Activities

A new, larger on-site tornado shelter is being constructed for on-site personnel, with completion expected by the end of July.

Stay Informed

Check alteninfo.com for the latest updates about AltEn site activities.