To the Editor:

Re: “Green Energy or Closed Landfill,” March 13.

I wish EnviroSolutions’ plans for the Lorton landfill meant Green Energy for Fairfax County. Unfortunately and disappointingly, after vigorous research and investigation, the Mt. Vernon Council has learned that their proposal largely means increased methane pollution for our air, negative impacts on recycling construction and demolition debris (CDD), the likely killing of eagles, and the greening of ESI’s wallets

Establishing vegetation on landfills is challenging. Effective planting requires careful plant selection, rigorous watering, clearing of invasive plants, and deer protectors on young trees. ESI has done a poor job of greening the landfill under current rules. Why would results be different under their new proposal?

When ESI received agreement to increase the landfill’s height, it promised "no landfill expansion." The proposed 70-foot berm wall and ensuing landfilling will create a 40-acre, flat surface on the top of the landfill, in place of the 4 acres currently allowed. The new debris will be a 100-foot thick layer of methane-producing “frosting” on the sides of the landfill. It will result in the removal of three of the seven existing ponds, destroying habitat and vegetation.

The largely bare hillside is an unattractive southern gateway to Fairfax County now. Under the proposed changes, it probably will remain so for many years.

I support renewable, non-carbon source energy and the South County Federation. Along with the Mt. Vernon Council, I want Fairfax’s initial effort to be carefully planned and executed, especially if it is a demonstration, leading the county toward a more carbon free, sustainable future. The proposed plan doesn’t meet these goals.

Eleanor Quigley

Alexandria