Property formerly used as landfills or dumps is increasingly being redeveloped. Public interest in making new uses for these properties is forcing the issue of landfill reuse into prominence. When, where, how, and in some cases, if, such redevelopment should be pursued are questions being considered by property owners, developers and all levels of government. There are many relevant considerations for landfill redevelopment, including state regulation and/or support for such redevelopment. Site Characterization Is Key The range of conditions that may be present at landfills/dumps being considered for redevelopment extends from those associated with historical neighborhood or industrial dumps to those of regulated monofills and solid waste landfills. A clear and accurate understanding of the pre-existing conditions will determine the level and type of effort required to redevelop the land. For instance, a modern-day regulated landfill with a liner system, landfill gas collection system and other controls can be more directly evaluated and designed for reuse than an orphaned landfill or dump that would first require substantial assessment to understand property conditions.

Adverse conditions that may need to be addressed for redevelopment include landfill gas (LFG), strength of the waste materials, direct contact with hazardous substances, soil erosion, leachate generation, water quality, and runoff. ...

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