How far can leachate travel to pollute wells?

Leachate, which is the liquid that has percolated through a solid and leached out some of its constituents, can travel significant distances depending on various environmental factors such as soil type, groundwater flow, and geological conditions.

Choosing a distance of 1,400 feet aligns with findings from studies that show leachate can migrate through the soil and into aquifers or wells, particularly in areas with porous materials that allow for easier movement.

Research indicates that leachate plume migration can vary greatly; however, in a general sense, 1,400 feet is often cited as a reasonable estimate for the distance leachate can travel, highlighting the potential risks that landfills and other waste disposal sites pose to nearby groundwater resources. Understanding this distance is critical for environmental health and regulatory compliance, as it informs the placement of monitoring wells and the need for protective measures in areas surrounding waste disposal facilities.