COMANCO Supports Environmental Protection in Mississippi
COMANCO and Kemron Environmental Services Inc. were selected to assist with a major gypsum stack closure project at a Superfund Site in Mississippi. This gypsum stack closure project includes installing advanced geosynthetic systems designed to protect the surrounding ground and groundwater from harmful stormwater exposure.
The project plays a critical role in improving long-term environmental protection while helping safely manage stormwater runoff generated by the phosphate mining operation.
Phase I Closure System Installation
The first phase of the gypsum stack closure project was completed in 2023 under the leadership of Superintendent Carlos Garcia and his experienced crew. During this phase, COMANCO installed WaterShed Geo’s ClosureTurf System across the gypsum stack.
The closure system included:
- 50mil LLDPE Super Gripnet
- Engineered synthetic turf
- Grooming sand infill
- HydroBinder along the down drains
These materials were selected to provide erosion control, stormwater management, and long-term environmental protection for the closed gypsum stack system.
Stormwater Pond Construction Progress
Now that the gypsum stack closure work is complete, COMANCO crews are focusing on the construction of a nearly 58-acre stormwater collection pond located at the base of the stack.
This pond will store millions of gallons of stormwater runoff before treatment and processing. The pond system ties directly into the gypsum stack closure infrastructure to safely manage water onsite and reduce environmental risks.
To complete this portion of the project, COMANCO is installing AGRU 40mil textured LLDPE geomembrane throughout the pond system.
Concrete Anchor Trench and Geomembrane Installation
To connect the gypsum stack closure system to the stormwater pond, COMANCO constructed a concrete anchor trench that serves as both a ballast system and a secure connection point for the geomembrane liner.
This system prevents stormwater from passing beneath the liner while directing water safely into the pond for containment and management.
Because of the pond’s size and the amount of stormwater it receives, the installation process is divided into three sections. This phased approach allows crews to continue working safely while managing active water conditions onsite.
Before Thanksgiving, COMANCO and Kemron crews completed the first pond section, successfully installing approximately 563,000 square feet of textured LLDPE geomembrane.
Managing Severe Gulf Coast Weather Conditions
Working near the Gulf of Mexico presents ongoing weather-related challenges. Crews consistently battle severe storms, high winds, and changing site conditions while maintaining strict safety and quality standards.
Despite these demanding conditions, COMANCO continues making strong progress on the gypsum stack closure project through careful planning, experienced leadership, and a commitment to environmental excellence.
Long-Term Environmental and Cost Benefits
Once completed, this gypsum stack closure project is expected to save millions of dollars annually by reducing the need to process hazardous stormwater.
The completed containment system will improve environmental protection, reduce contamination risks, and provide long-term stormwater management for the phosphate mining operation.
COMANCO remains committed to delivering high-quality geosynthetic installation services and environmental containment solutions for complex projects throughout the United States.
Read more about COMANCO’s Geosynthetic Phosphate Solutions.
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4301 Sterling Commerce Dr, Plant City, FL 33566
(813) 988-8829 | www.comanco.com