Yes. On January 8, 2002, the state's contractor completed construction of the protective clay caps and seeding for vegetation on the two landfills (a total of 66 acres). The project made use of approximately 400,000 cubic yards of clay from local sources.

Other site work completed during the last two years includes:

• Reshaping the surface grade on the landfills to improve the slopes for proper drainage
• Installing a fence around the entire site
• Planting by the Embarras Volunteer Stewards of a riparian corridor of native trees along the creek bank to protect the stream

Yes. It is important that the vegetation on the cap becomes firmly established to avoid erosion problems. Illinois EPA has committed to provide two years of limited oversight. This includes:

• Monitoring the cap for erosion and making necessary repairs
• Monitoring the vegetative cover
• Maintaining the fence and warning signs
• Performing prescribed burns on the prairie grass every two years.

Coles County has agreed to assist the state with monitoring the site regarding the integrity of the cap and fence, dumping, and trespassing. The Illinois EPA has posted signs at the site explaining that County Sheriff plans to arrest trespassers and the County States Attorney has agreed to prosecute them.

The Illinois Attorney General's Office (IAGO) or the County States Attorney have the authority to pursue cases against any person(s) who would damage work done by Illinois EPA and could threaten to pollute the environment or threaten human health.

After securing a $375,000 judgment from the Circuit Court, the IAGO served notice on the site owners/operators that the state would conduct work to remedy both landfill sites and seek repayment of monies spent. The state also has judgment liens filed against Larry McGrath in Coles County, which will continue to be renewed until all judgments against him are satisfied.