| Landfill leachate or garbage juice provides a potential threat to natural resources like ground water which surround the NTSWA Landfill #2 in Bradford County. In order to protect these natural resources and to be in compliance with applicable landfill regulations, NTSWA constructed a Landfill Leachate Treatment Facility. This facility is similar to a Sewage Treatment Plant, however, is geared to treat liquid wastes derived from the decomposing refuse. These liquids are pumped from the landfill and stored in glass lined silos until being treated in the leachate treatment plant. This plant has the capability of treating up to 16 gallons per minute, depending on the season and prominent weather conditions. |
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| The first stage ischemical treatment to remove heavy metals from the leachate. Acids and bases are used to adjust the pH of the leachate, causing a precipitation of the metals. |
| After chemical treatment, microorganisms are used for biological treatment of the leachate. These bugs are grown in heated tanks, through which leachate is pumped. Anaerobic (without air) microorganisms first remove acids and oils from the leachate. This process generates methane which is burned in a mini flare. Aerobic microorganisms then reduce the ammonia content of the leachate. The result or effluent is then sent for final treatment before being released into a nearby stream. The processed solids from the leachate are hydraulically pressed and returned to the landfill. | 
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