Summary:
Mr. Lloyd Wright, Certified Land Applier Supervisor, contacted contacted DWE about the concerns related to land application operations in Clarke County. A complainant had expressed concerns that biosolids were being tracked on a County road. On Monday, December 29, 2007, Mr. Lloyd visited the Timberlake farm site on Route 632 in Clarke County as a follow-up to the complaint. The land applier completed biosolids application on the farm on Thursday, December 27, 2007, and moved to another farm. Mr. Bill Wetherall, , the Clark County Local Monitor and Mr. Lloyd inspected the road on the 27th, after the last transport truck left the site and noted some dirt on the road from wet truck tires. The complaint call was received by the land applier on December 29, 2007, from Alison Teetor, Clarke County Planning Department. On Sunday, December 30, 2007 Mr. Wetherall inspected the road and reported that there was a small amount of mud on the road. Two rain events occurred between Thursday and Monday morning. Most of the mud was new and had been tracked on the road after biosolids operations had been completed at the site. Small tire vehicles had pulled off the road at the site and tracked new mud on the road. The Monday visit indicated that the road did not have any biosolids on it. Light dust could be observed on the road. A small amount of fresh mud had been placed on the road by a small tire vehicle. The gate to the site is now locked. No clean up is needed at the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations in Charles City County. The complainant expressed concerns about the number of trucks passing through a right of way on property near their home and that biosolids were being tracked on the road. Mr. Scott Haley visited the site on December 21, 2007 and observed that the land applier was no longer exiting the field using the right of way, but was using the same entrance route. There was some residual staining of the road surface, but no large pieces of material. The problem appeared to be caused by traveling through a muddy spot on the access road. The land applier discussed the problem with the complainant and agreed to spread gravel on the entrance right of way.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
DWE received an inquiry from a land applier concerning a complaint from a farmer in Fauquier County. The complainant inquired if their private well could be contaminated by land applied biosolids on the surrounding farm. The complainant had been diagnosed with Magnesium poisoning. The complainant recognized that it had been more than 5 years since any biosolids was applied and that the Magnesium content of the applied biosolids from nearby treatment facilities was low. The land application areas were located approximately 250 feet downslope of the well location. Mr. Haley referred the property owner to the Fauquier County Health Department to discuss the health concerns. The land applier was informed that no known health risk existed for well water contamination, but that misuse of the Magnesium Hydroxide medication “Milk of Magnesia,” could be a more likely problem than the well water being affected by biosolids application.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
A complainant contacted Maryland Environmental Service (MES) who contacted DWE about the concerns related to land application operations in Fauquier County. The complainant expressed concerns about the number of trucks passing their home and that biosolids were being tracked on the road. The land applier reported that the road was free of any particles of field material on the 10th and 11th following operations, however on the 11th there were stains on the road from the transport trucks. Field operations had been moved to the back of the farm which was accessed from another road. The land applier hired a flush truck to wash the stains from the road. The Fauquier County Health Department sent an Environmental Health Specialist to visit the site. The inspector confirmed that the road was in good condition.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
A complainant contacted the land applier who contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site in Fauquier County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors from the applied biosolids would aggravate an existing respiratory problem. The complainant requested that the set-back from their residence to the applied biosolids be increased. Mr. Haley contacted Mrs. Ford on Monday, 12/3/2007 and inspected the site the next day. Consistent with VDH protocol, he contacted the regional health director, Dr. David Compton, about her health concerns, and also Charles Shepherd, Environmental Health Manager. Mr. Haley called Mrs. Ford and left a message that she could have her doctor contact Dr. Compton. After discussing the matter with the land applier field personnel, it was decided that to stop operations near the end of the permitted site nearest to her residence at a distance of slightly greater than 150 yards (450 feet). The Mt. Crawford treatment works was the expected source of biosolids scheduled for land application on the site nearest to her residence. Biosolids from the DCWASA Blue Plains treatment works was scheduled for the same site. Mr. John Wayne Gallahan MES inspector, was at the site on 12/3/2007.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
Ms. Sheario Harris, local biosolids monitor for Cumberland County, contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations at a site in Cumberland County. that two loads where sent to the landfield on November 28, 2007, for excessive odor. Ms. Harris reported driving to a land application site on November 27, 2007. While approaching the site at approximately 10:00 a.m., she could smell an odor from about a half of a mile away. She spoke with the land applier supervisor as well as Pete Kilgore, MES inspector and it was agreed that the odor was very excessive. DCWAS was also contacted and made aware of the odor situation. There were a total of eight loads on the ground and two of which were sent back. The two sent back were very dark in color, contained what appeared to be a very small amount of lime and smelled like pure feces. Pete Kilgore checked the pH and obtained surface readings of 12.03, 12.05 and 12.07 and the load had been sitting for 3-4 hours. The land applier made arrangement for the two loads to be picked up and returned and requested two more delivered to replace them.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
Complainants contacted DWE expressing concerns related to stockpiling of biosolids products on a site in Bedford County. The complainants expressed concerns that odors originating from the stockpiled biosolids would exist for an extended period of time. The complainant requested that the stockpiles be removed. John Schofield inspected the reported site and found that a pile of biosolids pellets was located about 125 yards from Otterville Road along the edge of Iroquois Trail which is the easement across the farmer’s pasture to the Raines/Stevick property. The Iroquois Trail route has been improved with grading and gravel and fenced to form a driveway. The pile was located adjacent to the driveway and was about 11 feet in diameter and under 4 feet in height. It was reported to contain ~22 tons of pellets and limited attempts at spreading some of it had apparently occurred. There was a garden spreader parked there and material was distributed for about 100 feet extending from the pile. The material was charcoal gray in color and consisted of dry particles of about 3/32 inch in diameter. There was no odor. Mr. Schofield picked up a handful and could detect only the faintest smell but determined that it was not offensive. A representative of the permittee indicated that the end-user purchases quite a lot of the material and it does becomes odorous if wetted sufficiently. The observed material was very dry at the time of the inspection. The permittee was informed that stockpiling is not allowed under their D&M Permit and that if their customers deliberately continue to misuse the pellets, the end-user could be prohibited from receiving the material as a part of a permit enforcement action.
Inspection Report: N/A
Summary:
DWE received A complaint about strong odors near from a neighbor of a land application site on Slators Ford Road in Fluvanna County. The complainant expressed that biosolids from the Joint Meeting treatment works was applied to part of a field that was located near their house. Also Middlesex biosolids were applied to the field that did not have strong odors. Mr. Haley visited the site and observed that the wind was blowing in the direction of the residence. Odors were stronger than normal for the Joint Meeting biosolids. As this was a hayfield, Mr. Haley instructed the land application field crew to drag the field to the break up the material and to attempt to cover the biosolids with crop residue and a light layer of soil. The drag just had a new chain mat installed and was very effective in performing the required action after several passes across the area.
Inspection Report: 8/9/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land
application operations on a site in Fluvanna County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors originating from the applied biosolids would exist for an extended period of time. The complainant requested that the current set-back from their residence to the applied biosolids be maintained. The land applier verified that the land application operations at that particular identified site had ceased and that the established distance that existed between the operations area to the complainant’s residence would not be decreased if the site were to receive biosolids in the future.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/17/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site in Goochland County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors originating from the applied biosolids would exist for an extended period of time. The complainant requested that the current set-back from their residence to the applied biosolids be maintained. The land applier verified that the land application operations at the relatively remote site had ceased and that the established distance that existed between the operations area to the complainant’s residence would not be decreased if the site were to receive biosolids in the future.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/16/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations in Prince Edward County near poultry CAFOs. The complainant expressed concerns about the requirement that no biosolids could be applied on sites used for animal waste application and that posted notification signs could not be observed near the land application sites. The complainant also had contacted Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor. The complainant stated that poultry could access the the land application site and if the sites were being used for application of poutry litter then a prior approved nutrient management plan (NMP) would be mandatory for those sites. Mr. Scott Haley contacted DEQ to verify that the operations were in compliance with the permit. DEQ established that the biosolids applications were to pastureland that was included in an approved NMP, but had not received applications of poultry litter prior to land application of biosolids. The land applier and farmer reported that the required signs had been placed, but were removed by unknown persons and that poultry had not accessed the pasture. The land applier was reminded that the land application permit did require compliance with the approved NMP for these sites.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/8/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations in Prince Edward County near poultry CAFOs. The complainant expressed concerns about the requirement that soil tests should be taken prior to land application when lime stabilized biosolids are applied to soils exhibiting pH readings at the upper 6 level. The complainant also had contacted Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor concerning soil tests. The complainant stated that as the 2005 soil tests indicated that a number of fields on the Farm had high pH levels, additional soil pH tests should have been obtained before biosolids were applied to the sites. Mr. Scott Haley obtained a soil sample on the land application site. The lab analysis results established a pH of 6.4 for the subject land application area. The soil pH buffer of 6.8 indicates that an equivalent lime rate of 1.25 Tons/Acre would supply the necessary lime to meet the target soil pH of 6.8. Thus, the operations were in compliance with the permit. The land applier was reminded that proper soil sampling and analysis is to be performed prior to land application. If a land applier uses alkaline-stabilized biosolids they should have, at a minimum, a soil pH analysis for the field less than a year old prior to land application of the biosolids.
Inspection Report: Laboratory Test Results
Date of Complaint: 10/7/2007
Summary:
Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor received a complaint and contacted DWE concerning the call expressing concerns related to odors on Route 460 West of Farmville. The complainant suspected that the odors originated from biosolids land application operations, but could not identify a specific site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/22/2007
Summary:
DWE received a complaint related to a land application site located in Frederick County. Mr. Scott Haley talked with the complainant who inquired if their 180 foot deep private well could have be contaminated by land applied biosolids on the surrounding farm. The complainant had found that the well water stored for some time in the residence water storage tank possessed a strong odor and the system had to be chlorinated. Mr. Haley determined that the cause of the odor was that the water in the hot water tank was stagnant (no problem with the cold water). The complainant discovered that the residence has experienced the problem in the past, well before any biosolids was applied. The complainant now believed that the well was not affected by biosolids application.
Inspection Report:N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/20/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations in Franklin County. The complainant expressed concerns about the number of trucks passing their home which they calculated to be an inordinate number of loads to be applied to 70 acres the acreage reported to her as the total application area by the Roanoke STW biosolids coordinator. John Schofield contacted the land applier and determined that significantly more acreage was being used. In addition, some road repairs were being made in the area. Mr. Schofield informed Ms. Williams that he would check the transport route and provide a recommendation to the land applier concerning the routing of biosolids through the area.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/12/2007
Summary:
Mr. Scott Haley received a telephone call from the Westmoreland County Cooperative Extension Agent, Mr. Sam Johnson. Mr. Johnson stated that a Kinsale resident suspected that a buildup of “sludge” around his dock was caused by biosolids land application. Mr. Haley met Mr. Johnson, along with Mr. Will Horstman, biosolids monitor for Westmoreland County, and traveled to the site, located between Rt. 607 and Long Cove. A floating gelatinous mat of some unknown material was around three pilings of the owner’s dock. No one present had ever seen anything resembling the material.
No land application of biosolids had occurred in the Kinsale area recently, and none in the watershed for Long Cove.
Mr. Haley referred the owner to DEQ’s pollution response section, and also placed a call to Steve Morris, pollution response coordinator for DEQ’s Piedmont Regional office. A sample was obtained of the floating mass and was analyzed. The material contained non-pathogenic bacteria and may have originated from a discharge of boat waste.
Inspection Report: 9/12/2007
Date of Complaint: 8/28/2007
Summary:
Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor received a complaint from Susan Adams, with Charlotte County related to land application sites located in Charlotte County. Mr. Toombs, visited the site and determined that material identified as Class A Pathogen Control Pellets had been spread on several fields. No buffer restrictions had been marked on the site. The pellets had been covered with lime (photo attached). The pellets were delivered from the Cary, NC Wastewater Treatment Facility. Although no site specific permit was required, the Cary, NC Treatment Facility is required to have VDH approval and registration with VDACS in order to market biosolids pellets to Virginia users. Mr. Ed Hardy, with the North Carolina Department of Water Quality, verified that the sludge originated at the Cary, NC Wastewater Facility and is approved for land application in NC. Mr. Hardy was requested to inform the treatment facility that only Exceptional Quality Biosolids can be sold to the public in Virginia and that they must request VDH approval and seek VDACS Registration prior to marketing their biosolids pellets in Virginia.
Inspection Report: N/A - photograph
Date of Complaint: 8/27/2007
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a forestry site in Essex County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors from the applied biosolids would exist for an extended period of time. The complainant requested that the current set-back from their residence to the applied biosolids be maintained. Mr. Haley later inspected the land application operation and established that the distance that existed between the operations area to the complainant’s residence would not be decreased. The land applier was contacted and agreed that their operations should not be extended in front of the complainant’s residence.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/10/2007
Jim Echols with DCR contacted DWE concerning a call expressing concerns related to odors from land application operations on a site in Augusta County. A second complainant also contacted DWE. The biosolids source was reportedly from the Waynesboro STW and a number of trucks had passed the resident’s home several weeks prior to the resident’s complaint. The trucks delivered biosolids to the Hewitt Farm located in the Lyndhurst/Sherando Area of Augusta County. The Waynesboro STW reportedly had a digester upgrade recently and the delivered biosolids were from the first treated batch, which may have not been well treated [two stage anaerobic process] since it was noticeably more odorous than any previously digested sludge applied from this source. The land applier typically hauls 150,000 gallons per event, 6 times/year from the Waynesboro STW. The Waynesboro STW lab tested the digested biosolids and the results verified that the VSS reduction was in compliance with the required 38% reduction. The requested fecal coliform sample testing produced an MPN of 2500 cfu/gram. John Schofield inspected the site accompanied by the land applier. The land application site is very remote and relatively flat. Mr. Schofield did not detect strong odors and did not observe any signs of runoff. The complainants were notified of his findings.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/9/2007
DEQ NRO contacted DWE concerning a call expressing concerns related to odors from land application operations on a site in Orange County. The biosolids source was Alexandria digested biosolids and the field was spread several weeks prior to the resident’s complaint. The land applier was contacted and requested to maintain additional buffer distances during future operations.
Inspection Report: 8/10/2007
Date of Complaint: 8/9/2007
DWE received a complaint related to a land application site located in Prince George County. The complainant reported that several goats were grazing on a land application site several days after biosolids were last applied to the site. Mr. Scott Haley with DWE had previously inspected the land application site. Although the grazing of goats was not directly addressed in the Biosolids Use Regulations, the land applier was notified and agreed to maintain fence barriers during future operations. The land applier contacted the farmer and advised him that the goats had to be kept off the fields on which biosolids had been applied for 30 days following application. The farmer agreed that he would repair the fencing and install a new gate to comply with the regulations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/8/2007
DWE received A complaint about strong odors near from a neighbor of a land application site on Central Plains Road, close to Route 15 in Fluvanna County. The complainant expressed the belief that the land applied biosolids would adversely affect human health at a nearby school and campground. The complainant stated that several other families live near the land application area about 1 mile from a school and that there were young campers in the area. The complainant said that some of the residents have pulmonary problems and that the land application site is too close to the residences in that area. The complainant had also contacted Dr. Lilian Peaks, Regional Medical Director, who in turn contacted DWE. The land applier was contacted and reported that operations at the site were completed and that the land applier had moved to another site. The source for this site was from Middlesex, NJ, applied at a reduced rate of application. Although no significant odor was present at the sites, due to concerns about possible wet weather residual odors affecting the local schools, Mr. Haley directed the land applier to drag both sites to break up the biosolids and physically cover some of it with crop residue. The complainant requested that the land applier use heat dried pellets for the next application at the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/2/2007
Jake Haught, local biosolids monitor contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site in Orange County. He received a call from a neighbor inquiring about the buffer distance from his well. The required buffer was maintained from the well. However, a piece of field equipment was driven in the buffer and left particles of biosolids in the buffer. The land applier was contacted and requested to remove the biosolids particles and to maintain the required buffers during future operations. The field was spread several days prior to the resident’s inquiry. The dropped biosolids particles were dry and were removed from the buffer using hand rakes and silage forks.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/26/2007
Summary:
DWE received a complaint related to a land application site located in Prince George County. Mr. Scott Haley with DWE inspected the land application site and talked with the complainant who expressed the belief that their shallow private well could be contaminated by the land applied biosolids. Mr. Haley observed an area of the land application site that surface water could pond in during wet weather conditions and that may impact shallow ground water. The potential ponding area was close enough to the complainant’s well that an additional buffer from that part of the land application area to the resident’s well should be provided. The land applier was notified and agreed to maintain the increased buffer distance during future operations. A sample of the well water was obtained and forwarded to a laboratory for analytical testing. DWE will evaluate the results of the laboratory analyses and determine if any remedial actions are necessary.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/25/2007
Summary:
Mr. Reed Barrows, with the DEQ Piedmont Regional Office received a complaint related to a notice for a proposed land application site located in Buckingham County and referred the call to VDH. Mr. Scott Haley with DWE inspected the land application site and talked with a nearby business owner who expressed the belief that their private well could be contaminated by the land applied biosolids. Mr. Haley determined that an additional buffer from the land application area to the business location should be provided. The land applier was notified and agreed to maintain the increased buffer distance during future operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/16/2007
Summary:
The Secretary of Natural Resources received a complaint related to a land application site located in Buckingham County and referred the call to VDH. Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor was contacted by DWE and inspected the land application site and called the resident who expressed the belief that their private well could be contaminated by the land applied biosolids. Mr. Toombs, subsequently obtained a well water sample and forwarded it to a laboratory for analytical testing. DWE will evaluate the results of the laboratory analyses and determine if any remedial actions are necessary.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/11/2007
Summary:
The local health department received a complaint related to odors from transport trucks traveling through Greensville County and contacted DWE. Mr. Mike Ferguson, a member of the Greensville County Board of Supervisors complained about sewage treatment plant sludge being transported over Virginia State roads to its final destination in North Carolina. Reportedly, five to more than fifteen trucks may travel the roads of Virginia daily to the farm owned by the Town of Roanoke Rapids. Charles Swanson subsequently spoke with Ed Hardy with the State of North Carolina and made an official complaint. Mr. Hardy, with the North Carolina Department of Water Quality, verified that the sludge originates at the Roanoke Rapids Wastewater System and is approved for land application. The North Carolina Aquifer Protection Regional Office investigated this complaint and did not observe objectionable odors at the site. The North Carolina inspectors estimated that approximately one half of the pasture fields had received biosolids this year. Mr. Hardy will discuss the truck traffic issue with the Town of Roanoke Rapids, as the land application operations will likely continue.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/5/2007
Summary:
DWE received a message from the land applier concerning a complaint about strong odors from a neighbor of a land application site in Clarke County. The complainant’s residence was located at a distance of more than 300 feet from the edge of the land application site. The Maryland Environmental Service (MES) conducted field odor evaluations at the site and reviewed the pH readings taken on the lime stabilized biosolids. There was a slight odor present at the site, but all source pH readings indicated levels above 12. Mr. Al Razik with MES, discussed their findings with the complainant, who expressed the belief that the land applied biosolids contained toxics and would adversely affect human health.
Inspection Report: 4/3/2007
Date of Complaint: 7/2/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a forestry site in Essex County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors from the applied biosolids would aggravate an existing respiratory problem. The complainant requested that the set-back from their residence to the applied biosolids be increased. Mr. Haley inspected the land application operation and established that a distance of 800 feet existed between the operations area to the complainant’s residence. The land applier was contacted and agreed that their operations should not be extended into the field in front of the complainant’s residence.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/26/2007
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DWE contacted the land applier concerning land application of biosolids in Amelia County. The complainant had expressed concern that land application on a field near their home could affect existing health problems experienced by the complainant. The land applier reportedly had spread biosolids on fields that were near the complainant's residence. The local monitor, Ray York was contacted and reported that he had spoken with the complainant and subsequently inspected the proposed land application site near the complainant’s residence. Mr. York discussed the health protection provided by buffers with the complainant.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/14/2007
Summary:
Ms. Sheario Harris, local biosolids monitor contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site in Cumberland County. Ms. Harris stated that the Cumberland County Local Ordinance required that a 1000 foot set-back be maintained from applied biosolids to the boundries of specific developments or Village Areas, including the Kimberly Hills Development. Apparently, the buffer from a land application site on the Preston Lancaster Farm was less than 1000 feet from the entrance to the Kimberly Hills Development, although a buffer of more than 1000 feet would be maintained between the land application site boundary and the nearest residence. The land applier was contacted and reminded to maintain the required buffers to Village Areas during future operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/3/2007
Summary:
Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor received a complaint about a transport truck trailer reportedly parked in Farmville at the Pump & Pay Pantry on 3rd street just off Route 460. Mr. Toombs went to the store location and determined that the parked vehicle was a Seaport Trailer and was not a biosolids transport trailer. Mr. Toombs contacted the biosolids transport company, Top Gun and spoke with owner Norman Hammond. Mr. Hammond was sure that the parked vehicle was not one of his transport trailers. Mr. Toombs also checked with store clerk who stated that trailer was there when he came on duty. Mr. Toombs contacted the complainant and relayed information on the parked vehicle and that the mud on the outside of the trailer was not biosolids.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/1/2007
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to odors and speeding transport trucks at a land application site located in Prince Edward County. Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor inspected the land application site and called the resident who expressed the belief that due to their health problems, VDH had recommended and the land applier had agreed to, a one mile buffer around their residence from any land application operations. VDH had previously determined that no such buffer had been recommended. Mr. Toombs, determined that a low level of odor was present at the land application site and the wind direction was opposite to the location of the complainant’s residence more than 3 miles from the site. The land applier was contacted and instructed to remind transport truck drivers to obey speed limits and to drive carefully on the crooked roads that led to the land application site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/28/2007
Summary:
Complainant expressed concerns about apparent spillage of biosolids along Route 15 near the intersection with Route Willis Road. The spillage was thought to have resulted from spilled liquids from biosolids containers. Mr. Manuel Toombs, Regional Monitor, inspected the complaint site and found that some tracking of soils had occurred but that the material was not biosolids. The Land Applier was not working on the day that the complaint was made.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/15/2007
Summary:
Complainant expressed concerns about apparent spillage of liquids from containers transported from the Gladstone railroad siding site. The complainant forwarded several photographs of dried organic solids that had collected in a roadside drainage ditch along Route 60 near the intersection with Route 26. The solids were thought to have been the result of spilled liquids from biosolids containers. Mr. Robert Wingfield, Local Monitor, inspected the complaint site and samples of the material were obtained and forwarded to a laboratory for testing. The test results did provide an indication that the material was biosolids.
The Land Applier was notified that biosolids had apparently been spilled in liquids leaking from containers transported from the Gladstone Railroad Siding and that corrective action must be taken or enforcement actions would be pursued. However, the Land Applier had begun to apply straw and stay-dry to the biosolids container surfaces to absorb any free liquids. The Land Applier will continue to visually inspect containers before they leave the Gladstone siding and apply the necessary absorbent material to the containers.
Inspection Report: AppomatoxCoSpill2
Date of Complaint: 5/14/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted Scott Haley regarding the stockpiling of odorous material at a site in Middlesex County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were being stored and applied to an un-permitted site on that farm and that runoff from the application area would contaminate nearby water supplies. The Complainant requested that someone inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks existed. Mr. Haley inspected the situation with the farmer’s permission and determined that poultry litter, not biosolids, had been stockpiled and applied to the adjacent site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/12/2007
Summary:
Land Applier contacted DWE, related to a transport tractor-trailer carrying biosolids transported from the Gladstone siding that spilled excess water over the top of the container on to a Cit-Go convenience store parking lot in Bedford County. It has been confirmed by the video surveillance at the store that the driver was not stopping at the store, but just turning around in the parking lot at the intersection of Routes 24 & 122. It was noted that there was mostly liquid on the parking lot, and what was described as half of a shovel full of solids on the parking lot. John Schofield, was contacted and he advised to have the parking lot cleaned up. Lime and bleach were used at the scene to hose everything down. Subsequently, a complainant reported spillage of liquids on their automobile and road surface in Bedford County, which was said to be a health concern since material with a strong odor had to be washed from their car. As a result the land applier halted any further hauling of the Joint Meeting material from Gladstone until it could be properly transported without spillage. The land applier reported speaking with railroad officials evaluating various site management options at the Gladstone transfer operations, as well as having personnel evaluate remaining loads at the Gladstone siding for excess liquid and inspection of the integrity of the tarp systems. In addition, the Land Applier called the approved source officials to see if there has been any changes in the treatment process that may have caused the biosolids to react differently in shipment. The land Applier was perplexed as to why this issue has come about suddenly. Both field and rail transportation staff have reported that overall, the container tarping systems are in good shape. There have been some recent heavy rain events over the last couple of weeks in New Jersey, but obviously this is not the first time there have been heavy rains during the many years of this project.
The Land Applier began to apply straw and stay-dry to the loads that contained any water on container surfaces. All loads of the approved source were inspected and treated with the absorbent material and made ready for transport. Even though the Land Applier did not identify the source of the problem, it developed a solution that seemed safe to transport biosolids to the permitted sites without spillage of liquids. The Land Applier will continue to visually inspect containers before they leave the Gladstone siding and apply the necessary absorbent material to the containers.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/7/2007
Complainant expressed concerns about runoff from biosolids container transfer operations at the Gladstone railroad siding site in Nelson County. The complainant remained concerned about the flooding potential of the site and runoff from leaking containers. The complainant inquired about the need for a storm water general permit and was informed that DEQ would not require a permit for the railroad siding site.
Mr. Haley had previously identified leaking containers to EPIC and Synagro personnel who had indicated that EPIC would discontinue use of the COLTainers due to problems with the seals during cold weather. Many of the stored damaged containers were subsequently removed from the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/7/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application in Essex County. The complainant expressed concerns that the farmer had not planted a crop on a site that had received biosolids application more than 30 days prior to notifying DWE of their complaint. The Complainant requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that the farmer would plant a crop. Charles Swanson contacted the land applier and confirmed that more than a month had passed since biosolids had been applied to the site. Mr. Swanson asked about the farmer’s situation and requested that the land applier ensure that a crop would be planted on the site. If the farmer will be notified that if a crop is not planted then the site will be removed from the permit and the farmer prohibited from receiving biosolids in the future.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/7/2007
Summary:
DWE received a complaint related to land application sites located in Prince Edward County. A resident expressed the belief that cattle were grazing on a site that had recently received biosolids and that transport truck traffic was damaging a road (route 751) in that area. DWE contacted Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor who inspected the land application sites and the road. Mr. Toombs contacted the land applier and requested that transport truck traffic be routed so that they would not pass in front of the complainant’s home after leaving the land application sites. Mr. Toombs observed that no cattle were on the applied areas and that the road surface was not damaged by the transport vehicles.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/4/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site in Bedford County. The complainant expressed concerns that odors from the applied biosolids would aggravate an existing respiratory problem. The Complainant requested that the set-back from his residence to the applied biosolids be increased. John Schofield contacted Dr. Katherine Nichols, Regional Health Director, who recommended maintaining a minimum set-back buffer of 400 feet. Mr. Schofield contacted the land applier and it was agreed to that a buffer of 400 feet or more would be maintained between the complainant’s residence and the boundary where biosolids were applied.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/26/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations on a site with steep slopes in Bedford County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were being applied to slopes of more than 15%. The Complainant requested that DWE ensure that the operations were in compliance with the issued permit. John Schofield contacted the land applier and determined that site slopes for the ridge tops where biosolids were actually applied did comply with the permit restrictions.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/21/2007
Summary:
Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor received a complaint related to land application sites located in Prince Edward County. A resident expressed the belief that due to their health problems, VDH had recommended and the land applier had agreed to, a one mile buffer around their residence from any land application operations. VDH had previously determined that no such buffer had been recommended, but no land application operations had been scheduled for the farm in question at the time of the original complaint. Mr. Toombs, visited the complainant and determined that the complainant did not possess a written statement, either recommending, or agreeing to, a 1 mile buffer from their residence.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/20/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted DWE related to operations at a Field Storage Site in Essex County. Charlie Swanson contacted the complainant and was informed that the complainant claimed ownership of the access road to the storage site. The Complainant stated that transport trucks were damaging the access road and requested that operations cease. The land applier was contacted and stated that biosolids were being removed from the storage site and the trucks were traveling within a recognized right-of way and that the complainant was blocking that access road. The complainant was requested to stop obstructing the transport trucks so that the field storage could be emptied. The land applier was instructed to address the access road issues prior to further use of the field storage site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/16/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application operations in Madison County. The complainant expressed concerns that the road adjacent to their property had been damaged by transport truck traffic. The Complainant requested that the road be repaired so that there no environmental or public safety risks would remain. Scott Haley inspected the situation and determined that the operations were finished and VDOT was contacted to address the road problem. VDOT conducted additional grading and re-surfacing of the road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/12/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted Mr. Rick Cox, Environmental Health Manager, Three Rivers Health District, who referred him to DWE. The complainant expressed concerns about odors and that they thought biosolids were improperly applied to a site. The Complainant requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. Scott Haley inspected the situation and determined that Class A biosolids (heat dried pellets) had been applied to the site. He did not witness any storage piles of the pellets on the site. The odors were minimal on the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/12/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor, who then contacted DWE, related to operations at a land application site in Lunenburg County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were applied to a site and that cattle were allowed to graze the site within the 30 day restricted period. The Complainant requested that someone inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. Manuel Toombs, inspected the situation with the farmer’s permission and determined that poultry litter, not biosolids, had been applied to the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/3/2007
Summary:
DWE received A complaint about strong odors near from a neighbor of a land application site in Louisa County. The complainant expressed the belief that the land applied biosolids would adversely affect human health at a nearby campground. Mr. Charles Swanson traveled to the land application site. The site visit revealed that flags properly marked buffered areas of swales. Operations appeared normal and operations there appeared to have been completed in compliance with the permit. There was an ammonia odor present but it was located about one mile away from the campground on Route 637. Land application operations on sites closer to the campground may be restricted to the cold weather time periods.
Inspection Report: 4/3/2007
Date of Complaint: 3/28/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted DEQ-PRO, who then contacted DWE, related to operations at a land application site in Lancaster County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were applied to an un-permitted site on that farm. The Complainant requested that someone inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. Marshall Sebra, local biosolids monitor, inspected the situation with the farmer’s permission and determined that poultry litter, not biosolids, had been applied to the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/23/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted Marshall Sebra, local biosolids monitor, related to operations at a land application site in Lancaster County. The complainant stated that that a field near a schoolbus stop was receiving biosolids and strong odors were detected. The complainant cited certain health concerns including ill children. The complainant requested that operations cease and incorporation of the applied biosolids be required. Mr. Sebra determined that the odors at the site were somewhat stronger than normal. He anticipated that the odors would dissipate to a normal level over the upcoming weekend. If not, the land applier would be required to incorporate the surface applied biosolids. A minimum buffer of 400 feet from bus stop would be required for any future applications of biosolids. Subsequently, several piles of poultry litter were identified on an adjacent owner’s un-permitted field and apparently contributed to the detected odors.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/12-3/16/2007
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application sites located in Prince Edward County. A resident of the area expressed concern that a farm located just under one mile from their residence was scheduled to receive biosolids. The resident expressed the belief that they had been granted a one mile buffer from any land application operations. VDH determined that no such buffer had been granted to the resident, but no land application operations had been scheduled for the farm in question at the time of the complaint, although operations could be scheduled there in the Fall. Complainant also expressed concerns about a transport truck trailer reportedly parked overnight on a public road. Mr. Manuel Toombs, regional biosolids monitor determined that two empty truck trailers were parked on the property of the driver in Appomattox County. The land applier was contacted and the driver was required to begin leaving trailers overnight at the railroad siding in Gladstone.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/9/2007
Summary:
Complainants contacted Delgate Wittman’s office and the complaint was referred to DWE. The Complainants expressed concerns related to land application in Essex County. The complainants thought that biosolids were being improperly applied to a site. The Complainants requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. Scott Haley inspected the situation and determined that the operations were in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/6/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted DWE and Dr. Katherine Nichols, Regional Health Director, related to operations at a land application site in Bedford County. The complainant stated that that a field near their residence was receiving biosolids and strong odors were detected. The complainant cited certain health concerns including an ill child and a neighbor’s illness. The complainant requested that operations cease or an extended buffer be required from their residence. John Schofield with DWE determined that the current operations were more than one mile from the complainant’s residence. A minimum buffer of 400 feet from The complainant’s residence would be required for any future applications of biosolids.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/28/2007
Summary:
Complainant contacted Dr. Katherine Nichols, Regional Health Director, who then contacted DWE, related to operations at a land application site in Bedford County. The complainant stated that that a field adjacent to their residence was receiving biosolids. The complainant cited certain health concerns including sensitivity to odors and that they had become ill following prior applications of biosolids. The complainant requested an extended buffer from their residence. John Schofield with DWE and Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department determined that the current operations involved animal waste, not biosolids. A minimum buffer of 400 feet from The complainant’s residence would be required for any future applications of biosolids.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/26/2007
Summary:
Complainants contacted Dr. Katherine Nichols, Regional Health Director, who then contacted DWE, related to operations at a Field Storage Site in Bedford County. John Schofield with DWE and Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department had previously inspected the field storage operations on Otterville Road and found the operations to be in compliance with the required conditions for field storage. Subsequently, Mr. Schofield visited the site and talked directly with the complainants. The field storage access road had been covered with new gravel. There was no evidence of anything being tracked into Otterville road. There were odors noticeable when one was within 75 yards of the storage pad which was about 2/3 filled of its storage capacity. The land applier was planning to remove all biosolids as the weather permitted and discontinue use of the location for field storage. Mr. Schofield discussed health concerns with several residents. He later returned to inspect the biosolids removal operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/23/2007
Summary:
Complainants expressed concerns about runoff from biosolids container transfer operations at the Gladstone railroad siding site in Nelson County. The complainants remained concerned about the flooding potential of the site and runoff from leaking containers. DWE had previously contacted the land applier concerning the alleged storage of leaking containers along the railroad siding in the Gladstone area. A meeting between the land applier, the railway transport company, DWE and local officials was scheduled and held at the railroad siding. Scott Haley who had made several visits to the site attended the meeting. Following the meeting Mr. Haley again inspected the biosolids storage containers in order to evaluate the potential impacts of leakage and odors. The container covers on the few full containers on the ground at the site were observed to be in compliance with the permit requirements. Mr. Haley inspected a trainload of containers that had arrived recently and observed multiple containers that were leaking water (evidently from faulty seals).
The majority of the leaking containers were the “COLTainer” type, originally used to transport coal by Norfolk Southern. Leaking containers would result in road tracking as the containers were delivered to land application sites which would in violation of the land application permit.
Mr. Haley identified the leaking containers to EPIC and Synagro personnel and directed them to tighten the load binders used to secure the container doors. This action stopped leaking on some of the containers, while others continued to leak – evidence of faulty seals or damage to the doors of the containers. The procedure of cleaning and inspecting seals and containers for leaks was discussed. Mr. Haley indicated that seals must be checked and that any containers that were found to have problems must not be returned to use unless functioning properly. Mr. Iverson indicated that EPIC would discontinue use of the COLTainers due to problems with the seals during cold weather.
Inspection Report: 2/23/2007
Date of Complaint: 1/23/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to land application and odors in King & Queen County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were improperly applied to a site. The Complainant requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. Charles Swanson inspected the situation and determined that Class A biosolids had been applied to the site. The heat dried pellets had been spread on winter wheat growing in corn stubble from last fall. The clumping of the applied pellets were disturbing the caller. Mr. Swanson surmised that the pellets had been rained on and had gotten wet before spreading (the spreading method was not known as no farm equipment was being utilized at that time). He did not witness any storage piles of the pellets on the site. The odors were minimal on the site. The complainant subsequently contacted Mr. Rick Cox, Environmental Health Manager, Three Rivers Health District, who re-referred him to DWE.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/11/2007
Summary:
Complainants contacted DEQ-WCRO, who then contacted DWE, related to operations at a Field Storage Site in Bedford County. John Schofield with DWE and Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department had inspected the field storage operations on Otterville Road and found the operations to be in compliance with the required conditions. Subsequently, a complainant reported tracking of biosolids on the road surface to the Bedford County Health Department, which was said to be a health concern since a small child in a nearby residence had a pre-existing medical condition that could make them susceptible to infections. Mr. Philip Davis, Environmental Health Specialist with the Bedford County Health Department, following up on the health complaint, was driving on Otterville Road in Bedford County on January 16, 2007 and observed clumps of material along the road. Upon closer examination the material appeared to be biosolids removed from the field storage site located on the Wilkerson Farm property. He took several photographs of the material on the road surface. The following day, Mr. Davis observed a dump truck without a tarp over the material being hauled. The truck was traveling in a westerly direction and Mr. Davis was traveling East. The material was piled above the sides of the truck bed and some material was being dislodged by the motion of the vehicle and falling onto the roadway. He reversed his direction and followed the truck to the juncture of Otterville Road and State Route122. He took photographs of the transport vehicle. He reversed direction at Route 122 and resumed traveling east on Otterville Road. He encountered a second dump truck with a tarp over the material being hauled that had stopped along the roadway. The driver had stopped to remove the biosolids material that had fallen from the truck without a tarp, from the roadway with a shovel. He took photographs of the driver removing the material. The driver placed the shoveled material under the tarp on his truck. Based upon Mr. Davis’ observations an NOV was issued by VDH to the land applier. DEQ-WCRO also received a number of photographs depicting erosion of the field storage berms and sediment runoff and problems with transport truck traffic. Additional compliance/enforcement actions will be forthcoming.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/10/2007
Summary:
A complainant forwarded an e-mail to DEQ-OWP expressing concerns about runoff from biosolids container transfer operations at the Gladstone railroad siding site in Nelson County. Another complainant copied DWE on an e-mail concerning the biosolids container transfer at the same railroad siding site in Nelson County. The complainants were concerned about the flooding potential of the site and runoff from leaking containers. The second complainant also forwarded a number of photographs of containers at the site. DWE contacted the land applier concerning the alleged storage of leaking containers along the railroad siding in the Gladstone area. The land applier reported that the containers were placed on the ground prior to being transported from the railroad siding area to permitted land application sites, but only a few full containers remained on the ground for more than several hours. The vast majority of containers on the ground were stacks of empty containers waiting to be reloaded on rail cars. Scott Haley made several visits to the site and inspected the biosolids storage containers in order to evaluate the potential impacts of leakage and odors. The container covers on the few full containers on the ground at the site were observed to be in compliance with the permit requirements. The full containers did not show signs of leakage. A number of containers appeared to be damaged and were awaiting shipment to metal recycling centers. The site operations manager was requested to minimize the time that full containers remained on the ground at the railroad siding and to remove all containers from the site as quickly as possible.
Inspection Report: 1/25/2007
Date of Complaint: 1/3/2007
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to strong odors near the biosolids field storage site on the Wilkerson Farm in Bedford County. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids were applied to an un-permitted site on that farm. The Complainant requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. John Schofield inspected the situation with the farmer’s permission and determined that poultry litter, not biosolids, had been applied to the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/20/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant concerning container storage and transport at a railroad siding site in Nelson County, DWE contacted the land applier concerning alleged spillage on roads in the Gladstone area. The land applier reported that the containers were being transported from the railroad siding area near Gladstone, but very few empty containers actually passed through the village. John Schofield had previously traveled to the site and inspected the biosolids storage containers in order to evaluate the potential impacts of leakage and odors. The container covers on the few still at the site were observed to be in compliance with the permit requirements.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/13/2006
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to strong odors near Thaxton, Virginia. The complainant expressed concerns that they thought biosolids that were applied to a site had not been properly treated. The Complainant requested that DWE inspect the site and ensure that no environmental or public health risks would remain. John Schofield inspected the situation and determined that poultry litter not biosolids had been applied to the site.
Date of Complaint: 12/12/2006
Summary:
Complainants contacted the Local Health Department and DWE related to operations at a Field Storage Site in Bedford County. John Schofield with DWE and Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department contacted the complainant and inspected the field storage operations on Otterville Road. One complainant had reported tracking of biosolids on the road surface, but no excessive tracking of soil or biosolids was observed. Another complainant stated that odors were noticeable off the site, but no odors were observed along the access road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/26 - 11/14/2006
Summary:
Several complainants contacted DEQ and the District and Local Health Departments related to a land application operations and a Field Storage Site in Bedford County. The complainants expressed concerns about biosolids affecting both their health and the health of their horses and possible damage to water Quality. John Schofield with DWE and Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department contacted one of the complainants and inspected the land application operations. The land applier was requested to address the problem of providing additional buffers. DWE was contacted by a complainant expressing concerns about the field storage site on Otterville Road. The complainant requested assurances based on testing and monitoring, that the field storage operation would not pose any environmental or public health risks. The field storage site was visited by VDH staff together with land applier personnel. Certain operational restrictions were discussed and the land applier agreed to implement changes to the storage operation.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/26/2006
Summary:
A complainant contacted Ms. Melody Fowler, Environmental Health Supervisor, Spotsylvania County Health Department expressing concerns related to land application operations on sites located near their home in Spotsylvania County. The complainant expressed concerns that the operations could affect the health of children living in the residence. Scott Haley inspected the situation and the land applier reported that the land application operations were completed in that area. Mr. Haley determined that the closest application site was approximately 240 feet from the complainant’s home. The existing odors at the residence were minimal. MES field pH readings on the biosolids verified proper treatment. The complainant was advised to contact the District Health Director to discuss any illness concerns. The land applier agreed to provide additional buffer to the complainant’s home, for all future operations there, if VDH considered it necessary for health protection.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/24/2006
Summary:
A complainant contacted DWE expressing concerns related to a Field Storage Site in Essex County. The complainant expressed concerns that the field storage site had been properly closed. The complainant also expressed concerns that a road within their property had been eroded by transport truck traffic. The Complainant requested that the site and road be regarded so that there no environmental or public health risks would remain. Scott haley inspected the situation and the land applier was requested to address the problem. The land applier agreed to conduct additional site grading and replace trees and vegetation.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/20/2006
Summary:
A complainant contacted Delegate Barlow expressing concerns related to proposed land application operations in Surry County on a site across from their residence. The complainant expressed concerns that biosolids could be placed near a family cemetery. The complainant also expressed concerns that their shallow well could be impacted by runoff from the application site. The Complainant requested assurances based on testing and monitoring, that the land application operations would not pose any environmental or public health risks. The land applier was requested to address the problems for any future operations on that site. The site was visited by VDH staff and currently has not received biosolids.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/5/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, Kyle Winter of DEQ contacted VDH-DWE requesting information related to a land application operational site in Goochland County. The complainant expressed concerns about biosolids placed near the James River on Elk Island. Scott Haley contacted Mr. Winter and inspected the land application operations. He determined that the biosolids application was in compliance with permit requirements. However, temporary storage at the site may have exceeded the permit requirements. The land applier was requested to address the problem. The application area was buffered at approximately 50 feet from the river.
Inspection Report: 10/6/2006
Date of Complaint: 9/22/ - 10/4/2006
Summary:
A complainant contacted the District and Local Health Department requesting information related to a land application operation and a Field Storage Site in Bedford County. The complainant expressed concerns about biosolids placed near a creek crossing. Dan Richardson with the Bedford County Health Department contacted the complainant and inspected the land application operations. He determined that biosolids spillage near the creek crossing at the site was minimal. The land applier was requested to address the problem. The application area was buffered at approximately 50 feet from the creek bank. Mr. Richardson subsequently received a letter from a complainant expressing concerns about the field storage site on Otterville Road. The Complainant requested assurances based on testing and monitoring, that the field storage operation would not pose any environmental or public health risks. The field storage site was visited by VDH staff and is currently empty of any biosolids.
Inspection Reports:
a.) Temporary Storage
b.) Bedford County Letter
Date of Complaint: 9/11/ - 9/25/2006
Summary:
Several complainants contacted VDH-DWE and the land applier requesting information related to a Site in Fauquier County. The complainants expressed concerns about odor, truck traffic, health issues and the use of a disputed right-of-way access road. Scott Haley contacted several complainants and inspected the land application operations. He determined that odors at the site were minimal. Some tracking on Route 651 was observed and the land applier was requested to address the problem. Measurements of pH were taken of the lime treated biosolids and the readings exceeded a pH of 12.
Inspection Report: 9/25 & 27/2006
Date of Complaint: 8/24/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DEQ-SCRO, contacted VDH-DWE requesting information related to a railroad siding site in Amherst County, expressing concern about transport truck spillage problems. The complaint came from one of VDOT’s Environmental Monitors who observed odorous brown liquid, that appeared to come from underneath the tarp cover on one of the transport truck containers. The liquid spillage reportedly continued repeatedly as the driver shifted between gears or rounded a curve.
DEQ Inspectors went out to the Gladstone facility on 8-4-06 and observed no leaking containers at the rail siding. The DEQ staff inspected road surfaces near the hamlet of Bent Creek and found several places where it looked like dark colored liquid had been previously spilled on the roadways. DEQ staff visited the VDOT work trailer at David Creek and spoke to the project staff there. The VDOT staff reported that some trucks had regularly dropped liquid from the containers as the trucks passed through the work area.
DWE contacted the land applier concerning alleged spillage on roads in the Gladstone area. The land applier reported that the containers were being transported from the railroad siding area near Gladstone. Charlie Swanson had previously traveled to the site and inspected the numerous biosolids storage containers at the site in order to evaluate the potential impacts of runoff. He determined that liquid from precipitation had accumulated on the plastic tarp covers and drained off as the transport trucks changed speeds or direction. The container covers were observed to be in compliance with the permit requirements.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/1/2006
Summary:
VDH-DWE was contacted by Nottoway County concerning a complaint from a resident that biosolids had been improperly spread in a drainageway area. Charlie Swanson traveled to the site and inspected the land applied area in order to evaluate the potential impacts of runoff. He determined that all required buffers had been complied with in accordance with the permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/9/2006
Summary:
After receiving a local notice, a resident of Orange County expressed concern that land application on fields near their home would adversely affect the existing health problems of a minor relative in their care. Scott Haley subsequently inspected the proposed land application site and referred the complaint to the District Health Director, who subsequently recommended maintaining a 400 foot or more buffer from the resident’s property to the edge of the land application site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/1/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DEQ-PRO, contacted VDH-DWE requesting access to the site in order to obtain surface water samples. Charlie Swanson traveled to the site and accompanied the DEQ staff as they obtained the samples that would be tested in order to evaluate the potential impacts of runoff.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/6/2006
Summary:
A resident of Appomattox County expressed concern that land application on fields near their home would adversely affect their existing health problems. Biosolids had been applied to fields in that area in early June 2006. Robert Wingfield, Local Monitor, subsequently inspected the land application site. Scott Haley referred the complaint to the District Health Director.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/6/2006
Summary:
A resident of Franklin County expressed concern that land application on fields near their home had contaminated their 30 foot dug private well resulting in foul odors in the well water. John Schofield reported that he had spoken with the complainant and subsequently discussed well water testing procedures and treatment methods with the complainant. The area topography indicates that drainage from the land applied areas passes away from the complainant’s well. John concluded that the well water quality could be influenced by upslope drainage over a wide area and treatment would be needed to provide a safe water supply.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/28/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainants, DWE contacted the land applier concerning their upcoming plans to land apply biosolids in Amelia County. The complainants had expressed concern that land application on fields near their homes could contaminate private wells and affect existing health problems experienced by the complainants. The land applier reportedly planned to spread biosolids on fields that were away from the complainant's residence. The local monitor, Ray York was contacted and reported that he had spoken with the complainants and subsequently inspected the proposed land application sites near the complainant’s residence. Mr. York discussed well water and soil sampling and testing procedures with DWE and a monitoring plan was agreed to. Mr. York also discussed buffer issues with the land applier. One of the complainants identified a recurring problem with an infestation in their home of a pest identified as lesser mealworms. However, DWE had previously investigated the problem and could not establish any valid links to the land application of biosolids on nearby fields. Mr. York would look into this problem and discuss it with DWE.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/19/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation between the complainant and the Office of the Secretary of Natural Resources, DWE contacted the land applier concerning their upcoming plans to land apply biosolids in Prince Edward County. The complainant had expressed concern that land application on fields near their home could affect existing health problems experienced by the complainant. The land applier reportedly planned to only spread biosolids on fields that were well away from the complainant's residence - closest distances of 900 and 1000 feet respectively. The local monitor, Manuel Toombs was also contacted and reported that he had spoken with the complainant. The District Health Director, Dr. Kay Rankin, also spoke with the complainant about the reported health concerns.
Scott Haley and Mr. Toombs subsequently inspected the proposed land application sites. Mr. Haley identified certain drainage features that were not included on the original site approvals but would have to be buffered out from the land application sites. He also noted that the biosolids application rates would have to be adjusted in relation to past applications of poultry litter. Following a discussion of these issues with VDH, the land applier decided that they would postpone any land application on the farm sites near the complainant’s residence for the time being.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/14/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DWE contacted the land applier concerning alleged transport truck spillage problems that developed from trucks reportedly speeding into a sharp turn. The complainant expressed concern that the spillage actually landed on their property and that contamination could affect existing health problems experienced by the complainant and their family.
The land applier reported that the containers were being transported from the railroad siding area near Gladstone. Transport trucks had been using Route 60 and Route 26 as the primary hauling routes. The container handling yard supervisor was requested to check the transport routes in the Bent Creek area. He indicated that water on top of the tarps on the containers was being pumped to remove as much water from them as possible prior to leaving the rail yard. The yard supervisor talked with the complainant and checked the roadways but did not observe any biosolids on the road surface. This observation was confirmed by John Schofield upon driving past the complainant’s home. Thus the source of the spillage on the road near the complainant’s home was apparently due to accumulation of precipitation on the containers and biosolids were not leaking and actually causing the reported spillage. However, the truck drivers were requested to drive more slowly and carefully along Route 605. The complainant later reported that most truck drivers were driving carefully, but that a few continued to drive into the curve too fast and upon braking, spilled liquid on the road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/7/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DWE contacted the land applier concerning alleged runoff problems that developed from land application on the site in October 2005. After receiving word of a possible fish kill in a small pond across from the biosolids application site, Laura Schifflett (Frederick County Local Monitor) and representatives of the land applier met at the landowner’s home.
Upon inspection of the pond a few dead fish and a dead turtle were observed in the pond. The complainant’s pond is not very big, about 20 by 20 feet. It is also only about 4 feet deep at the deepest point. It appeared to have an oily sheen across the surface. The pond receives its water from a drainage ditch that extends to the road and on past to another pond on a gentle slope. The pond is approximately 450 feet from the culvert pipe. Biosolids were applied across the road, and a 100 foot buffer was observed from the road. Also, upslope another pond is located approximately 750 feet from the culvert pipe. Biosolids were spread all the way around that pond using a 50 foot buffer. There were no signs of an oily sheen, or any dead wildlife on or near that pond. Thus, the source of the contamination of the complainant’s pond was apparently not due to land application of biosolids nearly one year prior to the reported contamination.
Testing of the complainant’s pond water showed fairly low levels of dissolved oxygen and higher than normal biochemical oxygen demand.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/6/2006
Summary:
DWE received A complaint about strong odors near from a neighbor of a land application site in Louisa County. The complainant expressed the belief that the land applied biosolids would adversely affect human health. Mr. Charles Swanson traveled to the land application site. The site visit revealed that flags properly marked buffered areas of swales. Two spreaders were operating and a bush hog tractor was cutting the hay. Blue Plains biosolids were being delivered to the site. Operations appeared normal. The odors were monitored by the MES inspector as a “2” on their Nasal Ranger equipment, which is the equipment’s lowest reading. Two other fields were inspected that had already been spread and operations there appeared to have been completed in compliance with the permit.
Inspection Report: 6/6/2006
Date of Complaint: 6/1/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, DWE contacted the land applier concerning the identified operational problems that developed from land application on the site nearly one year ago. The complainant objected to the removal of a fence and that the site was not properly applied. The Land Applier was contacted and agreed to resolve the problems with the land owner.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/9/2006
Summary:
Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, Mr. William Maddox, DEQ-VRO, contacted VDH-DWE. John Schofield who had investigated a similar complaint in March, contacted the complainant. The complainant objects to the vast number of containers stored there and thinks Epic needs to relocate to a site that is remote from a populated community. She indicated that empty containers were stored in a flood plain and still have residual biosolids and when it rains, the smell afterward is unbearable. The parent company Synagro was contacted and requested to have the containers removed as soon as possible.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 05/08/2006
Summary:
VDH received several calls and e-mails related to scheduled land application operations in Campbell County. A Resident located approximately ½ mile from a permitted site expressed concern that the application of biosolids may adversely affect the health of a family member suffering from a serious illness. The complainant discussed these concerns with Dr. Katherine Nichols, Director of the Central Virginia Health District. The complainant also forwarded a letter from a physician concerning the health status of the family member. Dr. Nichols recommended delaying the land application operations. The permitted land applier was contacted by VDH and encouraged to discuss the situation with the complainant. Following a telephone conversation with the complainant, the land applier agreed to delay for a period of 12 months, any land application of biosolids on the permitted site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 05/02/2006
Summary:
VDH received several complaints related to land application operations in Bedford County. Residents located near permitted sites expressed concern about the application of biosolids to pasture land, reporting strong odors and buffer set-back violations. Mr. Charles Swanson was conducting routine inspections of the land application operations in the area during the time that the complaints were received by VDH. Mr. Swanson reported that odors he observed at the sites were minimal and that required buffers were being maintained. Apparently, the residents were misinformed about the required set-backs and believed that a 100 yard wide buffer was necessary around the application areas.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 04/28/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application operations in Franklin County. A member of the County Board of Supervisors expressed concern about the application of liquid biosolids to a pasture prior to a predicted rainfall event and biosolids transport trucks tracking a roadway near the application site. The County contacted John Schofield several days after the land application event. Mr. Schofield requested that the biosolids producer inspect the operational site and report their findings. The inspector reported that the situation had already been addressed and the roadway was relatively clear. VDH requested that the land applier update their operational plan to assure that road tracking would be minimized and promptly addressed and that liquid biosolids would not be spread prior to predicted significant precipitation events.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 04/25/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to scheduled land application operations in Prince Edward County. A resident of the area expressed concern about a permitted land application site, which had been scheduled to receive biosolids sometime in June. The resident reported that they had scheduled an outdoor family function at their home on June 15th. Cal Sawyer contacted the land applier who reported that there would not be any biosolids application on the site in question from one week prior to June 15th to June 16th. A letter stating that agreement was mailed to the complainant by VDH.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 04/19/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application operations in Louisa County. A resident of the area expressed concern about biosolids transport trucks arriving at land application sites in pre-dawn hours. Cal Sawyer contacted the land applier who reported that the situation had already been addressed with the transport truck company and there would not be any further pre-dawn biosolids deliveries to the Louisa County sites.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 04/07/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application operations in Caroline County. A resident of the area expressed concern about possible damage to a roadway adjacent to a land application site. Mr. Scott Haley traveled to Caroline County to respond to the complaint and determined that the roadway was in reasonable condition and that no biosolids had been spilled onto the roadway. However, The land applier had brought in approximately 10 truckloads of biosolids on the road, but had stopped using the road when someone complained to them about it. They had cleared an opening across the road from a logging deck to access two fields. When Mr. Haley arrived, the land applier had smoothed out the opening and was utilizing a different access to the land application sites.
Inspection Report: 04/07/2006
Inspection Image: 04/07/2006
Date of Complaint: 04/05/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application operations in Hanover County. A resident of the area expressed concern about possible tracking of biosolids onto a roadway adjacent to a land application site. Mr. Scott Haley traveled to Hanover County to respond to the complaint and determined that the spreading equipment, while operating, had come to close to the roadway and biosolids had been thrown onto the roadway. The land applier had utilized a broom tractor to sweep the biosolids from the roadway. A small amount of biosolids remained on the shoulder of the road between the road and the field, but would not pose any water quality concerns because the area drains to the field. VDH instructed the land applier to apply hydrated lime to the area, and this was completed the same day. Other buffers were in compliance with the regulations.
Inspection Report: 04/05/2006
Inspection Image: 04/05/2006
Date of Complaint: 04/04/2006
Summary:
VDH received a call from Mr. Bobby Wingfield, an employee of Appomattox County. Cattle had entered a site that was in the process of receiving land application of biosolids. Mr. Scott Haley spoke with Mr. Wingfield and Mr. Cheatham of Synagro and determined that cattle had been quickly removed to another location and there was no evidence that the cattle had been in contact with the biosolids applied on that site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/31/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Stafford County. A resident of the area expressed concern about odors around a site that had recently received land application of an organic material. Mr. Scott Haley traveled to Stafford County to respond to the complaint and determined that poultry litter had been applied to the site, but there was no evidence of biosolids application on that site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/29/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Sussex County. A resident of the area expressed concern about public access to a site that had recently received land application of biosolids. The site contains several buildings and auctions are held adjacent to the buildings. There was evidence that vehicles had been parked on a site that had received biosolids several months prior, but there was no evidence of public occupation on that site. However, the complainant subsequently reported that individuals were observed handling merchandise on the application site.
Inspection Report: 3/30/2006
Date of Complaint: 03/24/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Sussex County. A resident of the area expressed concern about land application of biosolids located on property formerly owned by Virginia Clark, but now owned by Kevin Engel. The applied biosolids were incorporated and operations completed.
Inspection Report: 3/27/2006
Date of Complaint: 03/23/2006
Summary:
VDH received complaints related to land application and field storage in Bedford County. A resident of the area expressed concern about biosolids transport truck traffic passing in front of their property and another resident complained about odors. John Schofield discussed land application permitting issues with the complainants and a list of permitted sites in Bedford County was forwarded to one resident.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/22/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to railroad siding site in Amherst County. A resident of the area expressed concern about numerous uncovered biosolids storage containers at the site. John Schofield inspected the site and determined that all the uncovered containers were empty and there were no signs of runoff.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/21/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Amelia County. A resident of the area expressed concern about possible runoff and contamination of their private well resulting from land application of biosolids on a site near their residence. Mr. Ray York, Local Monitor agreed to contact the resident. Mr. York then arranged to sample the residents well and have the well water tested.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/20/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Charlotte County. A resident of the area expressed concern about buffers from rock outcrops, adjoining properties, and slope restrictions for land application of biosolids on a site near their residence. Mr. Manuel Toombs, Local Monitor had spoken with the resident. Scott Haley traveled to the site and investigated those concerns. Nutri-Blend obtained a waiver for property line buffer.
Inspection Report: 3/22/2006
Date of Complaint: 03/20/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Appomattox County. A resident of the area expressed concern about biosolids transport truck traffic passing in front of their property. The operations were terminated the following day.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/13/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Appomattox County. A resident of the area expressed concern about cattle accessing a site that had received land application of biosolids. A review of the monitoring reports verified that the identified site had last received biosolids in November 2005; however land application operations had recently been completed on other sites on the farm.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/08/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Middlesex County. A resident of the area expressed concern about land application near their residence. The land applier agreed to increase the buffer distance set-back to 400 feet or more and to incorporate the applied biosolids. Scott Haley inspected the site following land application and observed that odors were minimal.
Inspection Report: 3/13/2006
Date of Complaint: 03/06/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint from USEPA Region III related to a land application site Sussex County. A resident of the area had expressed concern about public access over the weekend, (March 4, 2006) by a hunting club, whose club house is on a farm site where biosolids had been applied. A hunting dog field trial was held on the site. It was reported that there were in excess of 25 vehicles with multiple occupants driving onto this land. Scott Haley had inspected the land application sites and verified that the operations complied with the issued permit. When Scott Haley conducted the inspection on 2/23/2006, land application had occurred on part of the field in question. Scott observed that an onsite well had been properly buffered. The hunt club has an area around the old house with some sheds that may be used for parking. The area with the club (house), sheds, kennel, and well buffer, was approximately 200' X 200'. The access road runs through several parcels of land that contain open fields, old fields, forestland, and cut-over land. These parcels have fields that are permitted for land application. While one passes by several fields that have received biosolids, one can drive to the rear of the property (and the hunt club) without crossing through fields that are permitted for land application. The field trial was not a public event that involved occupation of the land application areas and did not involve children playing in the fields. The hunt club is approximately 1.5 miles from the end of the hard-surface road, Optimist Road (SR733).
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 03/03/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in King George County. A resident of the area expressed concern about about heavy rates of application and possible runoff to a nearby creek. This site was being utilized for land application of water treatment residuals from the Stafford County Abel Lake Drinking Water Treatment Facility. Buffers had been maintained, but there appeared to be heavy application on some areas of the site. The farmer had subsoiled the field prior to land application which created the appearance of heavy application in some areas. There was no evidence of runoff. Mr. Haley returned to the site to evaluate field conditions on March 15th. He observed grass growing vigorously on the field.
Inspection Report: 3/15/2006
Date of Complaint: 02/23-03/06/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in Sussex County. A resident of the area expressed concern about land application of biosolids located on property accessed from the end of Optimist Road (Rt. 733).
Mr. Scott Haley traveled to Sussex County to respond to the complaint and spoke with the wife of the complainant, on the telephone prior to visiting the site. She also complained about truck traffic, odor, and was concerned about her well and possible runoff into the nearby pond. She stated that her son-in-law had complained previously, and lived directly across Rt. 733 from her.
Mr. Haley explained the required buffer setbacks from wells and other features.
Mr. Haley did not detect any odor on Rt. 733. No land application occurring due to wet conditions. Mr. Haley detected odor onsite (on the farm road next to field SX6-90), but it was not strong. Fields SX6-91 & 92 (closest to the residences on Rt. 733) had been chisel-plowed. The distance from the closest land application field (SX6 91 & 92) to the complainant residence is approximately 1200 feet.
There was
