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BELIZE SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT REVISED

December 2008 4. 1

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING

4.1 TRANSFER STATIONS/ RECYCLING STATIONS

Since the objective is to remove open dumps from the offshore islands of San Pedro and

Caye Caulker it will be necessary to have a transfer station in Belize City where the waste

from these islands can be temporarily stored before being transported to the central

landfill site at Mile 22.

The Mile 3 Open Dump site has been identified as the likely area to have the transfer

station located as it will minimize cost and transportation needs in transferring wastes

from the islands to Belize City. The wastes will have already been baled/bagged and

ready for transportation before it leaves either San Pedro or Caye Caulker.

4.1.1 Belize City (Mile 3 and 3.5)

The Mile 3 open Dump is located about 3 miles to the west of Belize City in a

mangrove wetland area. The central part of the Dump has the coordinates UTM

16 Q 369844 and 193494 N. The site has an approximate area of 47,000 square

meters or 11.61 acres. This site is presently closed to the disposal of any solid

waste material.

In June of 2007, a secondary open dump site also became operational in Belize

City. This site, referred to as Mile 3.5, is located about half a mile west of the

previous Mile 3 site. It has an area of 4 acres. The central section of the Open

Dump has the coordinates UTM 16 Q 369705 and 11934749 N. This site is

located in a swampy area near mangroves. It is estimated that 448 cubic yards of

solid waste is transferred from the city to this site on a daily basis. The task of

collecting and transferring the wastes to the Dump site is done under the Belize

Waste Control, a private entity contracted by the Belize City Council since 1992.



December 2008 4. 2

Seven (7) backload compactor trucks, each with sixteen (16) cubic yards of

capacity, are utilized to perform this task on a daily basis. Belize City is divided

into two sectors, i.e. North and South Sectors with the Haulover Creek serving as

the boundary. Each sector then has specific days on which waste is collected,

Monday and Thursday on the North and Tuesday and Friday on the South

respectively.

Currently there are no practices employed at the site for the recording the volume

of solid waste being deposited at the Mile 3.5 Open Dump.

As a component of the ETEISA Report, water and leachate samples were collected

(see appendix J) from the Mile 3 and Mile 3.5 Open Dumps. The water samples

were collected from upstream and downstream while the leachate sample was

collected from within the Dump site. In-situ analysis was also conducted with the

use of a Digital Conductivity meter (Conductronic PC-18). Table 4.1 shows the

in-situ results.

Table 4.1: In-situ Analysis

Zone Value Unit

Upstream

Temperature 19.6 oC

Electrical

Conductivity

546 S/cm

pH 7.45 -

Downstream

Temperature 20.9 o C

Electrical

Conductivity

507 S/cm

pH 8.10 -

Leachate

Temperature 28.3 o C



December 2008 4. 3

Electrical

Conductivity

600 S/cm

pH 8.25 -

The results from the upstream samples indicated that the temperature was adequate

for this type of sample and the pH was found to be neutral, also adequate for this

sample. There were no heavy metals detected from this site. In regards to

Inorganic Macro-components, the result indicates low levels of Iron, however,

Manganese was not detected. Results also indicated that there was no presence of

Coliform bacteria detected. The laboratory data also indicates that there was no

pollution from organic loading BOD. See Table 4.2 below.

Table 4.2: Upstream Sample - Laboratory Results

Parameter Unit Result

Arsenic mg/l ND

Barium mg/l ND

CADMIUM mg/l ND

TOTAL ORGANIC CARBON mg/l 19.74

CHLORIDE mg/l 15,177

COLIFORM BACERIA (FECAL) MPN/100ml ND

CHROMIUM mg/l ND

BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN

DEMAND (BOD5)

mg/l ND

CHEMICAL OXYGEN DEMAND

(COD)

mg/l 580

IRON mg/l 0.071

FAT AND OILS mg/l ND

MANGANESE mg/l ND

MERCURY mg/l ND

NITRATE mg/l 0.3024



December 2008 4. 4

NITRITE mg/l 0.1209

AMMONIACAL NITROGEN mg/l 0.6037

LEAD mg/l ND

SELENIUM mg/l ND

TDS (TOTAL DISOLVED

SOLIDS)

mg/l 30956

SULFATE mg/l 1843.94

ZINC mg/l 0.0377

From the downstream results, it was confirmed that the temperature was also

adequate at 20.9 ºC and that there was an alkaline pH. It was noted, however, that

low levels of mercury and lead were detected. The findings also indicated that the

BOD/COD ratio is 61.7/456=0.135, which is a value characteristic of

methanogenic leachates. Coliform bacteria were also present in this sample. High

levels of iron and some manganese were also detected from this sample. The high

levels of Iron could be attributed to amount of waste iron rust. See Table 4.3

below.

Table 4.3: Downstream – Laboratory Results

Parameter Unit Result

Arsenic mg/l ND

Barium mg/l 0.1154

CADMIUM mg/l ND


CHLORIDE mg/l 2365

COLIFORM BACERIA (FECAL) MPN/100ml 2300

CHROMIUM mg/l ND

BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN

DEMAND (BOD5)

mg/l 61.7



December 2008 4. 5


(COD)

mg/l 456

IRON mg/l 14.950

FAT AND OILS mg/l 35.5

MANGANESE mg/l 0.8940

MERCURY mg/l 0.00020

NITRATE mg/l 0.3727

NITRITE mg/l 0.2696


LEAD mg/l 0.1711

SELENIUM mg/l ND

TDS (TOTAL DISOLVED

SOLIDS)

mg/l 6208

SULFATE mg/l 985.72

ZINC mg/l 0.7828

When water percolates through the waste, it promotes and assists the processes of

decomposition by bacteria and Fungi. In actively decomposing waste the

temperature rises 28.3 ºC and the pH 8.25 and many metal ions which are

relatively insoluble at neutral pH can become dissolved in the developing leachate.

As can be noted from Table 4.4 below, leachate sample laboratory results, it was

detected that there was low levels of heavy metals present. Iron on the other hand,

was relatively low, being only 5.241 mg/l. The results also indicated that here was

no pollution from organic loading as BOD was not detected, however, COD was

found to 320 mg/l. No Coliform bacteria were noted in this sample. Due to the

fact that ammonia is released by the decomposition of proteins, low levels (91.2)

of this substance were noted in the sample. An average amount (3,201mg/l) of

total dissolved solids was recorded from this sample. Average amounts of chloride

and iron was also found from this sample.



December 2008 4. 6

Table 4.4: Leachate – Laboratory Results

Par Parameter Unit Result

Arsenic mg/l ND

Barium mg/l 0.3232

CADMIUM mg/l ND


CHLORIDE mg/l 1020

COLIFORM BACERIA (FECAL) MPN/100ml ND

CHROMIUM mg/l ND

BIOLOGICAL OXYGEN

DEMAND (BOD5)

mg/l ND


(COD)

mg/l 320

IRON mg/l 5.241

FAT AND OILS mg/l ND

MANGANESE mg/l 0.41

MERCURY mg/l ND

NITRATE mg/l 0.2874

NITRITE mg/l 0.245


LEAD mg/l 0.0359

SELENIUM mg/l ND

TDS (TOTAL DISOLVED

SOLIDS)

mg/l 3201

SULFATE mg/l 173.14

ZINC mg/l 0.0145



December 2008 4. 7

4.1.2 San Pedro

The San Pedro site is located south of Ambergris Caye and is currently being used

as an open dump. The common practice to reduce waste volume at the site is open

burning. The surrounding vegetation is mainly dwarf mangroves, which is

common in areas of little flushing as nitrates and phosphates are limiting nutrients

affecting their growth.

In a straight line, the site is approximately 1.86 miles southeast from the San Pedro

Airstrip; approximately 2.7 miles north of Grand Canal; and quarter mile from the

San Pedro Lagoon to the west and from the Caribbean Sea to the east. The nearest

Marine Protected area to the site is the Holchan Marine Reserve, to the south. The

site is located on a 26 acre parcel of land. This parcel of land is privately owned

and the San Pedro Town Board has entered into a five (5) year lease agreement

between the private land owner for the use and management of the site for the

disposal of solid waste generated on Ambergris Caye. However, of the 26 acres,

only a relatively small area of about 5-6 acres is being used for the actual

depositing of waste.

4.1.3 Caye Caulker

The Caye Caulker dump site is located on the south western area of the island,

immediately west of the airstrip. The site is approximately 1.5 acres in area and is

situated in a mangrove wetland amongst several small permanently inundated

areas and adjacent to a canal that connects to the Caribbean Sea on the leeward

side of the Island.

The site is an eyesore readily visible to tourist in particular those that fly into the

island. The geology of the area is similar to that of the San Pedro dump site. The

geologic profile is primarily comprised of a thin upper layer of coarse calcareous



December 2008 4. 8

sand mixed with mud and peat, underlain by peat, followed once more by a layer

of fine coralline sand before reaching limestone bedrock. The soils essentially

have very little water retention capacity and would readily permit leaching of

pollutants. The dumpsite is easily accessed by stray dogs and cats and wildlife

such as raccoons. Gulls, vultures, brown jays, grackles and other bird species are

known to frequent the site.

Because of its close proximity to residences this site has always being a site of

concern associated with the proliferation of vermin and other pests. The economy

of the Island being dependent on tourism is very vulnerable to the devastating,

potential impact which an outbreak of an environmental disease such as malaria,

typhoid or cholera could have on the livelihood of its residents. The dumpsite

receives an average of 38 tons of garbage per weak, with a considerable

percentage (45%) consisting of organic waste and plastics and styrofoam (see

appendices J and K).

The open burning of some of these wastes has been identified as one of the main

sources of releases of dioxins and furans into the atmosphere. Garbage on this site

would be periodically lit to reduce its volume and sometimes fires would occur as

a result of spontaneous combustion. Residents and visitors are not only being

affected by the smoke but could also unknowingly be exposed to the insidious

effects of some of the contaminants contained in the emissions being released. The

close proximity of the site to the Pelican Marina allows for pollutants to readily

directly enter the Caribbean Sea with its subsequent potential impacts to the

surrounding marine ecosystem. An analysis of the leachate produced by the Dump

conducted by ETIESA (appendix I ) would indicate that the site is being

contaminated.

Air traffic is sometimes negatively impacted due to low visibility caused by the

smoke and air safety reduced to the abundance of birds attracted by the site. The

Owners of the adjacent Pelican Marina have complained on several occasions



December 2008 4. 9

about the release of litter and other pollutants from the dump unto their

development which caters primarily to the tourism industry. There are local

operators who provide services to villagers and businesses of transporting their

waste material to the dump site. The vehicles utilized to carry out these services

include pickup trucks and bicycles with carts.

4.2 REGIONAL SANITARY LANDFILL: MILE 22 SITE

4.2.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

4.2.1.1 Surrounding Land Use

The proposed solid waste site is located about 4 km due north from its

existing entry point on the Western Highway. Along this route the land is

open pine orchard savannah interspersed with occasional thickets along

low lying drainage basins which intersect the route at various points. The

site is bordered by hardwood forest to the north and by mostly broken ridge

transitional forest to the east, south and west detailed in Figure 4.1. There

are no inhabited centers or farmsteads in the areas around the access road

right of way on the landfill site and the only discernable activity now

taking place near the site is selective logging. This area falls into the Belize

River Drainage Basin with surface runoff draining into the Cox and

Mucklehany lagoons which links up to form the Mussel Creek drainage

which then empties into the Belize River near Double Run. Further away

from the site there are several ongoing and proposed developments and

business enterprises. These are Big Falls Farm, Black Orchid Garden,

Ramon’s Development, Olympic Development and Jih Chan. With the

exception of Big Falls Farm all off these properties are intended for

housing development and in the case of Jih Chan this initiative is well

under way. Big Falls Farm is located about 12.5 km. to the Northwest of

the proposed landfill site. It contains 14,700 ha. of land and in the 1970s

and 80s was a major rice producing enterprise producing an abundance for



December 2008 4.10



December 2008 4.11

local consumption and surplus for export. There have been tentative efforts

to revive this industry on the property since a good portion of the

infrastructure remains. The farm was and still is a noted producer of beef

cattle mainly catering to the local market. Cleared land covers about 24%

of the property with broadleaf forest and wetlands covering the remainder.

This property contains Cox Lagoon which has been noted in the past as an

area rich in wildlife, especially Crocodiles and wading birds. This wetland

area, including Mucklehaney lagoon and Mussel Creek, has been identified

as a gap in the National Protected Areas System and is a key site for

securing comprehensive community coverage and an important link

between the Northern and Southern internal Biological Corridors. This area

including its soils and vegetation types is emphasized in this study because

its drainage system encompasses the site of the proposed landfill site.

To the southeast of the site there is an area which is being proposed as a

residential community. This development called Black Orchid Garden is an

initiative spearheaded by a group of expatriate Belizean Americans who

are committed to establishing a residential development which will

accommodate the resettling of members of this group back into the

country. A development plan for this property is in circulation but so far

there has been little or no development on the ground. The property has

been surveyed. The development is shown on the site plan, Figure 3.6. This

project has become dormant for the past few years and ahs yet to obtain

environmental clearance. The north boundary of this property is being

planned as a natural buffer area that would also double as a site for utility

infrastructure and recreational purposes. This portion of the property is

close to the boundary of the landfill site and if present development plans

remain unaltered, a potential conflict over land use ma y arise. The

vegetation type over most of this property is pine orchard savannah but a



December 2008 4.12

sizeable portion also falls into low waterlogged marsh with scrub

vegetation.

Ramon Development is a large property that extends to both sides of the

Western Highway and extends south of the project site. This property

includes a portion of the land that the new sanitary landfill site will be

located on. The property is mostly undeveloped and includes pine orchard

savannah on both sides of the western highway and broadleaf forest along

its south boundary with the Sibun River.

Jih Chan Limited was planned to be a major residential development along

the Western Highway. The parcel contains 3,170 acres of which 1,313

acres or 40% of the total was meant for residential purposes, 266 acres for

commercial or industrial activity, 240 acres for public easements and

recreation, 505 acres for small holder agricultural activities. The remainder

of land is allocated for the provision of infrastructural services, including a

sanitary landfill. This existing development is located about 5 km SW off

the proposed sanitary landfill site. To date the full developmental plans for

this site has not been realized and only about 35 houses have been built

with no new one built in the last five years, nevertheless the potential for

a substantial residential settlement remains.

In addition to these entities, other important sites but further afield are the

Belize Zoo (12.0 km. from the site) and Tropical Education Center (10.0

km.), La Democracia and Mahogany Heights, a New Town Site with

presently 350 new homes (both 20 km from the site).

The area around the landfill site is not dedicated to any subsistence or

commercial land use. There is no human habitation within a 4 km radius of

the site and agriculture development is minimal. The existing dirt/gravel



December 2008 4.13

access road is currently being used as a temporary ‘bacadeer’ for loggers

who are operating within the area. It also appears that the access road is

occasionally used as a convenient drop off depot for the illegal dumping of

garbage. Garbage has accumulated at several locations along the southerly

portion of the route off the Western Highway.

The entire stretch of the Western Highway from Belize City to its terminus

at the border is rapidly being settled. Statistics have not been compiled to

show the rate of this increase but the Belize and Cayo District through

which the highway passes through, are the two most populous districts

having 29.8% and 22.9% of the nation’s population respectively. If present

development plans for the stretch of the Western Highway near the landfill

site materialize as planned, this area could become one of the fastest

population growth areas in the country. With the presence of Mahogany

Heights and other proposed developments along the Western Highway, the

area would appear as a rapid growing area of the country. A major housing

development is also presently located at mile 8, while others are proposed

for the areas around Burrell Boom and Hattieville. All these new and

proposed developments will benefit from this new landfill facility since

solid waste disposal is a serious development constraint facing developers.

In addition, a larger landfill would provide economic benefits over a series

of small uncontrolled sites for each development.

4.2.1.2 Existing Road and Traffic Conditions

4.2.1.2.1 Alternative Access Road

The Mile 22 landfill site can be accessed from the existing trail to the west

(Mile 24) and the existing right of way (Mile 22) east along the Western

Highway. This highway is in turn directly or indirectly connected to all of



December 2008 4.14

the other major road systems in the country hence facilitating access to all

the major regions. A gravel/dirt road once lead from the Western Highway

at mile 24 into the site. The first section of this road is generally in good

condition but would have to be significantly upgraded to meet the

anticipated heavy demands of traffic entering the landfill site. In its present

condition the road lacks surface drainage and portions of the roadway will

quickly become flooded, making it impassable in the rainy season. A box

culvert currently affords drainage along the Western Highway but further

in floods along one creek has washed away the road and access is only

possible over a makeshift bridge built of logs juxtaposed along the creek

bed. In addition, this area has several steel culverts in place which are in

poor condition. The land for this access route would have to be approved,

surveyed and purchased. In addition, without constructing a service road

400-500 m in length parallel to the Western Highway, poor visibility at the

approaches to the Western Highway at mile 24 will become a serious

impediment to using this road as the main access to the landfill site. Good

site access has been identified as one of the main criteria used in evaluating

the suitability of any landfill site (See section 3). The old entrance to the

landfill site lies near the top of a hill; the road rises as it meets the highway

along a ridge. The approach from the west has very poor visibility being

blocked by the land elevation at the Big Falls road cutoff, which lies at the

crest of the hill. To compound the visibility problem at this spot, the

highway takes a left turn after the Big falls road cutoff. In recent years,

there have been numerous fatal accidents at this location.

4.2.1.2.2 New Access to Existing Road

In 2006-2007 a new access located at about 1/4 mile away from the

previous entrance to the existing trail or dirt road was built by the Ministry



December 2008 4.15

of Work. This was done to allow for safer access since this access would

allow better visibility along both sides of the highway. In addition

Several sections of the existing trails were realigned and upgraded for

easier and safer flow of traffic. These works were being done following

recommendation contained in the STANTEC EIA of 2001.

Another alternative access along the property line that divides the Ramon

Property from Olympic Development and ABI was also investigated. This

route was eventually ruled out because much of it would have traversed

low lying marshy areas which would have increased the capital cost

associated with this activity tremendously. Since the landfill site must

have year round access, the road leading to it must allow for all weather

use and be able to withstand the anticipated heavy traffic and tonnage.

These criteria would indicate a need for a paved road surface with adequate

drainage installed.

4.2.1.2.3 Traffic on Western Highway

The present traffic count on the highway leading past this site is uncertain

but is believed to be on a rising trend mainly due to two factors:

Increased ownership of motor vehicles countrywide for example

between 1990 and 1998 there was a 65.8 increase in motor vehicle

ownership (Central Statistical Office, April 1999).

The increasing population of residential areas along the Western

Highway, in particular, between Belize City and Belmopan.

In 1995, 1998 and 2002, the Ministry of Works conducted three motor

vehicle censuses along the Western Highway and data was gathered to

access the frequency of highway usage. Data was collected at milepost 4,



December 2008 4.16

17 and 35. The traffic frequency data is summarized as follows. In the year

2006, Belize saw an increase in the number of vehicles that have been

involved in the scrap metal industry. In the period September to December

of 2006, the Department of the Environment, the agency responsible for

issuing License to Export Metal, recorded a total export of 1150 tons of

Scrap metal of which 1050 tons were exported via the Western Border with

the use of 71 heavy vehicles.

This industry further bloomed and in 2007 a total of 8807.5 tons of Scrap

Metal of which 8367.5 tons were exported via the Western Border with the

use of 672 heavy vehicles.

In comparing the Ministry of Works data and those of the Department of

the Environment, from the period 2002 to 2007, the amount of heavy

vehicles trafficking the Western Highway, being anywhere from Belize

City to the Western Border has seen a significant increase. (See Table 4.5)

The drop in traffic between miles 17 to 35 is perhaps accounted for by

vehicles using the Coastal Road which divert traffic coming from the 2

southern districts away from areas above La Democracia. This road is used

more often when weather conditions and road condition on the gravel road

are good.



December 2008 4.17

Table 4.5 Vehicular Traffic on the Western Highway

Census Point

Average Light Vehicle

Traffic

(vehicles per day)

Average Heavy Vehicle

Traffic

(vehicles per day)

Average Total Vehicle

Traffic

(vehicle per day)

Mile 4:

March 1995

January 1998

1617

1784

703

650

2320

2435

March 2002 2067 327 2439

Mile 17:

March 1995

January 1998

716

Nd

367

Nd

1084

Nd

March 2002 1449 365 1814

Mile 35:

March 1995

January 1998

524

819

178

191

701

1010

March 2002 641 199 840



December 2008 4.18

4.2.1.3 Existing Topography

4.2.1.3.1 Topography and Drainage

The proposed Regional Sanitary landfill Mile 22 site will occupy a high

ridge near the transitional zone (Appendix E) between the pine-orchard

savannah and the broadleaf broken ridge forest. The site occupies the apex

of the ridge with the land elevation falling away rapidly to the north, south

and to the east. In the past, the northerly portion of this site was heavily

excavated for gravel road construction and remains in a heavily disturbed

state. It appears that the materials extracted here were highly favored by the

builders for road construction and that this was the main extraction site

along this section of the road. The site is full of borrow pits but evidence of

the depth of the digging can be found from the occasional outcroppings

containing large trees which exist throughout the site. Materials were dug

down to 4 meters deep. (Appendix E: Plates 2 & 9).

Since this extraction took place, surface erosion has cut deep ruts into the

exposed and eroded subsoils. Deep ruts run from the highest part of the

ridge in all directions but are especially pronounced along the eastern and

northern slopes, which as a rule, are generally steeper. The assessment of

the site for this study took place in the early part of the rainy season (late

June to July) during a low rainfall period. Very little standing water could

be found on the site, however it is believed that most of these borrow pits

will hold water during the rainy season. At the southern end of the

excavated area about 230 m. from the site apex lies a small unnamed creek

(Appendix E: Plate 8), flowing in a west to east direction. This creek is

about 2.5 m wide and 2 m. deep and collects surface drainage from the

south slope and some from the east and west slopes. This stream is joined

by another stream of similar size, flowing roughly from NW to SE. Beyond



December 2008 4.19

its confluence the stream enters a swampy marsh where it breaks into

smaller channels, which join before crossing the entrance road.

After crossing the existing entrance road the stream leads into a thicket of

broadleaf forest to the east of the site. The stream flows through this thicket

and then joins a major creek flowing northward from the box culvert under

the Western Highway. The creek eventually drains into Cox Lagoon and

then the Creek, which flows into Mussel Creek. This system then empties

into the Belize River.

The surface flow over the remainder of the site is towards lesser ordered

streams, many of them existing as localized troughs between the ridges and

are probably only active and distinguishable after heavy rainfall.

Nevertheless, the general trend remains the same. All drainage at this site is

towards the Belize River and its tributaries; mainly the Cox and

Mucklehany drainage systems. This means a general east and north flow

for the surface waters emanating from this site.

4.2.1.4 Soils and Geology

4.2.1.4.1 Regional Soils and Geology

The study area lies within the region referred to as the Northern Coastal

Plains of Belize (King et. al.,1992 ). This area contains mostly flat to

undulating topography, which are characteristic of the Belize River Valley

and Northern Belize. Most of the plain is underlain by Cenozoic limestone,

decreasing in age and hardness from the southwest to the northeast. The

natural forest cover over these limestone derived soils are semi-deciduous

broadleaf forest, however, often times these areas are interspersed with

areas of pine forest and orchard savannah over leached soils from the



December 2008 4.20

Pleistocene alluvium (King et al., 1992). Soils of the Pinol Series, which

occur over the coastal deposits along the Western Highway, belong to the

puletan suite of soils. The undulating plain subunit has been characterized

as having soils of the Rough Mile series, while the high plain subunit is

associated with the Colonel English series, the alluvial wash with the

Haciapina Series, and the low plain with the Bocotora Series. The Rough

Mile Series soils have been characterized as vertic planasols (Miller and

Miller, 1995) in which the A2 horizon is weakly developed, grayish brown

in color and sandy loam or loam in texture. The B horizon is strongly

mottled clay, while the C horizon (45-100 cm depth) is gray and mottled

light gray or white, yellow, brown, and red. The clay subsoil contains

slickensides. The Colonel English Series soils comprise a thin gray loamy

sand A1 horizon overlying a bleached albic loamy sand or sandy loam

(Miller and Miller, op cit). The B horizon (at about 50 cm) is strongly

mottled gray, yellow, brown and red, which grades with a mottled clay C

horizon below about 100 cm. Miller and Miller (1995) noted that gravel

was common below the lower A horizon. The Bocotora sub-type is a pale

colored sandy topsoil over mottled red and white sandy clay subsoil, with

acid conditions. Low subsoil permeability and poor drainage were noted

(King et. al., 1992). Characteristic vegetation is pine savannah, in which

there were lower denser patches, providing for a more varied understory of

shrubs. The Haciapina subtype consist of deep, pale colored very wet sandy

topsoils over compact red and white mottled clay subsoils, which are very

poorly drained. The characteristic vegetation for the Haciapina was given

as pine savannah with minimal tree cover other than clumps of palmetto

(King et. al., 1992).

In terms of agriculture potential and land use, the undulating plain (Rough

Mile) was classed as “extremely small”, being limited by nutrients,

moisture and root room. Currently, the site is being used as a quarry for



December 2008 4.21

road gravel and landfill. The high plain subunit (Colonel English) was also

used for gravel extraction. It was also classed as “extremely small” in

agricultural potential, as it is limited by nutrients, moisture and root room.

The alluvial wash (Haciapina) was assessed as “marginal”, being limited in

nutrients and drainage. Low plain areas (Bocotora) are limited by nutrients,

moisture and root room, and were classed as “extremely small” in

agricultural potential. A smaller area just west of Teakettle Creek falls into

the Beaver Dam Plains Land System which is the prevalent land series

north of the Western Highway. These vertisols occur on marl derived from

limestone (Miller and Miller, 1995), and have a high clay content (60-

90%). The dominant clay is montmorillonite, characterized by dry season

surface cracking, wet season intractability, and slicken sides with irregular

horizon boundaries. Very little cultivation occurs in this soil type, which is

limited by workability, root room and proper drainage. This soil was given

a “moderate” potential for agricultural value (King et. al., 1992). Further to

the west of the site are lands of the Lower Belize Floodplains, comprising

sub-units of alluvial wash, high bench and low bench. Soil types include

Meditation, Bermudian Landing and Lemonal. There is very little

cultivation, although there has been some pasturing on high floodplain

bench areas. The soil has good agricultural potential although it is

compromised by poor drainage and workability. To the north of the

Western Highway, are soils of the Neustadt Swamps Land Type, many

comprising sub-units of open savannah plain but with patches of low marsh

forest plain and marsh forest plain. Soil types include Chucum and Sibal,

with uses ranging from “very limited pasture” to none. Soils of the Chucum

subsuites are seasonal freshwater gleys which are poorly drained and

basically infertile (King et. al., 1992). Agricultural potential was rated as

“marginal”, with constraints from workability, wetness, root room and

nutrients. Typical vegetation (Appendix E: Plates 5,6 & 7) is low akalche

bush, with a high proportion of sclerophyllous shrubs (e.g., tinta, chucum



December 2008 4.22

and stunted zapote) (King et. al., 1992). Sibal soil types are associated with

low herbaceous swamp vegetation, e.g., rushes and sedges, with some open

water supporting water lilies and other floating, emergent or sub-emergent

vegetation. In summary the Mile 22 project site is located on soils of very

limited agricultural potential being comprised predominantly of Pinol

Series soil types which provide “extremely small” to “moderate” prospects

for agricultural success without substantial inputs of investments and

technical know how. The site is of limited conservation value being well

represented within the national protected areas management system. It

should be noted that there are two principal vegetation types being

supported on the soils at the site. These are type 15 (Lowland Needleleaf

Moist Forest over poor soils) and type 4 (Lowland Broadleaf Forest over

poor or Sandy Soils) and according to Wilson (NARMAP, 1995) fully

17.7% and 32.9% of these were already represented in protected areas.

This percentage is likely to have increased significantly with recent

declarations of new protected areas and acquisitions into private reserves.

The situation in the surrounding area is less favorable in terms of protected

areas coverage and potential land use. Although most of the areas to the

south, east and north are of the Pinol series are well represented in the

national protected areas system, however the areas to the west are not. In

the region to the southeast are the Lowland Moist Evergreen Seasonal

Broadleaf Forest over limestone of the Central Eastern variant. The soils

that support this forest are well represented in the middle reaches of the

Belize River Valley and some within the Community Baboon Sanctuary,

however this is not a statutory protected area. Instead, this area relies on

the voluntary pledges of its members, hence long term security cannot be

taken for granted. In addition much of the soils to the northeast of the site

near the Belize River are of grade I and III agricultural values.



December 2008 4.23

4.2.1.5 Geology and Soils of the Project Site

A 3 hole drilling and observation well installation program was undertaken along

with examination of the topography and drainage, and examination of quarry pits

at the project site. Thirty-four test pits were excavated in 2001 at various points on

the site, providing more information on sub-strata and suitability of the surficial

soils for landfill construction. The above observations, including stratigraphy, are

summarized in Appendix F, the Hydrogeologic Report for Mile 22, and a map of

the site showing the test pit and borehole locations is presented as Figure 3.2 in

the design set. At the proposed landfill site, there is a ridge which begins near the

existing entrance from the (new) Western Highway. It reaches a maximum height

about 17 m above the surrounding palmetto surface. The ridge has a core of clay,

limestone and marl with the gravel deposits draped over the sides. The area of the

proposed landfill appears to be covered by a thin layer of deposits containing

abundant granular materials. The granular materials are comprised of a matrix of

sand, silt and clay in which there are abundant pebbles. Beneath h this layer, there

is in most places an iron-stained sandy silty clay within which there are deposits of

white limey clay. At depths of about 1 - 3 m, the red staining gives way to white,

the sand and silt matrix disappears, and the material is a dense white clay. The clay

becomes progressively harder with depth. The red or white clay near the surface,

as observed in the holes or in the pits, is plastic with a low permeability. In situ

and laboratory tests on this white clay have established permeability in the order of

10 -9m/sec. Permeability is in simple terms: a velocity. The velocity of 10 -9m/sec

equates to a particle travelling a distance of about 0.3 meters per year.

Examination of the borehole and test pit logs gives a fairly consistent picture of the

underlying strata. Over much of the site, the topsoil has been removed by previous

gravel extraction activities; where some still remains, it occupies approximately

the top 1 to 3 meters. Typically, brown or red clay which is sandy or crumbly in

texture is encountered from about 10 cm to about 100 cm below the surface.



December 2008 4.24

Below this, there are typically layers of mixed red and white clay. White clay is

found below about 1.0- 2.0 m from the surface, the upper portions often being

crumbly, while the lower layers (to depth of drilling) are compact and dense. In

summary, the site is underlain by a thick layer grading from plastic clay to marl to

limestone. The clay has a substantial thickness and is of very low permeability. It

presumably would provide an excellent natural liner for the proposed sanitary

landfill. The granular materials lying on the surface at various locations on the site

could be used for developing on-site roads. The clay materials that would be

excavated in the construction of the landfill cells would be appropriate for both

interim and final covering of the wastes.

4.2.1.6 Surface Water and Use

4.2.1.6.1 Surface Water in Belize

While Belize is a relatively low country, its river systems and network of

perennial streams still provide most of its water needs (Hartshorn et. al.

1984). Streams in the mountainous areas drain along steep, straight

courses, while on the coastal plain savannah they become progressively

more sluggish. Numerous lagoons, mangrove swamps and estuaries form

as the slow moving rivers empty at the coast. The proposed landfill site is

located in the drainage basin of the Belize River, which for the purposes of

this report can be arbitrarily delineated as the areas north of the Western

Highway. The Belize River basin is presented as Figure 4.2. This

observation is not in agreement with the Watersheds Map of Belize which

shows the area as part of the northern boundary of the Sibun River

Drainage Basin. While the general premise of the map may be true, a

ground reconnaissance of the site shows that the streams flowing from the

site are flowing in an easterly direction towards the Belize River. To the

south of the highway the drainage basin of this river abuts the drainage

basin of the Sibun River, which drains a much smaller watershed than the



December 2008 4.25

Belize River. A major culvert under the Western highway flows north

toward the Belize River.

4.2.1.6.2 Belize River Drainage Basin

Catchment Area:

The Belize River and its tributaries are the most important inland water

system in Belize, draining an area of 9,434.2 km2, which is a far larger

area than any other river system in the country. A large part of the

catchment of this river is in neighbouring Guatemala and this portion is

reflected in the above quoted figure. Because of its importance the flow

and drainage characteristics of this river system has also been the most

intensively studied of all the inland water systems of Belize. The

topography of the drainage system varies from west to east but can be

broadly divided between the coastal plains zone to the east and the higher

elevation areas to the west. The Coastal Plains section is below 100m ASL

and generally has slopes of less than 2%. In contrast the upper regions of

the river is highly dissected within a network of mountain basins and

plateaus with slopes ranging from 45-55% and elevations surpassing

1000m. In a study of Belizean water catchments to determine the relative

risk index for the various catchments, the Belize River scored the highest

and was therefore defined as the system most at risk.

Hydrology:

The numerous mountain tributaries of this river feed into a slow moving,

meandering coastal river prone to high flood peaks (+5m.). Rainfall varies

from 2,500mm in the highlands falling to 1,500mm along the coast and

even more along the north and northwest. Headwater stage increases of up

to 15m in a day occur at sub-basin confluences. The Macal River at Cristo

Rey experiences minimum flow depths as low as 1m and as high as 18m



December 2008 4.26

with flows well over 1000 m3/s Benque Viejo station shows that the Mopan

branch produces average daily discharges varying from 1m3/s to 275m

3/s

with an annual daily mean between 20 and 40m3/s. Peaks are attenuated

onto the coastal plain due the staggered flood water arrival through the

drainage network and shallowing of the channel. Average daily discharge

into the ocean is thought to be in the range of 155m3/s, however Double

Run has recorded peak flows in the range of 550-600m3/s and low flows

down to 10-20m3/s. At this location average daily flow is computed to be

100-150m3/s which are similar to those obtained for Banana Bank and Big

Falls Ranch further upstream.

Water Quality:

Water quality measurements depend on the timing of the test and flood

stage, but generally alkalinity and hardness of the baseflows are high and

decreasing as the higher flow (flood stage) kicks in. High sulphate levels

have been recorded and pH at baseflow is slightly basic. Several mid-size

point source pollution sites have been identified some originating from

domestic and small industrial outlets in San Ignacio and Spanish Lookout.

Other sources were identified at the waste water treatment plant at

Belmopan and Double Run (which supplies Belize City) and at plants in

Ladyville. BOD, pathogens and suspended solids were considered to be the

most significant contaminants with secondary sources ranging from

caustics to chlorine, oil and grease. It is likely that some non-point

agricultural runoff and flooding related input of sediments and organic

materials could be expected below San Ignacio. Sediment loads could also

be attributed to construction activities and the mining of materials for the

construction industry. Livestock grazing along the riverbanks may account

for one source of BOD and pathogens. There is some indication that illegal

dumping of pollutants occur in the river further upstream in Guatemala.

Table 4.6 also illustrates the general water quality of the Belize River post



December 2008 4.27

construction of Chalillo and ongoing construction activities of the Vaca

run-of the river hydroelectric facility.



December 2008 4.28

______________________________________________________________________________________________

Table 4.6

BELIZE RIVER WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS

Catchment: Belize River Basin

Monitoring Station: Double Run

Date Alkalinity Chloride Hardness Iron Sulphates Turbidity EC Temp. pH Nitrate Phosphate Stage

Units mg/1 mg/1 mg/1 mg/1 mg/1 FTU Umhos/cm 0C Units mg/1 mg/1 m

2-4-82 125 265 450 0.05 190 0.56 490 25 7.8 - - 0.4

12-4-83 - 50 405 0.07 285 4 910 29 8 - - 0.74

12-4-83 100 75 460 - 0.56 670 26 706 - - -

9-5-83 166 39 544 0 315 0 1000 31 8 - - 0.57

2-7-83 93 24 220 0.04 85 15 480 28 7.4 - - 2.22

27-10-83 135 17 200 0 61 7 430 28 7.5 - - 2.76

2-11-83 121 6 150 0.04 12 22 275 25 7.8 - - 4.1

13-1-84 166 12 280 0.01 100 5 550 - 7.6 - - 1.39

13-1-84 161 17 260 0.01 100 2 560 - 8 - - -

3-11-84 148 22 301 - 2.2 640 26 8.2 - - -

19-5-86 165 62 475 0.33 - 30 7.8 - - -

n 10 11 11 9 8 10 10 9 11 - - 7

mean 138 53.5 340.4 0.06 143.5 5.8 600.5 27.5 7.8 - - 1.7

median 135 24 301 0.01 85 2.1 550 26 7.8 - - 0.57

Monitoring Station: Mile 22 (actual measured at landfill site)

07-01 110 4 125 0.04 14 0.89 30 - 7.2 1.5 - -



December 2008 4.29

4.2.1.6.3 Water Use

The Belize River has played an important part in the historical

development of Belize. In the past this waterway was the main artery

connecting the coastal and western reaches of the country and although the

importance of this mode of transportation is now diminished, the river still

retains some importance in providing access to areas that are not accessible

by roads. In particular, the areas along the Belize River Valley. More

recently, the river has taken on another very important role. It functions as

a popular route for ecotourism tours, providing tourists the opportunity to

view some of the most scenic vistas in the country. The river also hosts the

annual La Ruta Maya River Challenge, one of the premier sporting events

in the country. In addition, the one tributary of the river (Macal) is being

tapped into for the production of hydroelectricity. The river provides the

main water source for all the major towns along its route including Belize

City. Table 4.7 shows major cities and towns water consumption.

Table: 4.7 Water Abstracted by BWSL Service Area, 2003 - 2005, ‘000 gals

City/Town 2003 2004 2005

Belize City 1,676,998 1,651,703 1,544,954

Belmopan City 250,844 261,930 267,509

Benque Viejo 75,876 74,853 54,053

Corozal 174,762 186,185 191,990

Dangriga 159,412 148,657 149,089

Orange Walk 155,142 164,354 179,303

Punta Gorda 75,510 75,987 65,492

San Ignacio 254,958 234,826 227,034

San Pedro 96,107 115,355 107,923

Total 2,919,609 2,913,850 2,787,347



December 2008 4.30

Belize City, Belmopan City, Benque Viejo and San Ignacio all obtain their

water from the Belize River and its tributaries. In 2005 above two million

gallons were used and was on a gradual decreasing trend mainly attributed

to increase efficiency combined with efforts by consumers to conserve

water. Water is also being used for irrigation and various industrial pursuits

which are not calculated in the above figure, because the water was not

drawn from the metered municipal supplies. The surface water resources of

Belize are divided into 6 major basins with the Belize River forming the

third basin. The general profile of water resources in this basin is one of

high hardness, and high Sulphates, alkalinity and BOD levels (Water

Resources Assessment for Belize, 1998). It is believed that these can be

attributed to the indiscriminate dumping of organic matter into the river as

well as the burning of “milpas” and domestic and agricultural waste and

runoffs. It is also believed that some of the pollution can be attributed to

cross border pollution sources (Water Resources Assessment for Belize,

1998). The drainage system over the Mile 22 landfill site is decidedly

towards the east, with the available evidence suggesting that the main flow

is sequestered in the Cox Creek Drainage System which along with

Mucklehany Creek drains into Mussel Creek which in turn drains into the

Belize River upstream of Double Run Pumping Station. Mussel Creek and

its tributaries have been described as one of the most pristine and prolific

wetland ecosystem in Belize (Hunt and Tamarack). There have been

several proposals to declare this entire drainage area a protected area

especially for the protection of waterfowls and crocodiles (ibid). During the

dry season, the entire water system is heavily fished by residents along this

stretch of the Western Highway and by villagers of the communities near

Mussel Creek. Many of them are fishing for commercial purposes.

Recently, conflicts have arisen between local residents and fishermen from



December 2008 4.31

outside the area over the use of these resources. To date very little of this

water is used for human consumption, agricultural or industrial purposes.

Within the landfill project site the streams are too small and seasonal in

nature to support any substantial water demand.

4.2.1.6.4 Drainage in the Project Area

As previously mentioned the flow of surface water from the areas

immediately around the project site is eastward and towards the Belize

River Drainage System notwithstanding the watersheds of Belize Map

which puts this entire area within the Sibun River Drainage Basin. The site

lies on a high ridge with the main flow of water being carried on the

northern and southern slopes. Along the western and northern slopes the

water is carried along a drainage slope with gradients of 2-5% from which

it enters the numerous on-site erosion channels that has formed as a result

of the quarrying activity Along the eastern and southern slope the water

follows a less direct route but again the general direction of the drainage is

towards the east. Surface drainage from these slopes is collected in erosion

channels and collected in two streams. The first stream carries the bulk of

the surface drainage from the proposed site being situated immediately to

the bottom of the steepest portion of the ridge. This stream flows in a SW

to NE direction. It is about 2.5m wide and 2m deep and has numerous

sandbars which have resulted from the deposition of eroded sand and

gravel from the quarry site. This stream is seasonal in its flow patterns.

Evidence indicates a complete drying out, at least during the latter parts of

the dry season. In the assessments conducted at the site in July, 2001, all

streams at the site showed very low flow with many instances of ponding

observed. It should be noted, however, that rainfall for this period was also

below average. This stream is joined along the eastern boundary of the

proposed site by another major stream flowing from the NW to SE. This



December 2008 4.32

stream also shows signs of heavy deposition of sediments washed from the

site and carries most of the water from the eastern and northeastern flanks.

Shortly after converging, the stream flows into a low thicket area where it

breaks up into a swampy marsh, partly reconfiguring before crossing the

existing access road. About 2 km east of the site the stream enters a thicket

nurtured by water flowing from the area south of the site. This water course

eventually drains into Cox Creek. Further to the south about 2 km from the

landfill site along the Mile 24 existing access road, is another creek, which

also flows in a west to east direction. This creek collects surface drainage

from the remainder of the southern slope and from the outlying pine

orchard savannah areas to the south. Because this creek serves a larger

drainage area, it is bigger than the other two creeks found on the site. Over

time, the creek has supported a thicket type broadleaf forest along its

banks. This creek will receive the bulk of the surface water runoff from

areas surrounding the waste disposal facility.

In summary it is very important that contaminated water does not leave the

landfill site given the importance of the Belize River Drainage system and

its tributaries to the national economy and to conservation purposes in

general. This water system is heavily drawn upon for domestic, agricultural

and industrial consumption and of late has become an important icon of the

tourism industry and recreational endeavours in general. The tributaries of

the Belize River, near the project site are well known wetland areas, and

have long been regarded as among the most pristine and prolific in Belize,

as well as being recognized as an important gap within the “National

Protected Areas Management System”. These wetlands are now being

heavily exploited for their fishery resource often for commercial purposes

and it is believed on an unsustainable basis. The footprint of the landfill is

totally within one drainage basin. The surface water systems of the

proposed landfill are to be designed to handle the entire basin shown on



December 2008 4.33

Figure 3.4. Surface drainage from the landfill site is generally towards the

east, however these drainage patterns once clear of the landfill site, are

diverted towards the west by drainage systems coming from the south of

the Western Highway and flowing northwest and west.

4.2.1.7 Ground Water and Use

All work, and the subsequent interpretation, has followed the intent and the spirit

of World Bank (Rushbrook and Pugh, 1999) regarding the approaches, methods

and technical resources available in middle and lower income countries with

respect to landfill ground water investigations. Specifically, it was recognized that:

“Most existing guides on sanitary landfill focus on technologies and practices most

suited to the conditions and regulations found in higher-income countries. These

are often based on attaining extremely high levels of protection for aquifers,

incorporating aesthetic concerns, high levels of leachate treatment, and controls to

assure low noise and low gaseous emissions. The immediate adoption of some of

these technologies and practices are beyond the technical and financial resources

available in many middle-and lower-income countries”. “… A common theme

through the Guide is the emphasis on the practical ways landfills can evolve, as

resources and confidence can increase, from open dumps to “controlled” dumps to

“engineered” landfills and perhaps, one day, to sanitary landfills…” Belize is most

certainly in the early staged of the “evolution” of their landfill.

A detailed Hydrogeologic Report is presented in Appendix F of this document.

Hydrogeologic data quoted in work conducted southwest of the project site (Jih

Chan Project). Miller and Miller, 1995 indicated that the underground aquifer in

the region is in the deep limestone layer. This work suggests that productive wells

may need to be drilled 60 or more meters below the surface to provide a year-

round supply of good quality water. There are three wells in the general area of the

proposed landfill site which provide some information on groundwater resources.



December 2008 4.34

Unfortunately, because of the remote location of the site and low population

density of the surrounding area, a closer sampling site could not be identified and

therefore, the extrapolation runs the risk of being conjectural. There is an active

well within about (10 km) of the landfill site, situated at the Tropical Education

Centre. The depth to water is about 12 m below the surface. The well at Jih Chan,

about 4 Km to the southwest is completed in a sand lens above the limestone

bedrock. Another wall at Gracy Rock above 10 Km to the southeast is completed

at depth into the limestone. All three observation wells on site initially did not

show water to the maximum drilling depth of 15 m. The fact that dry conditions

were encountered until 15m depth, attests to the low hydraulic conductivity of the

clay materials. After a period of time, the observation wells indicated some ground

water at a level of 4 to 6 m below surface. Based on this information, it is evident

that the groundwater under pressure in the limestone might be encountered below

15 m, relative to the lower landfill elevations.

Summary:

It is evident that the groundwater under pressure in the limestone would be

encountered at some depth greater than 15 m below surface, relative to the landfill

lowest elevations. Above this, there are thick layers of clay material of

considerably low hydraulic conductivity. Artificial liners would not appear to be

necessary at this site, which appears to be an excellent one from a groundwater

perspective. It is extremely unlikely that groundwater or any local wells would be

affected by the development and operation of the landfill.



December 2008 4.35

4.2.1.8 Climate and Meteorology

4.2.1.8.1 Climate

Belize is situated in the outer tropics or sub-tropical geographic belt. Mean

monthly minimum temperatures range from 16-17 degrees in winter, to 24-25

degrees in summer, with mean monthly maximum ranging from 28 degrees in

winter to 32-33 degrees in summer (Hartshorn et al., 1984). Temperatures are

cooler in the mountains, while along the coast the offshore breezes bring moderate

temperatures. Seasonal effects are greatest in the drier central and northern

regions. In the area of the proposed Mile 22 landfill (17o22’N x 88

o33’W) and in

Belize in general, the predominant winds are from the east, i.e., from ENE to SE .

In this region of Belize, the wet season is from June to December, with a short dry

spell in August, and a dry season from January through May (see Table 4.8).

While prevailing winds are easterly, in the cooler months (October to April) winds

from the N and NW, affect the country and are the dominant weather feature

during this time. These winds called “Northers” are pushed down from the north

by cold arctic air masses. Northers generally follow a cycle entering the country

from the NW and N and bringing cool dry air masses. Often times after the

Northers has passed over, the wind shifts to the NE and these are often associated

with cool and wet weather, indeed most of the rainfall occurring in these months

can be attributed to the influence of these weather systems. Tropical storms and

hurricanes also affect Belize, resulting in strong winds, heavy rainfall and flooding

(see Figure 4.2). Although only 5% of cyclones recorded in the tropical Atlantic

Ocean reached Belize between 1886 and 1978, the country has had a history of

devastating encounters with tropical cyclones (Hartshorn et al., 1984) .



December 2008 4.36

Table 4.8 Climatological Data, 1999 – 2003



December 2008 4.37

Fig. 4.2 Flood Risk Map of Belize



December 2008 4.38

4.2.1.8.2 Wind

Although detailed wind data does not exist for the proposed landfill site, there is

data for the Philip Goldson International Airport located near Belize City. Monthly

wind data from the Airport from 1961 to 1996 shows that wind direction is

predominantly from the east and to a lesser extent the southeast, with some

seasonal winds from the north, northeast and northwest. Relatively rarely do winds

blow from the west, southwest or south, and when they do it usually means

adverse weather conditions. The wind speed is normally between 1 and 12 knots,

with still conditions being reported 18% of the time at the airport location. The

mean annual wind speed was assessed as 4.8 knots. Being some 20 miles (32 km)

inland, the wind conditions at the proposed landfill site may differ somewhat from

the above data, but the directional data should not be significantly different except

at nights when the wind direction generally changes and the sea breeze is replaced

by a land breeze. This phenomenon is especially pronounced during the cooler

months and is caused by the rapid cooling of the land at night. The associated

temperature difference is more pronounced as one moves further away from the

coast.

4.2.1.8.3 Rainfall

Rainfall data are given in Figure 4.3 for various locations in Belize including the

Belize International Airport. Figure 4.4 gives a summary of rainfall statistics for

the Belize International Airport , and the country average annual rainfall showing

that in 2003 Belize experienced low rainfall with the average rainfall being

approximately 1,692-2,134 mm rainfall. Figure 4. 5 shows the isohytes map for

Belize showing the project area as receiving approximately 60 inches (1524 mm) -

80 inches (2032 mm) of rainfall. The 1/100 year 24-h return storm event at Belize

Airport is 327 mm, while for Melinda (inland), the corresponding figure is 269

mm, and at Savanna it is 217 mm. The maximum 1/100 year 2-h return storm

event for Belize Airport (1983-1994) is 179.1 mm. The period from June to



December 2008 4.39

September is the definable tropical wet season although cold fronts induce

substantial rainfall into December.

Fig 4.3 Annual Rainfall by District, millimeters.



December 2008 4.40

Fig. 4.4 Annual Rainfall by Station and Country Average Rainfall, millimeters.



December 2008 4.41

Fig. 4.5 Mean Annual Isohytes (Rainfall) Map of Belize



December 2008 4.42

4.2.2 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT

4.2.2.1 Flora and Fauna

4.2.2.1.1 Flora and Fauna of Belize

Belize has an impressive assemblage of flora and fauna that has managed to

survive, thanks largely to the large chunks of the country that have been set aside

as protected areas. The country has as much biological diversity as any other

Mesoamerican country at similar altitudes and is aided in its conservation efforts

by the presence of extensive areas of relatively undisturbed habitats and its low

population levels. As of June 2000, the country had 58 protected areas under

designations of Forest Reserves, Private Reserves, Crown Reserves, Nature

Reserves, Natural Monuments, Wildlife Sanctuary, National Parks and Marine

Reserves. This gives a total area of 1.04 million ha., out of a total land area of 2.18

million ha. or 47.7% of the country excluding territorial waters. With the recent

declaration of additional protected areas this amount will have increased

accordingly. With the new emphasis on biological corridors, the strategic location

of the country on the “land bridge” connecting North and South America assumes

new importance. Indeed many of the plant species found in Belize have affinities

from both regions although a sizable portion are endemics including many species

found in the pine/orchard savannah habitats. Affinities to the Yucatecan and

Campechean botanical provinces are particularly strong for the northern region of

Belize which includes the project area (Standley and Record, 1936). In 1994 fully

79.0% of the country was under one of 12 broad categories of forest cover. During

the same period approximately 25,000 hectares were being lost annually, most of it

due to agricultural expansion. This represents 1.1% of the total land area of Belize

and although not large by regional standards still leaves no room for complacency.

Table 4.9 gives the approximate amount of forest cover for the different forest

classes (based on physiognomic and edaphic features) in mainland Belize in 1994.



December 2008 4.43

Table 4.9: Class of Forest cover for Mainland Belize in 1994

Forest class Area in

Hectares

Area in Squares

Kilometers

% of Total Land

Cover

Broadleaf Forest 1415496.4 14190 65.1

Open Broadleaf Forest 12000 120.4 0.6

Pine Forest 57482 576 2.6

Open Pine Forest 7289 73 0.3

Thicket and other Degenerated

Broadleaf Forest

84629 848.5 3.9

Herbaceous and Scrub 18812 188.6 0.9

Bamboo and Riparian

Vegetation

11499 115.3 0.5

Coastal Strand Vegetation 2477 24.9 0.1

Mangrove, Medium and Tall 7800.4 78 0.4

Mangrove Dwarf 2340 234.7 1.1

Saline Swamp Vegetation,

Palmetto and Mangrove

34401 345 1.6

Marsh Swamp 41860 419.6 1.9

Total Forest Area 1696085.8 17213.9 79.0

Source: Belize National Biodiversity Action Plan, 1998

Since some transformation of the landscape has taken place in period between

1994 and 2001, the information in the table should be treated as indicative. Many

of the forest types mentioned above can be easily broken down into sub-categories.

Nevertheless, the central premise stands that the country has remarkable botanical

diversity, and in its conservation efforts is operating from a position of strength

dealing with mostly intact ecosystems. On the basis of the Holdridge Life Zone

Classification System, the proposed landfill site is located near the transition zone

between Tropical Moist Forest and Subtropical Wet Forest life zones, which runs

along the coast, south of the Western Highway. Of the 3410 species of plants



December 2008 4.44

identified for Belize 57 are considered endangered representing about 1.7% of the

total amount (Belize National Biodiversity Action Plan, 1998).

Belize continues to offer refuge for a range of faunal species that are under

pressure or endangered in the neighboring countries. A distinct advantage favoring

the preservation of these species in the Belizean conservation context lies in the

fact that most of these species exist in a fully functional ecosystem. The country

has attracted considerable attention from international conservation organizations

for these attributes and because the country lies on established migration routes for

both neotropical and nearctic species which in the case of the latter are almost all

endangered. Table 4.10 presents the number of faunal species for Belize.

Table 4.10: Estimated Number of Faunal Species and Conservation Categories in

Belize in 1998.

Taxanomic

Category

Number of Native

Species

Number of

Endangered

Species

Endangered

Species as a % of

Total

Vertebrates

Mammals 163 52 31.9

Birds 571 81 14.2

Reptiles 121 - -

Amphibians 42 - -

Inland Fish 117 2 1.7

Invertebrates - - -

Mollusks 157 - -

Crustaceans 1 - -

Insects 10 - -

Odonate 176 - -

Butterflies 288 - -

Other 2 - -

Source: Belize National Biodiversity Action Plan, 1998



December 2008 4.45

4.2.2.1.2 Vegetation of the Study Area

Vegetation zones of the project area and surrounding areas are shown in Figure

4.1. As with most vegetation mapping exercise of this type the information given

is at best an approximation given that vegetation types are seldom homogenous

and are as a rule very complex and varied especially under tropical conditions. In

addition many forest types in this region look to outward appearances as

structurally similar but in reality differ markedly in species composition. For this

reason accurate vegetation maps are hard to come by, but the Revised Natural

Vegetation Map for Belize (Brokaw and Iremonger, 1996) has gained currency in

natural resource management circles as one of the most accurate. All descriptions

given in the following discussion are based on the authority of these maps and the

detailed ground truthing efforts of the field assessment team commissioned by this

study.

To better document the study area a series of quadrants were established over the

study site measuring 20m by 20m. These quadrants were placed at random

locations along lines running from the center of the site along a north, east, south

and west bearing but with particular attention to placement within distinguishable

forest types. All identifiable plant species within the quadrants were then recorded,

and shown on Table 4.11. The project site lies mainly within a vegetation

community type known as the “fire induced shrublands of the plains (Belize)” (see

Fig. 4.2). This general area of scrub forest applies to the project site and most of

the areas to the north, east and south of the site. Within this general area however

are stretches of broadleaf forest oasis along streams and clumps in low lying,

marshy areas. The western boundary of the site forms a part of the transitional

zone between the pine/orchard savannah region and the lowland broadleaf forest.

This forest type can be referred to as Lowland Broadleaf Wet Forest over Poor or

Sandy Soils sometimes referred to in local jargon as “broken ridge forest”. It forms

a conspicuous presence along the central ridge and the western boundary of the

site. Further to the west, the forest differentiates into Lowland Broadleaf Moist



December 2008 4.46

Evergreen Seasonal Forests Over limestone of the Central Eastern Variant but this

forest type does not occur on the project site.



December 2008 4.47

Fig.4.2 Wildfire Risk Map of Belize



December 2008 4.48

Table 4.11



December 2008 4.49

As previously mentioned most of the vegetation at the site belong to scrub or scrub

dominated communities. Plants within scrub communities are generally less than

5m tall and their collective canopy coverage do not normally exceed 30% of the

total land area. Many of them exhibit qualities of mesophytic species such as their

ability to withstand water stress and seasonal wildfires. Trees are mostly multi-

trunked and woody. Falling within the general definitions of scrubs are shrublands

which are defined as wider spaced scrubs where individual crowns are generally

not touching. Within these scrub communities are occasional thickets induced by

better year round access to moisture and which are generally defined as closer

spaced with many of the crown touching each other. At the site characteristic

species associated with these thickets are Palmetto (Acoelorrhaphe wrightii),

Black Poison Wood (Metopium brownii), White poison Wood (Sebastiana confusa

Lundell), Miconia spp and cockspur (Acacia spp). Besides these, there are the

seasonally waterlogged scrub with much Miconia spp., which are prevalent

throughout the site although only in small patches. In some patches up to 5 species

of miconia were observed usually in associations with Craboo (Brysonima

Crassifolia), Coco Plum (Chrysobalanus icaco) and Negrito (Simarouba glauca). In

the areas classified as Fire Induced Shrubland of the Plains the general description

is best given as grass dominated stretches with interludes of scrub patches some of

them merging and others existing as separate and distinct patches. Characteristic

tree species in this area are Palmetto(Acoelorrhaphe wrightii), Craboo(Brysonima

Crassifolia, Oak (Quercus Oleoides), Yaha (Curatella americana), Cocoplum

(Chrysobalanus icaco), Calabash(Crescentia cujete) and ferns in the understory.

Caribbean Pine (Pinus caribaea) is also associated with this vegetation type

although for most of the project area it does not occur in stands probably because

of prevailing unfavourable soil and water conditions but also because of past

logging activities and frequent and uncontrolled fires. At the project site, pines are

thicker and have better growth characteristic probably aided in regeneration by the

disturbed soil surface and access to the nutrients from the exposed subsoil layers

which are richer than the leached upper soil horizons.



December 2008 4.50

The Lowland Broadleaf Wet Forests over Poor or Sandy Soils typically occupy the

transitional areas between the pine savannah and the broadleaf forest proper. This

forest type occupies part of the ridge at the project site and the areas along the

site’s western boundary. The soils are typically sandy loam but along the edges of

streams and gullies they can be reddish brown clays and dotted with small pebbles.

Species typical for this area are Nargusta (Terminalia amazonia), Madre de Cacoa

(Gliricidia sepium), Polewood (xylopia frutescens), Billy Webb (Acosmium

Panamensis), Santa Maria (Calophyllum brasiliense), Miconia spp., Negrito

(Simarouba Glauca), Red Gumbolimbo (Bursera simaruba), Dumbcane

(Dieffenbachia sequina) and Cutting Grass (Scleria bracteates). The entire

ecosystem in this area except for the broadleaf forest areas has developed under

the influence of fires which run through this area on a yearly basis. Normally the

broadleaf forest are not affected by wildfires except along the fringes but in

exceptionally dry years which on average occur every 10 – 20 years wildfires are

known to run into broadleaf forest causing considerable damage. The forest types

occurring within the project area are well represented in Belize and most

importantly within the existing protected areas system. In addition, most of the

land in this area have marginal value for agriculture (Grade IV and V soils) and are

mainly used for residential purposes, gravel extraction, and small scale logging.

Despite their limited value for agriculture and forestry development these areas are

nevertheless important ecological domains. The pine savannahs and their

transitional areas are known to contain a high proportion of Belizean endemics

(Dwyer and Spellman, 1981) suggesting that many of these habitat types may be

unique to Belize or have very limited representation beyond our national

boundaries. In addition, although some of the species present may occur over a

large area their density in any of these locales may be extremely low.



December 2008 4.51

4.2.2.1.3 Wildlife of the Study Area

Since its return to the feral state, the area of the proposed Mile 22 landfill site has

become prime bird habitat and a favored nesting site for many species of birds

most notably the members of the flycatcher family. Larger mammals such as

ungulates and feline species are conspicuously absent but anecdotal evidence

suggest that they have a presence in respectable numbers in the broadleaf forest to

the west. During reconnaissance and field visits to the site in July, 2001, the study

team detected deer tracks and tapir droppings in the creek beds. Because of its

location at the edge of the Pine/Orchard Savannah near the transitional zone

entering the broadleaf forest, the proposed Mile 22 landfill site offers a variety of

feeding and nesting opportunities for a host of wildlife, especially birds. The

convenient foraging in the nearby hardwood forest, and the relative sanctity and

isolation of open forest for nesting in the scattered trees, safely out of the reach of

most predators, combine to provide wildlife with multiple advantages. The

transitional forest at the site is also more species rich in plants producing many

of the fruiting trees favored by birds. The open conditions are also ideal for birds,

which prey on insects which breed on the edges of the broadleaf forest. Previous

disturbance to the site may have actually increased the appeal of the site to some

species who subsequently moved in to colonize it, often at the expense of species

that are less tolerant to habitat disturbance. On one occasion, during a four hour

period, the study team counted 55 species of birds, all of them residents (consensus

was among all). It is believed that the total number of species would increase

during the overwintering period for Northern migrants and these would normally

contain a high proportion of endangered species. A large number of nesting sites

were also observed, in some instances registering as high as a dozen nest on some

trees in the higher ridge areas. A listing of the bird species identified is provided in

Table 4.12. Although of the parrot species only the White Fronted Parrot were



December 2008 4.52

seen during the field visits it is assumed that the site will also harbor the

endangered Yellow Headed Parrot. The open savannah areas with scattered pine

such as is typical at the Solid Waste Disposal Site are favored by this bird and their

absence may be attributable to their abandonment of the nesting area after the

fledglings have vacated their nest in late May and early June. This study made no

structured attempt to document other mammalian species in the area other than

opportunistic sightings and extrapolation from signs such as tracks, droppings etc.

According to loggers camped out at the site encounters with game species in the

nearby broadleaf forest were common. Specific mention was made of sightings of

Collared Peccaries, Brocket Deer, Pacas, White Tailed Deer and Nine Banded

Armadillo. At the site, the tracks of one White Tailed Deer and the droppings of a

Bairds Tapir were detected in the stream bed. It is believed that wildlife from the

nearby hardwood forest will come out especially at nights to browse on the burnt

savannah edges and to feed on the fruits of Craboo, Oak and Palmetto.

The absence of the large predators within the study area should not indicate their

absence from the region. Reports of jaguar depredation on cattle are common in

the Big Falls Ranch area and along the Burrel Boom/ Hattieville Road. The large

territory required by these animals would suggest that they may pass through this

area, en route to their main hunting grounds. In addition, during geologic testing,

an ant eater, two grey foxes and a paca were observed along the existing access

trail.



December 2008 4.53

Table 4.12



December 2008 4.54

The areas between miles 24-27 are considered an important link in the National

Biological Corridors Network providing an important link for species requiring

habitat linkages between the northern plains of Belize and the Maya Mountains

and Mountain Pine Ridge Massif. From an ecological viewpoint the Western

Highway can be regarded as an ecological barrier splitting the country into a

northern and southern zone along its mid section and being obstructive especially

to the movement of obligate terrestrial species. The recent proliferation and

expansion of settlements along all portions of this road has served to acerbate this

problem. The area between miles 24-27 was long regarded as one of the few

remaining and most promising corridor offering a relatively undisturbed area with

few large settlements. Recent events, most notably the planned construction of

large residential communities has changed much of this thinking but the idea

remains in vogue that a few managed areas at this location could still be viable

albeit at a reduced level than was originally planned. Besides its obvious

importance as a biological corridor route, the areas to the west and northwest

contain important wetlands that are of great importance to waterfowls and migrant

species and therefore are of great conservation concern. This waterway complex,

including Cox Lagoon and Creek, Mucklehany Lagoon and Creek and Mussel

Creek offers refuge to thriving populations of Morelets Crocodiles (Crocodylus

morelet) and wading birds. The waterways support abundant ichthyo fauna

including turtles and in this regard is one off the last remaining refuge for the

endangered Central American River Turtle (Dermatemys Maweii) the last member

of its family to survive anywhere in the world. ). The endangered Caribbean

manatee (Trichechus manatus) are also known to frequent these waters. An

additional (but often overlooked) role of these waterways is that they support the

food chains on which many other species rely for their survival. Several proposals

have been forwarded to have this area declared a protected area. These efforts

continue and are likely to intensify as the biological corridors network takes shape.

In the meantime this important watershed should be carefully monitored if for no



December 2008 4.55

other reason than for the important role it plays in controlling drainage from this

general area into the Belize River.

Summary:

The location of the proposed Regional sanitary Landfill at Mile 22 site is

predominantly in Pine/Orchard Savannah dominated by scrub vegetation,

supported on soils of marginal agricultural value and well represented within the

current protected areas network. Because parts of the area are heavily disturbed,

the site has little commercially useful timber resources and few conflicting land

uses. The site, however, is located next to a series of complex and fragile habitats

and supports a vibrant avifauna population located near the transitional zone

between the broadleaf and open forest ecosystems. The general area has been

proposed as a route for the proposed biological corridors complex linking the

northern and southern regions of Belize. On present evidence

the viability of this route is being seriously threatened by development and

although it may survive it is liable to be of a greatly diminished scale and

importance. The drainage area of this site support a complex wetland system that

offer sanctuary to many species of international conservation concern.

4.2.2.2 Sensitive Habitats

Although the site (within the national context) cannot be considered critical

habitat, it is close enough to influence other sites which fall into this category

mainly due to the drainage patterns emanating from the site. During the field

reconnaissance no particularly sensitive plants or animals were detected, and it is

highly unlikely that any will be discovered given the heavily disturbed condition

of parts of the site. The heavy concentration of nesting for avifauna species

particularly flycatchers is purely opportunistic and any displacement from this site



December 2008 4.56

(temporary or long term) should not threaten the viability of any of the species in

that area given the abundance of similar habitats in the surrounding regions.

Even though the site does not contain sensitive species or habitats per se it falls

within an area of conservation importance. Its location adjacent to a proposed

corridor route between miles 24-27 should be sufficient cause for its automatic

upgrade in importance as a conservation management area that allows easement to

wildlife by providing the necessary cover plus feeding and foraging opportunities.

Any development at the landfill site must take this very important consideration

into account. The maintenance of a treed buffer zone along the boundary of the

waste disposal site and along the boundaries of seasonal streams can create a

cordon sanitaire from visual and odor impacts while creating a corridor for the

movement of wildlife both during and after the operational phase. This final

configuration could be planned to fit in with the concept (i.e., gently sloping

savannah with some shrub cover, etc.). It is to be noted, in this respect, that even

during the operational life of the landfill project, only 15-20% of the site will be

used at any given time while the rest will remain undisturbed or reclaimed.

Whereas the site is not ecologically sensitive, because of its location and the

characteristic of its drainage systems, it can influence other sensitive areas along

its watershed which includes an important network of wetland areas. The utmost

diligence will have to be exercised to prevent contamination of these waterways

with untreated waste.

4.2.3 SOCIO-CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT

4.2.3.1 Past Use of Proposed Site and Historical Resources

4.2.3.1.1 Historical Resources

The potential for significant historical resources in the proximity of the

proposed Mile 22 sanitary landfill site is very low. The highly disturbed



December 2008 4.57

and exposed nature of portions of the site, the fact that the area has been

well covered in terms of reconnaissance surveys, with no structures or

artifacts being discovered and none being indicated on any current

archaeological map all support this finding. Historic resources of note were

located near Gracy Rock, about 12 km east of the landfill site (Mr. Brian

Woodye, Associate Director, Institute of Archaeology, pers. comm., 1999).

At that location, there are caves and evidence of settlement of Mayan

origin. Another site where historic artifacts have been found is on the Sibun

River, south of the proposed landfill site. Here, too, the articles found were

associated with a Mayan settlement area and with the existence of caves.

Anecdotal evidence suggest an additional site in the area of Cox Lagoon

about 7km. NW of the landfill site, but it is believed that these mounds

represented a minor ceremonial center. The Belize River is known to have

been a major trade route of the ancient Maya, and artefacts from their camp

sites are found all along and within the river. The region on the other side

of the Belize River WNW of the landfill site along Laboring Creek has

numerous Maya Mounds especially in an area locally referred to as Narras.

While it is not likely that any historic artifacts would be found at the site,

“mounds” containing Mayan cultural remains are sometimes found away

from caves, river routes and other indicators of high archaeological

potential. However, the site has been visited extensively by the project

team in the past half year without observations of any such remains.

An inspection by the IoA representative on August 1, 2001 indicted there

were no visible presence of cultural material in the project area. The

disturbed area also indicated that there are no sub surface features. A

written report was forwarded to the Department of the Environment in

Belmopan and is included as Appendix I to this report. Notwithstanding the

low probability of finding articles of historical interest, in the unlikely

event that such items were to be uncovered during site preparation or



December 2008 4.58

construction, the operators are advised to contact the Institute of

Archaeology (Belmopan). The Institute can then assess the importance of

the material and provide direction in terms of collection or preservation of

the material.

4.2.3.1.2 Past Uses of the Proposed Landfill Site

While any use of the proposed site in the Archaic period would have been

ephemeral, in the modern era there is much evidence of use. Portions of the

site was first opened about 20-30 years ago to provide ballast for the

construction of the Western Highway. The materials at the site are suitable

for the purpose since they contain a high proportion of gravel, which is

much favored by road builders. It appears that the site eventually became

one of the main gravel pits along this stretch of the highway judging from

the degree and extent of the excavation. The remoteness and generally

good accessibility of the site has attracted other activities of a less

reputable nature. At least 1 vehicle has been scrapped near the site by

criminals and another burnt. During the field studies loggers operating NW

of the area were using this site as a temporary camping grounds.

4.2.3.2 Land Use and Demography of Surrounding Neighbourhoods

The sparse settlement patterns along this stretch of the Western Highway is a good

indicator of the limited agricultural potential of the soils in this area. In the past the

economy was based on agriculture and forestry and settlement patterns often

reflected opportunities to pursue these endeavors. With the diversification of the

economy away from agriculture into industry and services, these areas are being

looked at again as potential sites for residential development. Notwithstanding

this, considerable stretches of lands in this area are still uninhabited. Most of this

land is being held by a few large land owners many of whom have plans for



December 2008 4.59

residential communities in their development planning prospectus. Most notable in

this regard are Ramon Development Ltd., Olympic Development Ltd., Black

Orchid Gardens (ABI), Jih Chan and , Mahogany Heights (See figure 3.6

showing a survey map of proposed development). The nearest dwellings are

located along the Western Highway about 5 km SE of the site. In this tiny enclave

3 households were identified; 2 on the north side of the road and 1 on the south

side. Apart from small home gardens the residents do not engage in farming and

indeed the surrounding swampy and infertile landscape (grade IV to V agricultural

land) offers little opportunities to pursue careers along this line. Jih Chan is the

only sizable residential community existing near the landfill site. It is estimated

that approximately !75 persons live at this community. This development is

located about 4.5 km SW of the proposed Mile 22 Sanitary Landfill Site. It has

many of the structures normally associated with an established community

including roads, drainage, potable water and electricity. The community also has a

store and there is some agriculture, mainly dedicated to vegetable production.

4.2.3.3 Planned Development Activities

The Jih Chan Development was supposed to encompass lands on both sides of the

Western Highway at mile 25. This development was projected to have a

population of about 76,000 people on completion and would have come replete

with shopping centers, retail outlets, light industry, landfill, parks etc. To date only

a small development has taken place on the lands to the north of the highway. A

total of 35 houses have been built with no new one occurring for the past five

years. Ramon Development has property that includes the SW half of the proposed

landfill site and extends to the southern side of the Western Highway bordering on

the Sibun River. The company proposes to establish a residential community with

a projected population of 18,000 persons. Presently all of this land except for a

small portion along the Sibun River lies in an undeveloped and natural state.



December 2008 4.60

The property of Olympic Development Ltd occupies the northeastern portion of

the property. This property and the nearby ABI property are also proposed for

residential development but in their current condition are totally undeveloped.

The new residential development at mile 31 Western Highway, known as

Mahogany Heights, has changed the regional demographics somewhat. The town

was supposed to have a population of 20,000 persons but only a fraction of this

amount actually reside here. All the proposed services and amenities of the site

have not come to fruition. Development to date has been limited to approximately

350 residential dwellings as well as streets and drainage, however, little else of

associated infrastructure has been provided. All existing and proposed

communities in this area stand to benefit from the close proximity of the proposed

landfill site. The provision of adequate waste disposal facility has been a stated

concern off all developers in the area. In addition, the construction of one large site

will offer economics of scale over several small sites for each development. The

location of the facility near these developments will cut transportation cost for

waste disposal, while encouraging a general cleanup of the area by reducing

incidences of illegal dumping. In addition some of the developers may benefit

from the upgrading of the entrance road to the landfill site since it will facilitate

entrance onto their property.

4.2.3.4 Other Important Developments

Big Falls Ranch situated NW of the site is a large property that was in previous

years a center for rice cultivation and processing in the region. The main produce

is now beef cattle but the owners had indicated an interest in resuming rice

cultivation (pers. comm.) at some future date. The farm maintains a small staff and

is about 14 km from the site. Entrance to the farm is located a short distance to the

west of the present entrance to the landfill site.



December 2008 4.61

4.2.3.5 Public Sensitivity and Potential Concerns

4.2.3.5.1 Previous Contacts with Stakeholders

Many of the concerns previously expressed in Public Meetings for the

other site are still valid for the Mile 22 Sanitary Landfill Site, however

their effects are strongly mitigated against by the general remoteness of the

facility from human habitation or facilities. Mitigation measures will also

be put in place at the landfill site to ensure that no adverse environmental

affect arise as a result of the placement of this facility at the proposed

location. The adjacent stakeholders were invited to a meeting on Jun 1,

2001 and appraised of the project. Minutes of the Stakeholder Meeting are

presented in Appendix D. In due course of time notices were placed in the

print media informing all members of the public about the project and

invited their inputs and suggestions, as required under the EIA regulations.

The consultations had specifically targeted the local stakeholders whose

main concerns were centered on the following issues:

Surface and Ground Water Quality

Several stakeholders expressed concern that the proposed landfill might

lead to contamination of surface water and ground water, either by surface

runoff coming into contact with the waste or by leachate entering the

surface water. It was feared that contaminated surface water could reach

the Belize River via the network of creeks. Another concern was in the

susceptibility of the area to flooding, which could cause the holding ponds

to overflow in a heavy rainfall period, again posing a threat to the Belize

River.



December 2008 4.62

4.2.3.5.2 Community Participation and Benefits

Stakeholders expressed a desire to be involved in the waste management

project. Specifically, it was suggested in this EIA that they be involved in

the ongoing monitoring during the operations. In this way, these

stakeholders could act as an additional and objective source. This could be

integrated with on-site monitoring of surface water runoff, ground water

and leachate, to develop an ongoing picture of water quality trends, and

serve as an early warning system for any changes that might result from the

waste management program. It is recommended that there should be an

open relationship between stakeholders and planners in the design of the

waste disposal facility. In addition, there is the need for a training program

for those involved in the monitoring program. Other benefits to the

communities will be in the form of paying jobs, which could include their

involvement in the collection of solid waste that exists along roads and

other unauthorized dump sites, once the disposal system has been set up.

This approach should also be adopted for the Mile 22 site also.

4.2.3.5.3 Project Economics

Stakeholders felt that the overall project economics of building a site in a

remote location should be presented as part of this exercise.

4.2.3.5.4 Advocacy Process

Stakeholders were aware that the advocacy process had caused the GOB to

pursue an EIA process for the Mile 22 site. Concern was raised with regard

to the group of stakeholders being given the same rights and abilities for

the Mile 22 site.



December 2008 4.63

4.2.3.5.5 Post Construction Operations

The concern over ongoing operations is a valid concern that not only

relates to Mile 22, but to the development of any landfill. The best design

concepts will not work during the operational life unless the site operator is

committed to execute the plan both during the operating life and during the

post-completion period. This is still a major issue with the proposed

Regional Sanitary Landfill at Mile 22 site and in fact could be a larger risk

to have an operator allow operations to deteriorate due to the remote

location of the site. In addition the length of the access road could

encourage illegal dumping along the 3.8 kilometer route.

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