Millersville Landfill Gas System Operation & Maintenance

What Was the Challenge?

The Anne Arundel County Department of Public Works, Bureau of Waste Management Services (DPW-BWMS) maintains two closed landfills and one operational landfill. Each of the landfill sites has unique operation and maintenance needs and is subject to different regulatory and reporting requirements. The operational landfill has a landfill gas to electricity (LFGTE) facility, as well as an enclosed flare and utility flare that provide gas control during LFGTE facility downtimes. Prior to B&L’s involvement, the LFGTE facility had been operating at a 70% load due to insufficient gas quality and quantity. In July 2025, DPW-BWMS contracted with B&L to provide full-time operation and maintenance of the County’s landfill gas collection and control system (GCCS). The system requires routine monitoring, preventative maintenance, and rapid-response troubleshooting during shutdowns to ensure safe gas control operations and energy production by the LFGTE facility.

How did Barton & Loguidice Provide a Solution?

B&L monitors the GCCS daily to verify proper function, identify system irregularities, and document key operating parameters. In addition, B&L inspects and tunes the gas extraction wells and horizontal collectors on a monthly basis to optimize vacuum distribution, improve overall gas quality, and maximize gas collection efficiency. The improved system efficiency and gas quality increased energy production at the LFGTE facility, increasing their operational loading from 70% to 100%. When operating at full capacity, the LFGTE facility generates enough electricity to power approximately 2,000 homes.

In addition, B&L monitored and maintained the on-site landfill gas infrastructure, evaluated system data, completed quarterly surface emissions monitoring at the operational landfill, and performed perimeter probe and indoor air monitoring at all three of the landfills in accordance with regulatory requirements. Comprehensive reports were prepared to summarize monitoring data, regulatory requirements, and system maintenance and performance.

Why Was This Project a Success?

In addition to improving gas quality and LFGTE facility production, the system operation and maintenance helped inform decision-making and long-term planning for the County. Through these services, B&L supports the County in maintaining safe, reliable, and compliant landfill gas operations while enhancing system performance and extending the useful life of critical landfill gas management system infrastructure.