Published: July 22, 2025
Source: The Times‑Tribune, reporting by Frank Lesnefsky
On July 18, 2025, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) sent Keystone Sanitary Landfill a formal deficiency letter outlining serious shortcomings in the landfill’s 10‑year operating‑permit renewal application.
Key takeaways
Leachate under‑reported by nearly 80 %. DEP data show Keystone now produces about 227,000 gallons per day—far above the 127,644 gpd peak the landfill projected during its expansion review.
Reverse‑osmosis concentrate disposal raises new risks. Keystone is dumping 20,000–67,000 gallons per day of the highly concentrated waste back onto its working face, potentially worsening leachate volume, odor, and slope stability.
Odor & gas controls deemed insufficient. DEP is requiring additional air monitoring, horizontal gas‑collection devices, and stricter temporary capping limits.
60‑day deadline. Keystone must submit a complete, revised application to DEP on or before September 16, 2025 (60 calendar days from the July 18 letter).
““There’s been no evidence whatsoever that the problems and burdens and harms associated with this growth are going to slow down. In fact, quite the opposite has been shown to be the case.””
What’s next?
DEP will review Keystone’s response and decide whether to renew, modify, or deny the permit. Friends of Lackawanna will continue pressing for the strongest possible protections—and we’ll need your voice when the public‑comment window opens.