This release was issued under a previous government.

The company voluntarily ceased operation after the fire was extinguished.

Overview

  • On November 18, 2013, a fire was reported at the Westar Landfill, a registered Class III landfill intended to take non-hazardous and inert wastes.
  • A State of Local Emergency was declared on November 20 and residences within a three kilometer radius, were evacuated.
  • Many local and provincial resources were involved in the suppression of this fire, air quality testing and the monitoring of human health impacts.
  • On January 3, firefighting operations were concluded and the landfill voluntarily ceased operation.

Terms of the Environmental Protection Order

Operators of Westar Landfill Ltd. must:

  • conduct an Environmental Assessment of the landfill;
  • conduct an Engineering Assessment of the landfill site and operations;
  • address the management of firefighting water remaining in the landfill;
  • address the need for groundwater monitoring at the landfill;
  • address management of the wastes removed from the landfill during firefighting operations.

Terms of the registration suspension

  • operators must cease all landfill operations until the suspension is lifted by the Director in writing;
  • the only activities to take place at the landfill are those required to meet any obligations under section 112 of the Environmental Protection and Enforcement Act or any order issued under this Act.

Environmental protection orders are a remedial tool used to ensure that action is taken to address an existing or potential environmental problem. They are one of many tools – including education and prevention – used by Environment and Sustainable Resource Development to ensure all Albertans can continue to enjoy a safe and healthy environment.