Officials insist they have a handle on the stench coming from a contentious composting plant.
Operators of the biosolids composting facility on Commonage Road told Vernon council Monday that operational changes have been implemented to reduce the odour negatively impacting nearby residents.
“The compost facility has had its challenges and we’re working very hard to address those issues,” said Don Degen, the City of Kelowna’s utility services manager.
The plant, which is owned by Vernon and Kelowna, takes sewer waste from both communities and turns it into Ogogrow fertilizer.
“Odour complaints have been a little higher this year than last year,” said Gordon, biosolids supervisor.
Among the original problems with the facility, which opened in 2006, were being over-capacity, drainage and having no filters to reduce odours.
However, design capacity issues were addressed this year.
Other actions have included reducing pile heights and improving mix ratios with hog fuel. Hauling trucks are being kept clean and the doors to the mix building are being closed.
“We also have a plan that gives us response protocols if we have an odour issue,” said Degen.
That includes being in contact with residents.
“Residents are attending advisory committee meetings and they’ve provided input. We’ve opened the door,” said Degen of trying to improve relations.
Vernon and Kelowna officials are also visiting neighbourhoods to monitor odour concerns.
“It was a still night and there was a faint woody smell, not an offensive smell,” said Shirley Koenig, Vernon’s operations manager, of a visit to Kekuli Estates.
Online odour monitoring has also been initiated.
“We know at all times what our odour levels are,” said Degen.
“It’s something we take very seriously. We’re working hard to fine-tune the process.”
