Section 277.282. Number, location and depth of monitoring points

(a) The water quality monitoring system shall accurately characterize groundwater flows, groundwater chemistry and flow systems on the site and adjacent area. The system shall consist, at a minimum, of the following:

(1) At least one monitoring well at a point hydraulically upgradient from the disposal area in the direction of increasing static head that is capable of providing representative data of groundwater not affected by the facility, except when the facility occupies the most upgradient position in the flow system. In that case, sufficient downgradient monitoring wells shall be placed to determine the extent of adverse effects on groundwater from the facility.

(2) At least three monitoring wells at points hydraulically downgradient in the direction of decreasing static head from the area in which solid waste has been or will be disposed. In addition to three downgradient wells, the Department may allow one or more springs for monitoring points if the springs are hydraulically downgradient from the area in which solid waste has been or will be disposed, if the springs are developed and protected in a manner approved by the Department, and if the springs otherwise meet the requirements of this subchapter.

(3) A leachate detection system for the disposal area, when it is required by § § 277.251 and 277.254 (relating to scope and requirements; and leachate detection zone).

(4) A leachate collection system for the disposal area, when it is required by § 277.251 and § 277.257 (relating to leachate collection system within protective cover).

(5) Surface water monitoring points approved by the Department.

(b) The upgradient and downgradient monitoring wells shall be:

(1) Sufficient in number, location and depth to be representative of water quality.

(2) Located so as not to interfere with routine facility operations.

(3) Located within 200 feet of the permitted disposal area and located at the points of compliance.

(c) In addition to the requirements of subsection (b), upgradient monitoring wells shall be located so that they will not be affected by adverse effect on groundwater from the disposal area.

(d) In addition to the requirements of subsection (b), downgradient monitoring wells shall be located so that they will provide early detection of adverse effect on groundwater from the disposal area.

(e) Wells drilled under this section shall be drilled by drillers licensed under the Water Well Drillers License Act (32 P. S. § § 645.1—645.13).

(f) The well materials shall be decontaminated prior to installation.

The provisions of this § 277.282 amended December 22, 2000, effective December 23, 2000, 30 Pa.B. 6685. Immediately preceding text appears at serial pages (226315) to (226316).

Notation

Cross References

This section cited in 25 Pa. Code § 271.113 (relating to closure plan); 25 Pa. Code § 277.116 (relating to groundwater quality description); 25 Pa. Code § 277.152 (relating to water quality monitoring plan); 25 Pa. Code § 277.281 (relating to general requirements); 25 Pa. Code § 277.286 (relating to groundwater assessment plan); and 25 Pa. Code § 277.312 (relating to annual operation report).