MARSHALL — The Lyon County landfill may soon test innovative methods to tackle “forever chemicals” in landfill runoff, as county commissioners approved applying for a Minnesota Pollution Control Agency PFAS treatment grant on Tuesday.
The $500,000 grant could fund a pilot project using landfill-generated gas to evaporate leachate, a liquid formed by rainwater mixing with decomposing waste. The process aims to concentrate or remove PFAS — manmade chemicals resistant to environmental breakdown and linked to groundwater contamination.
The grant would cover equipment rental and infrastructure upgrades, including leachate transport pipes and gas redirection. A 10% local funding match is required.
Commissioners expressed mixed feelings about the proposal. While the project could advance PFAS management, concerns remain about the lack of permanent disposal solutions for the concentrated chemicals.
Despite uncertainties, the board approved applying for the grant, recognizing it as an opportunity to explore emerging technologies in environmental management.
