COMANCO is in the Final Phase of a Phosphate Gypsum Stack Closure, Showcasing Sustainable Solutions
COMANCO is approaching the finish line on a major environmental remediation effort involving a Phosphate Gyp Stack Closure. This ambitious undertaking is being completed using WatershedGeo’s advanced ClosureTurf® system – a high-performance closure solution designed to provide long-term environmental and maintenance benefits over traditional vegetative covers.
The project has been executed in three strategic phases: the closure of a 72-acre gyp stack, a 47-acre stormwater pond, and the final phase currently underway – a 48-acre Water Return Ditch (WRD) system. Under the leadership of Superintendent Carlos Garcia, COMANCO’s dedicated crew is making significant progress in the WRD South area, where they are completing liner installation and preparing for turf placement and sand ballast grooming.
Final Phase Nearing Completion
The third and final phase involves the installation of ClosureTurf in two large WRD areas. So far, 1,081,973 SF of AGRU’s 50 mil LLDPE Super Gripnet liner have been installed in the WRD South section, with 203,249 SF remaining – bringing liner installation to 84% completion. Turf installation is also progressing, with 825,138 SF already in place and 425,060 SF left to go, marking 66% overall turf installation completion.
Once work in the WRD South area concludes, efforts will shift to the WRD West area, where the team will install approximately 792,000 SF of ClosureTurf. Kemron, the project’s general contractor, will work with Air Pump USA to spray the sand ballast layer over the ClosureTurf. COMANCO will then groom the sand to a consistent thickness of 5/8 inches per WSG specifications. This layer provides both ballast and UV protection, ensuring the longevity of the ClosureTurf system.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite frequent high winds and heavy rainfall, Superintendent Carlos Garcia and his team have continued to demonstrate adaptability, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to safety. Their ability to remain on schedule despite weather delays is a testament to their problem-solving skills and strong work ethic.
A Smarter, Sustainable Closure Solution
One of the standout features of this project is the use of ClosureTurf – a low-maintenance alternative to traditional vegetative closure methods. Unlike grass-covered closures, ClosureTurf eliminates the need for ongoing mowing and maintenance across expansive areas, making it a cost-effective, long-term solution.
Beyond operational savings, the environmental impact of this project is significant. The aging gyp stack previously required millions in annual stormwater treatment costs. With ClosureTurf in place, the site will dramatically reduce these costs while preventing stormwater runoff from contaminating nearby ecosystems.
Engineering Environmental Solutions
This project clearly demonstrates how innovative engineering and forward-thinking materials can come together to deliver sustainable results. COMANCO is proud to lead the way in responsible closure practices, offering long-lasting benefits to clients and the environment.
Interested in learning how COMANCO can deliver sustainable closure solutions for your next project? Contact us today to explore our turnkey environmental services.
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COMANCO is an environmental, commercial, and civil construction company specializing in constructing containment facilities.
Transform your site with trusted closure technology. From reducing stormwater costs to ensuring long-term durability, COMANCO delivers turnkey solutions tailored to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s goals. Schedule a consultation and discover how we can support your next project.
4301 Sterling Commerce Dr, Plant City, FL 33566
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