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Utility officials said today they’ve contacted four landowners at two potential sites 10 miles east of Genoa in Vernon County, asking permission to do soil and water testing to see whether either is suitable for an ash landfill.
Dairyland said it needs an off-site landfill for about 225,000 cubic yards of ash per year, as the result of new pollution control equipment being installed this year and in the future in Genoa. It’s part of $250 million in new environmental controls the company plans at its Genoa and Alma, Wis., plants.
While the landfill itself would be 55 to 75 acres, Dairyland wants to acquire about 600 acres to provide a buffer, said Wendy Berndt, Dairyland’s project manager. Eleven landowners could be affected at each site.
The two sites being considered are on the north side of Hwy. 56 in the town of Harmony, Berndt said. Two other finalist sites southeast of Genoa near Red Mound are “not under consideration at this time,” she said.
Dairyland spokeswoman Deb Mirasola they’re offering property owners compensation for permission to do the testing. If owners don’t agree, the utility has the option of using condemnation under state law.
“Dairyland has a policy of historically avoiding condemnation wherever possible, and it is our sincere hope we can reach voluntary agreements,” Mirasola said.
For more on this story, see Friday's Tribune or check back at www.lacrossetribune.com.
