Associated Press - November 10, 2009 3:34 PM ET

BURLEY, Idaho (AP) - Operators of a landfill near Burley are considering generating power using the methane gas now being emitted from the massive, southern Idaho garbage pile.

Southern Idaho Solid Waste is exploring building a methane-fueled power generator at the Milner Butte Landfill.

The operation currently has a methane gas collection system, and researchers are testing and tracking data on the landfill's rate of gas flow.

Environmental specialist Josh Bartlome says the collection system was required by new federal regulations. But the Times News reports that landfill operators are considering taking the new collection system to the next level - using the methane to generate power that can be sold to a utility.

So far, the landfill operated by Ada County is the only one in the state generating and selling power.

Information from: The Times-News, http://www.magicvalley.com

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