2026:
On Mar. 11, 2026, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) requested air monitoring support from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) EPA Region 7 at the City of Galena's construction and demolition (C&D) landfill, operated by Jordan Disposal LLC, for the smoldering (fire-type) event occurring within its boundaries.
EPA Region 7 deployed an On-Scene Coordinator, an additional responder, and START contractors to fulfill KDHE's Request for Federal Action for emergency perimeter air monitoring to the area for volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs), particulate matter, hydrogen sulfide, and other pollutants or contaminants from the incomplete smoldering of various wastes under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
The work performed will be guided and consistent with the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan (NCP).
2025:
On Aug. 2, 2025, KDHE was alerted to a fire-type event at the City of Galena's C&D landfill operated by Jordan Disposal LLC in Galena, Cherokee County, Kansas.
After an evaluation of the area and event by KDHE's District Office staff, KDHE submitted a Request for Federal Action to the EPA Region 7 to conduct emergency perimeter air monitoring due to the nature of the materials deposited in the C&D landfill following the Joplin tornado which when burned, and producing smoke and gasses, poses a potential threat to the health of the residents of Galena.
