Description
A subsurface investigation at a reclaimed sanitary landfill in Edmonton (Beverly) has revealed that combustible gases entering a golf course structure are generated from decomposing garbage in the old landfill. Gases containing methane up to a maximum of 83% by volume are present in the subsurface adjacent to the structure. A ventilation system beneath the building maintains the methane concentration at less than 50% of the lower explosive limit (2.5 volume percent). The atmosphere beneath the structure is monitored continuously for combustible gases; an automatic alarm system will be activated should methane concentration exceed 50% of the explosive rate. Based on the results of this investigation, it is apparent that a large reservoir of combustible gas is present within the reclaimed landfill site. It is probable that the methane monitoring/warning system, and the ventilation system must remain operative for a period in the order of 50 years or more.