Methane migrates. It goes from higher pressure areas to lower pressure areas. It also follows the path of least resistance. This can be via underground conduits, pipes, electrical lines, water and sewer lines etc. Methane also migrates upwards and discharges if possible at surface. Heavy snow can discourage this and promote greater lateral migration. The lack of a clay cap over the Bolender Landfill in Elmira, despite false claims to the contrary, should have encouraged the release of much of the sub-surface methane generated on this site. Possible reasons why this has not happened include the high water table and accompanying moisture which generates more methane gas. Also it is very possible that the actual size and volume of the landfill is much greater than acknowledged by our authorities.
Methane can enter buildings through cracks in the basement walls or even drilled holes allowing municipal services in and out of the building. Seals around these holes can shrink or break down over time. There is both a Lower Explosive Limit and an Upper Explosive Limit. Both of these have been present, exceeded and or not exceeded at multiple methane monitors over the decades. Hence if methane enters a residence that has a pilot light for a water heater, fireplace or furnace then again depending on the concentration of methane, an explosion can occur.
Portable methane monitors are available and should be used in homes and buildings anywhere near former or current landfills. At one time, years ago, CRA advised Woolwich to provide them for nearby homes possibly on High St. and George St. and maybe another of which I am not certain. Overall I feel that Woolwich have not been protective of local residents living near the Bolender Landfill.
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