Three air monitors now track fine particulate matter and volatile organic compounds around the Seneca Meadows landfill, with a fourth monitor soon to be added. Installed by the Environmental Health Project (EHP) at the request of Seneca Lake Guardian, the monitors are located within three miles of the landfill and became operational Thursday. Seneca Lake Guardian will oversee data interpretation and advocacy efforts.
The landfill is scheduled to close in 2025 when its permit expires, but its owner, Waste Connections, is seeking approval for an expansion that would extend operations to 2040. The State Department of Environmental Conservation will decide on a related environmental impact statement by Dec. 12.
Advocates argue the monitoring network will empower residents with data to push for cleaner air and public health protections.
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