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 evidence of truck tire rutting on some fields and writer discussed this with Mr. Puryear of Synagro, and discussed the concerns of operating when field conditions are unsuitable. Writer called complainants to discuss the findings and stated that Synagro would be chisel-plowing the field to reduce odor potential. The complainants remained concerned about their well and said that they were going to test their well.
Inspection Report: 02/23/2006
Date of Complaint: 02/17-02/22/2006
Summary:
VDH received several complaints related to a land application site located in Sussex County. A resident of the area expressed concern about the odor that developed from the operations on Optimist Road and the early morning transport truck deliveries. In addition, questions were raised about the possibility of runoff, notification of adjoining land owners and access restrictions. Scott Haley subsequently inspected the land application sites and verified that the operations complied with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 02/07/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a silviculture operation in Surry County. A resident of the area expressed concern about odors that were characterized as a fishy smell that occurred during the land application operations. Mr. Swanson inspected the site area and checked the buffers on the applied fields and found that the property line setback and distances from the road provided adequate buffers. A slight odor was detected in the middle of the property with a steady wind blowing from the north to the south.
Inspection Report: 02/07/2006
Date of Complaint: 02/06/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to field storage in Bedford County. A resident of the area expressed concern about biosolids runoff to a creek from the field storage pad on the Rickie Wilkerson farm . John Schofield inspected the field storage site and verified that it complied with the issued permit variance. There were no signs of any biosolids material having migrated from the pad. There was some sloughing of the berm material and there was a small runoff channel that exhibited clay soil from the berm that had traveled toward the creek but not having reached or entered the actual stream, which is believed to be a tributary to Otterville Creek. Mr. Schofield suggested that Synagro employ the typical erosion and sediment control measures that would be done for other land disturbances such as building construction. The County Erosion and Sediment Control staff were subsequently contacted and requested to inspect the site. The County’s inspection verified the need for additional control measures.
Inspection Report: 02/08/2006
Date of Complaint: 02/03/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to a land application site in King & Queen County. A resident of the area expressed concern about odors from the operations and effects on a broodmare. Onsite personnel of Synagro and personnel of MES described the odor as ammonia. This may have been due to the fact that the Arlington biosolids were recently stored on a field storage pad. Christine Breddy, local biosolids monitor, reported that the odors had mostly dissipated on 2/6/2006, but the complainant remained concerned about future applications planned in the area.
Scott Haley inspected the land application site the next day to evaluate odor and to investigate an additional complaint of property line buffer violations. Odors at the site were observed as moderate for the source, and were detected onsite and offsite, along routes 660 and 619 near Cauthornville. These fields were scheduled to be no-till for corn in Spring 2006.
However, several areas of application appeared to be within the minimum set-back distance to certain property lines even if incorporation were performed. Mr. Haley checked buffer distances at several points and determined that more information was necessary to determine where the property lines were actually located. The farmer had requested buffer setback waivers from adjacent land owners, but that request was not granted by some property owners. The land applier incorporated the surface applied biosolids along property lines for which no waivers had been granted and one field in which odors persisted.
Inspection Report: 02/07/2006
Date of Complaint: 02/02/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to about odors from the owner of a small grocery/convenience store located to the north of a land application site in Westmoreland County. Mr. Scott Haley inspected the Land application site and observed that operations had been recently completed on the site and odors were present but not strong. Mr. Haley spoke with the complainant who stated that wind had been blowing from the south which would have transported odors towards the store. At the time of the visit, wind had changed direction and was blowing from the east. Mr. Haley and County personnel did not detect biosolids odors at the store. Complainant also asked questions about runoff and if the surface applied biosolids must be incorporated. Mr. Haley explained that the site was a no-till crop field, and buffers had been observed to be in compliance with the regulations. Mr. Haley asked the complainant to call again if odor persisted.
Inspection Report: 02/02/2006
Date of Complaint: 01/31/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to land application of biosolids in Appomattox County. Cal Sawyer spoke with the individual and determined that the individual was concerned with odors and possible tracking of biosolids onto Horseshoe Road (Rt. 656).
Mr. Scott Haley inspected the site operations to evaluate odor and inspect the roadway. The roadway was discolored slightly due to some mud staining, but no biosolids was observed on the roadway. The farm operator stores hay next to field AP1-19. While feeding and moving hay to other locations, mud can be tracked from this area onto the road. Odors were normal onsite and no odor was detected at the resident’s house or other houses along Rt.656 due to a slight southwest wind. Mr. Haley obtained a sample of the Joint Meeting biosolids from field "AP1-19" that was applied on 1/26/2006. The sample was delivered to A & L Eastern Laboratories in Richmond for analysis. Mr. Haley spoke with Guerry Beatson (Appomattox HD), who said that he and other staff were at the site on 1/27/2006 and did not observe any tracking of biosolids onto the roadway.
Inspection Report: 02/01/2006
Date of Complaint: 01/12-01/30/2006
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to odors around a land application site in Fluvanna County. Mr. Preston Smith conducted a physical and visual inspection of the biosolids application site and found that odors were barely detectable. Mr. Smith proceeded to walk around the entire site and noticed that biosolids had been applied in an even application, well within the marked (red flags) boundaries. Mr. Scott Haley later responded to several e-mail messages from the complainant and conducted a follow up inspection of the site. The site inspection revealed no violations of the issued permit. The complainant stated that he was concerned that the health of his daughter may be impacted by land application of biosolids. Mr. Haley copied Dr. Susan McLeod, on the e-mail, so that she could respond about health issues. The complainant later corresponded with Dr. McLeod by e-mail. Mr. Smith subsequently delivered permit information to the complainant’s residence.
Complainant also alleged that the site was accessed through his property, and that land application was occurring at night after midnight. Mr.Haley spoke with the land applier, who stated that the latest operating time was approximately 7:00PM, due to equipment breakdown. The farm operator had reportedly been feeding cattle at night, on part of the property that had previously received biosolids in November, 2005. The farm operator has no restriction on the time of day in which he chooses to feed cattle. The access road dispute would have to be resolved through legal proceedings involving the complainant and the land owner.
Inspection Report: 1/13/2006 and 1/30/2006
Date of Complaint: 12/20/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to biosolids transport trucks entering a site in Bedford County. A resident of the area expressed concern about the operations at the site which includes a field storage pad. John Schofield had previously inspected the field storage site and verified that it complied with the issued permit variance.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/20/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint related to bridge capacity for biosolids transport trucks near the Prospect Area of Prince Edward County. A resident of the area expressed concern about the bridge weight limits. The local monitor, Manuel Toombs checked the site access roads and found that there is a posted weight limiting bridge located on Rt. 626 approximately 1.5 miles from US460. The sites in question may be accessed by traveling from US460 on Rt. 627, turning right on Rt. 609, which leads to Rt. 626. Using this route, one may access all of the proposed land application sites.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/15/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint reported by Mark Alling, DEQ, PRO about health concerns related to air pollution from biosolids silviculture operation near the Spring Grove – Claremont Area of Surry County. A resident of the area expressed concern about the effect of biosolids applied to a wooded area several thousand feet away. Charlie Swanson previously inspected the area of operations and determined that there were no permit violations at the site. The resident was advised to contact the District Health Director concerning the health issues.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/09/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint opposing the permitting of farm sites near the Town of Elkton. The sites were actually proposed as a modification to a VPA Permit issued by DEQ. John Schofield participated in the initial inspection of the sites with DEQ-VRO staff. He determined that the sites were suitable for land application in accordance with the VPA Permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/05/2005
Summary:
Residents of King and Queen County complained about a site they described as “a human waste receptacle,” located on the Richardson Farm. They stated that the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) installed the facility without notifying the County and without obtaining permits from the County. Governor Warner asked the Secretary of Health and Human Resources to follow up with them on the matter. They were informed that subsequent to issuing a permit for King and Queen County, in accordance with the Regulations, the VDH approved a variance to the permit allowing the permitee to maintain a prepared site on which it temporarily stored biosolids before they were land applied. Charlie Swanson had inspected the field storage site and had taken soil and biosolids samples around the storage pad. Analytical test results obtained from the samples verified that the field storage site was operated in compliance with the permit variance.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/16/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids transport trucks were speeding on a gravel road. The permitee was contacted and instructed to notify their trucking sub-contractor to maintain safe speeds even if below posted limits. The permitee agreed to so notify the truck drivers. Scott Haley subsequently inspected the area of operations and determined that dry weather conditions had produced wind blown dust along the gravel road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/15/2005
Summary:
Mark Alling with DEQ-PRO notified VDH that several residents of the Spring Grove – Claremont Area were concerned about runoff from a biosolids silviculture operation and that he would be collecting water samples.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/10/2005
Summary:
Residents of King and Queen County stated that an operation on the Richardson Farm consisted of bringing in raw waste material pumped from septic systems (septage) located outside the county. They also stated that the sewage was being placed on cement pads to dry and then used to fertilize farmland. Governor Warner asked the Secretary of Health and Human Resources to follow up with them on the matter. They were informed that subsequent to issuing a permit for King and Queen County, in accordance with the Regulations, the VDH approved a variance to the permit allowing the permitee to maintain a prepared site on which it temporarily stored biosolids before they were land applied.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/09/2005
Summary:
Ms. Susan Trumbo with Recyc Systems, Inc. reported that cattle had entered a site located in Hanover County that was receiving biosolids. Recyc Systems suspended operations until the cattle were removed and the fence repaired. Scott Haley investigated and determined that the cattle had passed through a broken fence at the site. No cattle were observed on the area of the site where biosolids had been land applied. The cattle had entered the back area of the field away from the application area. Mr. Slettin, the farmer, moved the cattle into another field nearby. Scott re-inspected the site on 11/10/2005 and 11/18/2005 and determined that cattle were confined away from the land application site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/07/2005
Summary:
A County resident reported that cattle had entered a site located in Appomattox County that received biosolids less than 30 days after biosolids were applied. Scott Haley investigated and determined that several bulls had broken through a fence at the site. A site visit showed that the bulls had pastured in the buffer area and along the fence. Bulls had been driven back into the adjoining field and removed from the site at the time of the inspection.
Inspection Report: 11/07/2005
Image: 11/07/2005
Date of Complaint: 10/24/2005
Summary:
Aileen Ferguson, Appomattox County Administrator, had received a complaint about trucks tracking material on Rt. 627 and reported it to Mr. Wingfield with Appomattox County, who contacted DWE. Scott Haley contacted the land applier and requested that all loose material be removed from the road. Scott Haley, Bobby Wingfield, and Manuel Toombs, Regional Biosolids Monitor, conducted a follow-up inspection of the site and roads and did not observe any permit violations there.
Inspection Report: 10/24/2005
Image: 10/24/2005
Date of Complaint: 10/21/2005
Summary:
A resident of Frederick County contacted the local environmental organization, which contacted DEQ-VRO. The DEQ Regional Office referred the complaint to VDH. The resident was concerned about possible contamination of a pond from runoff draining from a land application site. Scott Haley had inspected the site and established buffer set-backs around drainageways. Laura Shifflett, local monitor, re-inspected the site and following discussions with the complainant, requested that certain buffer set-backs be increased prior to initiating land application. The land applier agreed to Ms. Shifflett’s request.
Inspection Report: 10/21/2005
Date of Complaint: 10/12/2005
Summary:
Mr. Donald Hackler, Environmental Health Manager for the Thomas Jefferson Health District, received a call from a County resident, who reported speeding transport trucks near a land application site in Albemarle County. The resident also contacted DWE and requested information on sites permitted for land application. Scott inspected the site and although land application operations were complete, biosolids application on a steep site slope was identified. The land applier was instructed to initiate training to ensure that all field crew personnel were knowledgeable about the restrictions for operations on steep slopes. The land applier did conduct training and purchased new slope measurement equipment for use by field crews.
Inspection Report: 10/14/2005 Supplement
Date of Complaint: 10/06/2005
Summary:
Mark Alling, DEQ, PRO notified Amy Pemberton of the Surry County Health Department, that a resident of the Spring Grove-Claremont Area of the County expressed concerns about possible pollution of water in the Sunken Meadow Pond as well as health concerns about air pollution from biosolids applied to a wooded area near Spring Grove. Dr. Royster, Regional Director of the Crator Health District, contacted DWE. Charlie Swanson and Amy had inspected the land application operation several weeks prior in response to a complaint from the resident filed with the DEQ. Charlie Swanson re-inspected the operations and determined that no permit violations had occurred. The transport of aerosols from land application on the tree site would be very unlikely.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/14/2005
Summary:
A County resident contacted Ms. Melody Fowler with the Spotsylvania Local Health Department and expressed concerns about the potential impacts from land application on a nearby farm. The resident stated that strong odors were present. Ms. Fowler referred the complaint to DWE. The land applier and biosolids generator were contacted and requested to address any odor problems. Another resident, concerned about contamination of their well, also contacted the Local Health Department, who forwarded the complaint to Scott Haley. Scott Haley inspected the site and found that odors were somewhat normal. The closest distance from the application site boundary to the resident’s well was more than 800 feet. However, certain drainage features appeared to not be sufficiently buffered and Mr. Haley requested that larger set-backs be provided on such features.
Inspection Report: 9/14/2005
Date of Complaint: 9/13/2005
Summary:
A resident of the Spring Grove Area of Surry County forwarded an e-mail to DEQ expressing concerns about possible runoff from a wooded land application site located near Claremont. DEQ-PRO agreed to sample runoff in area. Amy Pemberton of the Surry County Health Department, had previously investigated a similar complaint about odors from this site. Charlie Swanson and Amy Pemberton inspected the wooded land application site and verified that operations were in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/12/2005
Summary:
A resident of the Bealeton Area of Fauquier County, complained to VDH that piles of odorous pellet material that had been stockpiled and were smoldering in various locations. Scott Haley investigated and determined that the stockpiles were Class A pellets stored on land owned by Brock Price. A Mr. Calvin Ritchie was storing the pellets there, with Mr. Price's permission, according to his son Bill Ritchie. Scott Haley inspected the site and found that a large pile of pellets had been smoldering, but had since been spread out in an attempt to cool the material and prevent reheating. There was not any sign of smoldering or odors at the time of the inspection. Scott requested that Mr. Ritchie continue to monitor the stockpile site. A return visit on 9/20/2005 showed that pellets had been removed and land applied.
Inspection Report: 9/12/2005
Date of Complaint: 9/02/2005
Summary:
A resident of Pittsylvania County complained to VDH that her well water had became odorous and she was concerned about ground water contamination from a site on which biosolids were applied. However, the application site was approximately 1200 feet from her well. Mr. Manville with the treatment works source of the biosolids explained land application operations and the permit process to the resident. She informed Mr. Manville that she also talked to someone at DEQ about her well water possibly being contaminated. The DEQ employee listened to her concerns and said if all buffer zones were adhered to, then the biosolids could not contaminate her well water. She indicated that the DEQ comments were comforting, but was still going to have her well water tested. She had talked to Senator Hawkins about the issue and stated that he wants to be informed about the test results on her well water. She told Mr. Manville that there should be a community outreach program in place to educate the people that live in the effected area to better help them understand the process.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/31/2005
Summary:
Amy Pemberton with the Surry County Health Department, received a complaint from a resident of the Spring Grove Area of Surry County, about possible runoff from the land application of biosolids on a wooded area that was located upstream from the Sunken Meadow Pond, that she was part owner of. Amy inspected the tree site and contacted Mr. Charlie Swanson and arranged a joint follow-up inspection that was conducted on 8/6/2005. The follow-up inspection verified that operations were in compliance with permit. However, Mrs. Blackburn remained concerned about the potential impacts of the land application operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/26/2005
Summary:
A County resident reported to Cumberland County that strong odors were present near a land application site located in the County. Scott investigated and found that only minimal odors were present on the land application site. Some material had been tracked onto Route 600 and Mr. Haley instructed Nutri-Blend to remove this material from the roadway, which was done.
Inspection Report: 8/26/2005
Date of Complaint: 8/05/2005
Summary:
Ms. Patty Greek with DEQ-NRO received a complaint about the land application operations on the Gilman tree site in Spotsylvania County. A local resident entered the land application tree site, without the owner's permission and photographed parts of the application areas and sent the photos to DEQ. The complainant alleged that the photos indicated misapplication. Scott Haley had inspected the land application operations on several occasions in May 2005 and did not observe any permit non-compliance and Ms. Greek was informed of that. A site visit was conducted on 8/9/2005 with Mr. T.C Waddy (Spotsylvania Supervisor), Ed Stuart (DEQ), VDH staff, and Synagro representatives and compliance was confirmed.
Inspection Report: 8/05/2005 Supplement
Date of Complaint: 7/29/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint from a resident of Fauquier County concerning odors and possible over-application that might result in runoff from a land application site. Charlie Swanson inspected the site on 8/3/05 and found that odors were minimal and application rates were in compliance with the permit, but there was some road tracking near the site. The land applier was requested to remove all loose material from the roadway.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/29/2005
Summary:
VDH received a complaint from Reverend Gayl Fowler, a member of SAIF Water Committee in Lancaster County, concerning possible contamination from a land application site, located in the County. The complaint concerned an individual well water supply for Mr. Robert Campbell on Route 618. Small baby ducks (less than 10) living on the pond had recently died. Larger ducks were still present and OK. Charlie Swanson inspected the well along with Mr. Fridley with the Lancaster County Health Department, and representatives of SAIF and Recyc Systems on 8/1/05. Well water samples were collected and analyzed and SAIF subsequently made improvements to the shallow bored well. No detectable levels of Fecal Coliform bacteria, or organic chemicals were found in the well water, but a relatively high Nitrate-Nitrogen level was present. Biosolids had been applied to a corn field that was located in excess of three hundred feet away from the well, with the slope of the field away from the well. No permit violations of the completed biosolids operation were noted. The well water sample results were forwarded to SAIF and to Mr. Fridley, but no link to land application and the mortality of the ducklings could be established.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/28/2005
Summary:
On July 28, 2002, James Scott notified Cal Sawyer by phone that a complaint had been received at the DEQ-WCRO that biosolids had been applied at noticeably high rates on field 3 (RO20), off Route 681 in Botetourt County. John Schofield was contacted and subsequently inspected the site on July 28, 2005. He observed that liquid biosolids were applied at depths exceeding one inch on portions of the site. Digital photographs were taken of the application area (See attached photos). In addition, field records were not available at the site as required. John Schofield also inspected the site on July 29, 2005 and established that the applied biosolids continued to exceed a one inch depth in a large area of the site following a drying period of approximately 30 hours (See attached photos). NOV issued 9/7/05.
Inspection Report: 7/28/2005
Date of Complaint: 7/25/2005
Summary:
VDH received several calls about a land application site located in Louisa County. Local residents had learned that from posted signs that operations were scheduled to begin in several weeks. The complainants were concerned that they were unaware that the site permitted to receive biosolids. A resident mentioned that she and other residents located adjacent to the permitted site had existing health problems and she was referred to Dr. McLeod, Regional Director of the Thomas Jefferson Health District. Dr. Lilian Peake, who was filling in for Dr. McCloud, did speak with local residents and conferred with DWE by telephone and email about the expressed health concerns. The site visit by Charlie Swanson, revealed that three homes(two exisiting and one being constructed) are now located in the end of the field(borders on Bordon Road) and this field is now smaller than originally approved in 1991. These homes have been constructed since 2002, the latest update on topozone(over the internet). The Gibsons live at 1862 Belches Road(one of the three homes) and this home would be provided with a 400 foot buffer set-back around it to address the expressed health issues. There are also three or four homes located down Bordon Road (in the trees) on the same side of the road as this farm field. As a result of the concerns of the residents of these homes, the landowner informed the land applier that approval to apply biosolids was effectively withdrawn for an indefinite period of time.
Inspection Report: 7/25/2005
Date of Complaint: 7/19/2005
Summary:
VDH received a call from Delegate May’s office reporting that a resident of Loudoun County was concerned about piles of odorous material located on a nearby farm. The local Health Department had someone visit the site, but could not verify any objectionable odors. Scott Haley investigated and determined that Class A Pellets had been delivered to the identified farm. Although odors were not verified, the pellet supplier was instructed to request that the farmer spread all delivered material in accordance with the supplier’s Distribution and Marketing Permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/12/2005
Summary:
Cal Sawyer received an e-mail from a resident of Fairfax County, on behalf of residents of Frederick County. The author of the e-mail reported that the residents home was located close to a field in the County that was currently receiving land application. The author went on to report that in her opinion the health of one of the residents was being impacted by biosolids application. The author did not believe that permit buffer requirements were adequate for protection of residents with existing health problems.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/10/2005
Summary:
Cal Sawyer received an e-mail from resident in the Richmond City Area on behalf of a Louisa County resident, who reportedly suffered from respiratory problems requiring oxygen for assistance in breathing. The e-mail author alleged that the land application operations on a site approximately 700 feet from the residents home would adversely affect their health due to odors reported by other nearby residents. The author also forwarded this complaint to Dr. McLeod, Director of the Thomas Jefferson Health District. Dr. McLeod requested contact information for the resident. Scott Haley inspected the land application site and found that the odors around the site were minimal.
Inspection Report: 7/11/2005 Supplement
Date of Complaint: 6/29/2005
Summary:
Judy Ornby, Cumberland County Administrator, reported that a neighbor of Allendale Farms complained that biosolids pellets had been spread within 40 feet of their well. Charlie Swanson investigated and verified that pellets had been properly spread on a good stand of pasture grass and that the pasture sloped and drained away from the neighbor's residence. The exact location of the neighbor's well was not determined. Neighbors objected to application adjacent to their property.
Inspection Report: 6/29/2005
Date of Complaint: 6/21/2005
Summary:
Mark Remsberg, King George County, reported an aynonymous complaint about land application on Mathias Point Road. Scott Haley investigated and verified that biosolids had been applied to fields along Mathias Point Road. Ammonia odor was present, but not detected at neighboring houses. Proper rates and setbacks were employed.
Inspection Report: 6/22/2005
Date of Complaint: 6/15/2005
Summary:
Dr. Levine, Director of the Piedmont Health District, reported a complaint he received about road tracking in Lunenburg County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that transport trucks were crossing some portions of the applied areas. However, the trucks were traveling up and down a gravel farm road prior to entering the state maintained paved road. Charlie Swanson requested that certain pavement areas be scraped to remove loose material.
Inspection Report: 6/15/2005
Date of Complaint: 6/10/2005
Summary:
Marty Farber with Legislative Services reported a call from Delegate Byron's Office concerning a complaint that biosolids had been spread on a site with tall grass in Buckingham County. Robert Luke, Local Monitor, investigated and reported that the site was to be recut before any grazing was initiated on the pasture.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/06/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained about damage to the access road to a permitted forestry site in Caroline County. He was also concerned about a previous staging area that was on an unpermitted site that was left improperly graded and was collecting rainwater. Scott Haley investigated and found that the tree operation was in compliance, but that the complaint about the staging area was valid. The land applicator was instructed to correct the problem by regrading the area. The staging area was regraded and stone was applied to the access road.
Inspection Report: 6/07/2005
Date of Complaint: 5/11/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained about stockpiles of odorus material remaining for some time near her home in Spotsylvania County. Scott Haley investigated and discovered that the material was thermally processed pellets (Patapsco) that were marketed as exceptional quality (EQ) biosolids (VDHBUR 1). The farmer using the pellets was spreading the stockpiled material as quickly as possible as recommended.
Inspection Report: 5/11/2005
Date of Complaint: 5/09/2005-5/19/2005
Summary:
Jerry Franklin (Loudoun HD) called to regarding odor complaint on Red Hill Farm, that he investigated on 5/10/2005 and determined odors were not excessive. On 5/13/2005, Jerry Franklin left a message that ammonia odor was stronger at the site and that he would forward a list of complainants. Scott Haley spoke with a resident whose home was located near the Red Hill Farm regarding the odor complaint and whether any possibility of runoff exists. Scott Haley contacted or met with complainants on 5/17 and 5/18. The site inspection revealed normal odors due to excellent drying conditions. All observed buffers were in compliance with the permit booklet.
Inspection Report: 5/09/2005-5/19/2005
Date of Complaint: 5/02/2005-5/19/2005
Summary:
Local residents complained about odors from a permitted forestry site in Spotsylvania County. A resident also complained about truck traffic. Scott Haley conducted several site inspections during the time of the complaints and determined that high humidity, wind direction, and warm weather were contributing to odors from the tree operation, primarily in the evening and early morning. The land applier was requested to complete the site expeditiously by diverting biosolids from other land application sites. Other residents complained about strong odors. Although the MES Inspectors determined that the biosolids pH was in the acceptable range, strong odors had developed. Chris Peot with DCWASA determined that operational problems probably resulted in several loads of off-quality biosolids that were delivered to the tree site. Synagro finished applying to the tree site and left the area during the time that the odor problem developed.
Inspection Report: 5/02/2005-5/24/2005
Date of Complaint: 5/04/2005
Summary:
A resident complained that chemical tests on his well water in Spotsylvania County had revealed contamination that he thought might be due to land applied biosolids. The local health department and Scott Haley investigated the complaint and discovered that the nearest permitted land application sites were more than 1 mile from the complainant's residence and had not received biosolids at that time. The well contamination problem was apparently a real estate contractor dispute that had not been resolved.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/27/2005
Summary:
A resident telephoned DWE and expressed concerns about odor from a biosolids storage facility located in King George County. She was also concerned that there might be some raw material (septage or untreated sludge) land applied. Scott Haley investigated and found that the source of odor was digested biosolids land applied adjacent to the storage facility. Biosolids were incorporated to control stronger than normal odor.
Inspection Report: 4/28/2005
Date of Complaint: 4/26/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained that her health could be affected when she drove by sites to which biosolids had been applied in Prince Edward County. She was concerned about wind blown dust from the application sites. Jonathan Pickett, Local Monitor inspected the land application sites and did not detect any noticeable odors and observed that the grass was more than a foot high on those sites. Hay mowing on other sites that did not receive biosolids did result in wind blown debris that was dusty in appearance.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/22/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained that biosolids were applied near a swampy area in Dinwiddie County and damage to water quality would result. Bernie Houchins, Local Monitor, investigated and found that operations on the site were in compliance with the VDH Permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/21/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained to the Lord Fairfax Health District that biosolids applications could pollute water quality in the area near where she lived in Frederick County. The Health District Director replied to the resident by letter.
Inspection Report: 4/21/2005
Date of Complaint: 4/20/2005
Summary:
DWE received a complaint about odors from a farm located in Louisa County on Route 33, near the intersection with Bethany Church Road. The complainant stated that the odors must come from the land application of human sludge. Charlie Swanson inspected the Windy Hills Farm sites the next morning. He determined that the odor resulted from land applied poultry litter originating from the poultry CAFO houses located on the farm.
Inspection Report: 4/21/2005
Date of Complaint: 4/13/2005
Summary:
The local health department in Montgomery County reported receiving complaints that that the Town of Christiansburg had applied their biosolids too close to a stream adjacent to the permitted site. Those operations were conducted through the discharge permit (VPDES) Sludge Management Plan (SMP) which is enforced by DEQ. The DEQ Regional Office staff initiated an investigation of the complaint.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/30/2005
Summary:
A County resident expressed concern about operations scheduled to begin on the surrounding farmland in Prince George County. She requested that operations be delayed until she was away on vacation or that she be compensated for temporary lodging elsewhere. The land applicator agreed to try to work out an acceptable operating schedule.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/25/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained about odors from a land application site and expressed concern about possible ground water contamination that could affect her well in Bedford County. Dan Richardson, Central Virginia Health District and Charlie Swanson, separately inspected the site and determined that minimal odor was present and that buffer distances around the application area were well above the required minimums.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/11/2005
Summary:
Heather Straughan, Local Monitor, reported that land applicators were operating on 2 permitted sites without the proper field records (site booklets). No advance notification of the operations had been given to her. On the second site (Hynson) liquid biosolids were applied within the permitted area, but some rainfall occurred prior to application. Heather was informed that she could request that biosolids operations be halted and transport vehicles on the way to these sites should be turned around and returned to the sources. Land application operations could be renewed when the proper records were available on-site. The land applicator complied with that request. Enforcement action procedures were initiated based on Heather's report. NOV issued on 3/11/05. Consent Order accepted 6/3/05.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/09/2005
Summary:
Chip Russell with the Rappahannock Health District reported that a complaint had been received concerning biosolids transport trucks parking next to a fast food outlet in Thornburg near I-95. Charlie Swanson visited the site and observed a constructed paid parking area for trucks located several hundred feet from the restaurant. The land applier was contacted and they agreed to instruct the trucking subcontractor to park the transport trucks at an alternate location.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/17/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained that strong odors were coming from a site that he drove by when leaving or entering his property in Sussex County. He was concerned that biosolids had been applied to bare ground on the site and had not been incorporated for 3 days after application. He reported that his son became ill after driving past the site. The land applier reported that wet conditions had delayed incorporation and that the site consisted of more than 60 % cover from harvested cotton. The MES inspectors confirmed that site cover was adequate so as to not require incorporation, but that strong to moderate odors did exist and that incorporation would take place as soon as possible.
Inspection Report: 2/17/2005
Date of Complaint: 2/15/2005
Summary:
County residents complained about odors from material applied to a site adjacent to their property in Buckingham County. They were concerned that appropriate buffers were not maintained and that runoff could degrade water quality. Charlie Swanson investigated and discovered that the applied material was poultry litter not regulated by a VDH Permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/09/2005
Summary:
Ray York, Amelia County Local Monitor, reported that residual soil (clay) was being tracked onto the roadway from the logging road that was constructed into the Webb tree site. Charlie Swanson and Cal Sawyer investigated and agreed that the logging road should be improved to minimize accumulation of clay on truck tires. It was recommended additional gravel be placed at several locations. The land applier agreed to wait until the logging road was drier before resuming truck traffic on it and that improvements would be made to the road in the near future.
Inspection Report: 2/24/2005
Date of Complaint: 2/08/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained that odors persisted from prior application of biosolids on a site located in Essex County. Charlie Swanson visited the site, but did not detect any residual odors.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/21/2005
Summary:
A County resident complained about strong odors coming from a pasture to which biosolids had been applied in Richmond County. The site was being farmed by Mr. Earl Lewis. The land applier reported normal odors were present and Charlie Swanson subsequently verified presence of minimal odors as noted in his inspection report.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/06/2005
Summary:
A County resident expressed concerns about proposed land application on a site adjacent to her property in Prince Edward County. The land applier agreed to extend the buffer distance set-back to 400 feet from the application site to her residence.
Inspection Report: 1/06/2005
Summary:
Date of Complaint: 1/05/2005
A County resident expressed concerns about land application on wooded site across from her home in Amelia County. A logging road has been rebuilt into the property for access to a temporary storage location serving as field storage through a permit variance. She was concerned about pollution of ground water and possible runoff from the site during heavy rainfall. There had been no application of biosolids to the tree area at time of complaint. Ray York, local monitor for Amelia County, will keep the resident informed about the operations on the site and will take well water samples and have tests done.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/27/2004
Summary:
Jonathan Pickett referred a complaint about land application operations in Prince Edward County, to Dr. Mark Levine (Piedmont Health District). Scott Haley visited the site and found that buffers were in compliance with the regulations. In addition, there was no evidence of runoff.
Inspection Report: 12/27/2004
Date of Complaint: 12/22/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley was contacted by Appomattox County about an overturned truck on Route 616. The land applier was contacted and reported that staff was onsite with Virginia State police and Appomattox County Sheriff's Department. Cleanup was authorized by the local environmental inspector, and was complete by 1:00PM. Mr. Scott Haley subsequently visited the site to verify cleanup.
Inspection Report: 12/22/2004
Summary:
Date of Complaint: 12/17/2004
Scott Haley was contacted by Westmoreland County about possible tracking of biosolids on Route 604. Scott Haley and Heather Straughan, local monitor, inspected and found a minor amount of tracking of mud and crop residue, but no evidence of biosolids in the tracked material.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/10/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about contamination of Drinking water wells serving the Town of Mckenny. The complaint was made by Mr. Massengill, acting County Administrator in a letter to Congressman Forbes who notified DEQ of the County concern. VDH staff reviewed the monitoring testing results obtained from well water samples obtained under the Safe Drinking Water Act and state regulations. The testing results did not reveal any contamination that could be attributed to land application of biosolids.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/09/2004
Summary:
Cal Sawyer was contacted by Westmoreland County about possible application of biosolids during rainfall on the Malcolm Dameron site near Route 604. Heather Straughan, local monitor, inspected and found that the biosolids applied to the site had apparently been incorporated prior to the rainfall. The land applier would now begin to directly notify her in advance of operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 12/06/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley received a call from a County resident calling for another resident who was concerned about his water supply being contaminated from land application on a nearby site in Frederick County. Mr. Haley visited the site with local monitor Laura Shifflett. Observed buffers were in compliance with the permit and reported application rates were consistent with allowable loadings.
Inspection Report: 12/08/2004
Date of Complaint: 12/02/2004
Summary:
Cal Sawyer was contacted by County residents about transport trucks passing across a Right of Way (R/W) through their land in Amelia County on their way to the Scott Timberland Silviculture operation on the Webb Tract site near Route 615. They objected to such use of that R/W. Ray York, local monitor, had inspected the site and the field storage area. The question of prescriptive rights to use of the R/W would have to be resolved through legal actions.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/18/2004
Summary:
Cal Sawyer was contacted by a County resident who complained of strong odors following land application on the Gentry Farm near Route 230 in Madison County. The resident operated a Bed and Breakfast located about 1/4 mile from the land application site. The resident stated that the cluster fly population had noticeably increased over recent years. Scott Haley visited the site later, but did not observe strong odor at the land application site. He did observe that a deer dressing station was located nearby.
Inspection Report: 11/22/2004
Date of Complaint: 11/10/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley received an odor complaint from a resident of Essex County. Scott Haley inspected the site and found that odors were moderate at the site and no odors were detected at complainant’s house. Ed Taylor of MES performed an inspection on the following day and verified that odors remained low.
Inspection Report: 11/10/2004
Date of Complaint: 11/08/2004
Summary:
VDH had received a complaint about possible illness by a resident of Nottoway County. The Piedmont Health District Director then investigated the illness claims by contacting the complainant. No specific relationship between the resident’s health problems and the land application operations could be determined. Scott Haley inspected the land application site and found minimal odors present. He also checked site buffers, which were in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: 11/09/2004
Date of Complaint: 11/02/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley received a complaint about odor from a land application site from a resident of Madison County. Scott Haley inspected the site and found minimal odors. Mr. Haley contacted MES to verify the presence of odors (slight odor onsite) and biosolids pH (over 12) during land application. The MES inspector returned to the site the next day and did not detect any odor at complainants residence.
Inspection Report: 11/02/2004
Date of Complaint: 10/29/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint from a County resident through the land applier, about possible illness resulting from land application in the area of the Forrester Farm near Cottage Road in Nottoway County. Biosolids had been land applied on a site several hundred feet from an automobile repair shop and 2 mechanics who worked there reported that strong odors had existed and they became ill shortly after exposure to the odors. Dr. Levine, Director of the Piedmont Health District investigated. Two workers at the repair shop stated that they had been treated for illness symptoms. One of the workers noted that several of his children had recently been ill. Dr Levine informed them that a connection between the symptoms and the exposure to land application could not be established, but that he would likely have the District Epidemiologist collect additional information for his records. They agreed to give feedback to the property owner who they both knew well.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/28/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley was contacted by Westmoreland County about biosolids leaking from a truck. Scott Haley and Heather Straughan, the local monitor inspected the operations that originated at the King George County Routine Storage Lagoon. Road tracking from spillage was evident along the transport route into Westmoreland County. A biosolids transport trailer with a cracked tail gate was identified as the source of the spillage. The land applier was instructed to clean up the spillage and initiated actions to remove all loose material from the roads. Enforcement action taken. NOV issued 12/10/2004. Consent Order accepted 1/27/2005.
Inspection Report: 10/28/2004
Date of Complaint: 10/27/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint from a worker at the Ducks Corner Store in Buckingham County, who reported that biosolids was being spread on the Saxon Farm during rainfall and that tracking of site soil and biosolids had occurred on nearby roads. The land applier was contacted and reported that land application had been completed just after a light drizzle began and that their field crews were cleaning off the roads. The Local Monitor, Robert Luke inspected the site and found that the operations were complete and that residuals had been scraped from the roadways.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/26/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about tracking of biosolids onto Route 26 in Appomattox County. Jim Bowles, Environmental Health Manager for the Central Virginia Health District, inspected and found that the road surface was stained with mud, but that no biosolids were present on the road surface.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/14/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley was notified by e-mail of odor and tracking complaints near a land application site in Louisa County. Charlie Swanson had previously inspected the site ( Daniel Road). He found that odors were normal to very slight on all sites. Some minor tracking of soil, mud and biosolids was observed. The land applier swept the roads removing all loose material.
Inspection Report: 10/14/2004
Date of Complaint: 10/12/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about strong odors around a land application site in Frederick County. The local monitor, Laura Shifflett, visited the complainant on October 14 and spoke with several neighbors about odor complaints in and around the Albin Area. She detected very slight odor in the actual application field, but none offsite. In her opinion, the odor was not a result of the biosolids. This may have been confirmed by Ms. Flowers, who said that buzzards were in the area and odors may have been related to a deer carcass was present somewhere in the area, perhaps in the 1000' feet of orchard and overgrowth between the land application site and her residence. The Public Works Department fueled vehicles across the street from the entrance to the Mobile Home Park where the complainant lived. Ms. Shifflett asked Public Works employees there if they had noticed any biosolids odors and they had not. Ms. Christina Davenport with the Local Health Department, visited the area on October 15, but the complainant was not home. Ms. Davenport did not notice any odors from biosolids, but did detect an odor that may have been related to emissions from a nearby company. Neighbors agreed that the odor was different than they had noticed previously from the land application operations.
Inspection Report: 10/12/2004
Date of Complaint: 10/06/2004
Summary:
Charlie Swanson received complaint that strong odors were present near a land application site in Louisa County. Charlie Swanson inspected the site (Daniel Road). He found that odors were normal to very slight on all sites. Some minor tracking of soil, mud, and biosolids were observed. The land applier swept the roads removing all loose material.
Inspection Report N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/04/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about strong odors near Route 208 at the Dickenson Farm in Spotsylvania County. Scott Haley inspected the site. Odors were slight at time of the inspection. All observed buffers were in compliance with the permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/01/2004
Summary:
Scott Haley received a complaint about odor and truck traffic from two local residents concerning land application on the Spillman Farm in King George County. Odors not detected at residences and normal odors on the site. Land applier indicated they would let VDOT know before operations returned to the farm, so that calcium chloride could be applied to the dirt road to control dust.
Inspection Report: 10/01/2004
Date of Complaint: 09/24/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about land application on the Dickenson property in Spotsylvania County. Scott Haley investigated. Although proper buffers were observed, the land applier had placed biosolids on a portion of a site that had been removed from the permit application due to objections filed by neighbor with a shallow well. Enforcement action taken. NOV issued 10/18/2004. Consent Order accepted 12/23/2004.
Inspection Report: 09/25/2004
Date of Complaint: 09/23/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible water pollution impacts from land application on a site located in Charlotte County. Scott Haley investigated. Biosolids had been applied on 60.3 acres near Madisonville. All buffers were observed by contractor. The complainant’s residence was more than 1/2 mile from the land application area. Surface runoff would be limited to just sediment as biosolids had been incorporated by discing.
Inspection Report: 09/24/2004
Date of Complaint: 09/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible contamination of a well located in Frederick County near a land application site. Scott Haley and local monitor Laura Shifflett investigated the complaint of foul-smelling well water. The inspection did reveal that the well water had an odor. A gray water discharge from the residence was located within 50 feet of the well. Samples of well water were taken by the local Health Department staff. Test results for Fecal Coliform were positive and Nitrate level was high, but below the MCL. Inadequate well construction may be leading to surface contamination. The resident was instructed to relocate the gray water discharge.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 09/08/2004
Summary:
Charlie Swanson received complaint about cattle grazing in an Appomattox County Field within 30 days after land application. Scott Haley confirmed presence of cattle remotely located on the permitted site, but not near the application area. Those cattle had apparently passed through a broken fence and were removed from the site by the farmer and placed in another area. Photos were taken at the time of the complaint and eventually forwarded to VDH by local resident showing several cattle in an area where biosolids had apparently been applied. Enforcement action taken through warning notice to land applier and farmer. During informal conference meeting at VDH the land applier agreed to verify fence suitability at all sites in future.
Inspection Report: 09/09/2004
Date of Complaint: 09/08/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about buffer violations and possible runoff at a Prince Edward County Site. Scott Haley investigated. Buffers were adequately maintained and there was no evidence of runoff from the site and wells at residences were of recent construction.
Inspection Report: 09/08/2004
Date of Complaint: 09/06/2004
Summary:
Dr. Mark Levine, Piedmont District Health Director, received a petition expressing opposition to the application of biosolids on the Routt Property near the Spring Creek Baptist Church. Nutri-Blend, Inc. agreed to coordinate any future plans for operation on that site with the County, VDH and the Church.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/30/2004-9/05/2004
Summary:
Cal Sawyer, DWE and Dr. Helentjaris, Lord Fairfax Health District, received calls from local residents opposed to application of biosolids on the Hewitt Farm near the Ashland Meadows Subdivision. Scott Haley, DWE and Laura Shifflett, Frederick County, investigated and verified that adequate buffers would exist for complainants.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/20/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about strong odors and road tracking in the vicinity of land application operations in Frederick County. Scott Haley evaluated odors at the site. Normal odors detected on site and on Route 679. Mixture of biosolids, mud and vegetation had been tracked onto Route 679. As the tracked material had dried out and could not practically be removed no further action was required.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/17/2004
Summary:
Dr. Watson a Veterinarian located in Amelia County called Charles Swanson, DWE concerning the Brandon temporary storage site used by Synagro. He was concerned about possible runoff and road tracking. Ray York, Amelia County local monitor, inspected the operations and did not observe such problems.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/16/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible runoff resulting in biosolids deposition in a pond located in Prince Edward County. Charlie Swanson investigated and a rainfall event of 5 inches had produced a large amount of runoff from a watershed into a SCS reservoir apparently resulting in resuspension of sediment that was deposited around pond banks as the water level receded. The silty sediments did not resemble biosolids and the small land application area that was located in the watershed was located approximately 0.4 miles from the pond inlet.
Inspection Report: 8/17/2004
Date of Complaint: 8/16/2004
Summary:
Cal Sawyer received an anonymous complaint about land application of untreated septage on a site at the King George and Westmoreland County line. Scott Haley investigated and found no evidence of raw septage and only digested biosolids had been applied on the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/12/2004
Summary:
Laura Shifflett, Frederick County local monitor, called to report tracking of biosolids observed adjacent to a land application site. Scott Haley subsequently instructed the land applier to sweep and scrape the road to remove any loose material.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/11/2004
Summary:
Susan Adams with Charlotte County sent an e-mail to Dr. Mark Levine, Piedmont District Health Director, containing a list of complaints about biosolids application to the Robert Tate Farm. DWE contacted Nutri-Blend who noted that operations were completed on the site on July 30th. Workers were reported to be located at some distance from the land application area during those operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/10/2004
Summary:
Dr. Helentjaris, Lord Fairfax Health District, had received health concern complaints from Frederick County residents. Scott Haley evaluated the odor around a land application area near the complainants. Following an evaluation of the health concerns expressed by members of a family of an elderly resident, the buffer set-back from one residence to a future land application site was increased to 400 Feet.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/06/2004
Summary:
VDH received complaints of heavy traffic involving biosolids transport trucks in an area of Goochland County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that truck traffic to and from a temporary storage site had been considerable due to two weeks of wet weather. An alternate route for returning trucks leaving the storage site was agreed to by the land applier to reduce the taffic impact on one road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/06/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about land application operations taking place on wet soils in King George County. Scott Haley investigated the complaint about operations during wet conditions. No land application was taking place, only placement of biosolids into a permitted storage facility.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/02/2004
Summary:
VDH received a report that road tracking along Route 680 in Bedford County had extended out to Route 460. The complainant was also concerned about biosolids applied too close to roads and possible runoff due to flooding on permitted sites. The land applier was contacted and replied that operations had ceased in that area of the County 2 months prior to this complaint. Mr. Mike Mayhew with the Virginia State Police had inspected the identified roads but did not observe significant tracking. Mr. Edwards, the farmer of the land application sites, reported that none of the sites had been flooded since biosolids had been applied.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/02/2004
Summary:
VDH received a report that land applier personnel had placed equipment on a section of a property that was not permitted for land application. That property owner demanded that they remove the equipment and it was removed. The land applier was contacted and stated that their field staff mistakenly thought that the property was part of the permitted sites on the farm area extending down an unpaved road that they were operating along.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/28/2004
Summary:
VDH received a report from Dinwiddie County that wheat had been harvested from a land application site within 14 months of the time operations finished. The County was informed that wheat was considered to be a crop whose harvested parts did not remain in contact with the ground surface and thus could be harvested prior to 14 months after biosolids application.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/20/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that a resident of Charlotte County had become ill following land application operations on a site located approximately ½ mile from the residence of the stricken individual who was diagnosed with a serious illness. Charlie Swanson collected composite samples of Middlesex biosolids from containers that had been transported by rail car to Nelson County. The samples were sent to a microbiological laboratory to be analyzed for the presence of Enteric Virus. The samples were analyzed by the EPA recognized laboratory and found not to contain the Enteric Virus. These results were forwarded to Dr. Levine.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/16/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids had been tracked on a road near a land application site located in Louisa County. The complainant also reported odors near the site were excessive. Scott Haley investigated and found a small amount of road tracking, but normal odors. MES inspectors had tested the pH of biosolids brought to the site and the measured levels verified proper stabilization.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/13/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors from land application causing discomfort to a resident of Nottoway County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that operations were complete and that minimal odors were present, however the lime addition and mixing operations were suspended due to the non-remote location of the farm site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/08/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that land application had occurred on a steep slope within a site located in Prince Edward County. Charlie Swanson investigated together with the County Biosolids Monitor and County Administrator and found that slopes did not exceed the 15% requirement and land application was in compliance with the issued permit. In addition, there was no evidence of runoff from the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/02/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that required minimum buffer set-backs had been violated on a site located in Clarke County. Scott Haley investigated. The site inspection verified that biosolids were applied within buffer areas. Enforcement action taken. NOV issued on July 27, 2004. Consent Order agreement reached on October 29, 2004.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible tracking of biosolids along a road in Prince Edward County. The land applier was contacted and reported that road tracking was from soil adhering to transport truck tires and that the material had been cleaned from the road. The road surface was inspected by Jonathan Pickett of Prince Edward County and verified to be free of any accumulation of tracked material.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint of strong odors around a land application site in Loudoun County. Scott Haley inspected the site and found normal odors and buffer set-backs were in compliance with the issued permit. Additional information on land application operations was provided to the complainant.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/09/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint of strong odors and road tracking adjacent to a land application site in Bedford County. John Schofield investigated the complaint and found some road tracking but odors were normal and no permit violations were found. The land applier was instructed to remove all loose material from the road surface.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 6/08/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible illegal stockpiling of biosolids and that runoff was occurring from land application on a site located in Essex County. Scott Haley inspected the site, which was a permitted temporary storage site and found no evidence of runoff there, or at the land application areas, that included a tree site.
Inspection Report: 6/08/2004
Date of Complaint: 6/03/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about a residence becoming infested with meal worms during land application operations on a nearby farm in Amelia County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that the land application operations were located over 1/4 mile from the complainant’s home, at which a number of domestic animals and pets were maintained. The meal worms could have developed in the feed and hay stored in out-buildings near the residence and carried into the residence by pets.
Inspection Report: 6/04/2004
Date of Complaint: 6/01/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible un-permitted stockpiling of biosolids on a Frederick County site. Scott Haley investigated and found that Granulite pellets had been applied on the site as provided by the issued Distribution and Marketing Permit. The complainant subsequently complained of feeling ill and was requested to contact their family doctor who could later contact VDH.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/26/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about strong odors at a lumber yard located in Charlotte County. Nearby farm fields had received biosolids that were treated by an on-site lime mixing operation. The land applier reported that the Mixing Operations had resulted in odor production at the remote location that was ¼ mile or more from the lumber yard, but odors at the land application sites were minimal. The mixing operations had been suspended for several days prior to receipt of the complaint.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/20/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible runoff affecting groundwater around a site in Fauquier County. Scott Haley inspected the site and found no runoff and the site had been disced. The land applier was requested to inform the farmer that seeding was necessary to provide adequate cover in order to prevent nutrient and soil erosion losses.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 5/14/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that a large number of flying insects had been observed near land application sites in Charlotte County. Charlie Swanson investigated several sites and found fly populations considered to be normal for farming areas. The presence of cluster flys had been reported in the Madisonville area of the County, but no current or recent land application operations were or had been present in that area and apparently the cluster flys shown in several photos provided by the complainant appeared during the previous year when land application operations were present on several farms in the area. However, cluster flys are also found in farming areas in which no biosolids operations are present.
Inspection Report: 5/15/2004
Date of Complaint: 5/04/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids had been tracked along a road next to a land application site that was used for walking by local residents in Charlotte County. The complainant inquired about the risk to their health if they walked near the applied or tracked material. The complaint was referred to the District Health Director, Dr. Mark Levine, who recommended that the complainant avoid the land application area for at least 30 days following completion of operations.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/29/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that a land applier used the same site for two consecutive years for land application in Charlotte County. The County was informed that frequent-below-agronomic application was being used in those operations which were in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/28/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors and possible application rate and buffer set-back violations on a land application site located in King George County. Scott Haley investigated and found that proper buffers had been maintained and applied amounts were in compliance with the permit. Odors were judged to be normal.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/15/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that cattle had accessed a field within 30 days following land application on the site located in Northumberland County. Scott Haley investigated and verified that cattle had accessed the field in less than 30 days after application. Enforcement action was necessary. NOV issued April 26, 2004. Consent Order agreement reached on June 8, 2004.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 4/01/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint of road tracking from transport trucks leaving a land application site in Caroline County. The land applier reported that the road tracking was minimal and that upon a request, the volunteer fire department had declined to clean the road, but instead the tracking had been cleared by weather and traffic. Scott Haley investigated and confirmed that no loose or removable material was present on the road.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 3/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible contamination of a stream by runoff from a land application site located in Henry County. A County resident complained about a black substance he observed in Jumping Branch Creek downstream from the site. Charlie Swanson inspected the 50 acre permitted land application site. The fields had been spread with liquid biosolids and then allowed to dry for several days before spreading another additional pass of liquid biosolids. The finished fields appeared normal. A small creek was inspected between the two fields (the topographic features of the fields indicated drainage in that direction). The entire length of the stream was walked with the banks and adjoining areas inspected for any signs of runoff from the fields. The buffer area between the spread portion of the field and the creek had been disced and this area showed no signs of runoff. As no signs of any black liquid runoff were observed along the applied areas, the likelihood of runoff affecting the creek further downstream would not seem possible.
Inspection Report: 3/22/2004
Date of Complaint: 3/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a call from the County local monitor that a complaint had been made that biosolids were being applied to wet soils on a farm field located in Charlotte County. Cal Sawyer talked with the County Sheriff and the local monitor and requested that the operations cease until Charlie Swanson could inspect site and following the inspection, operations resumed on the portion of the site considered to be sufficiently dry.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/27/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that runoff from a temporary storage site located in Dinwiddie County was affecting water quality. The land applier reported that no biosolids were currently stored at the temporary storage pad. No inspection was deemed necessary at the time.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/19/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that runoff from a land reclamation site located in Dinwiddie County was causing erosion and affecting water quality. The site was inspected by Charlie Swanson who found that observed drainage and seeding issues would be addressed by Iluka Mining in accordance with their DMME permit and the land application study permit issued to VPI&SU, Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences (Virginia Tech). Cal Sawyer spoke with Mark Golf of DMME and Lee Daniels at Virginia Tech and confirmed that the land reclamation operations would remain in compliance with the issued permits.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/05/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about transport truck traffic passing in front of a residence located in Amelia County. Cal Sawyer contacted the land applier who agreed to request that its transport truck drivers slow down below posted speeds and to alternately use a split route that would be developed to reduce the truck traffic in the affected area. No site inspection was considered necessary at that time.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 2/02/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that strong odors from stockpiled biosolids were impacting residents of a home located in Henrico County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that Class A Pellets were stockpiled on the area in question which was located more than a quarter mile from the complainants home. No odors were detected at that residence.
Inspection Report: 2/02/2004
Date of Complaint: 1/22/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint of possible runoff from a temporary storage area located in Amelia County. The complaint also involved the buffer set-backs provided for the remote storage area. The land applier was contacted and stated that any stored biosolids would be covered if not applied prior to wet weather. The storage area was located within a wooded area that was permitted for land application. Mr. Ray York, local monitor, had recently inspected the site and the site would be inspected by VDH and the local monitor in the near future.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/14/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids application to a tree site located in Nottoway County had resulted in buffer set-back violations. The land applier was requested to submit a report on the alleged buffer violations. The requested report was submitted indicating that the land applier believed that a property line waiver was in effect, however it was not. The land applier agreed to make restitution to the adjacent land owner in lieu of removing the biosolids from the buffer area.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 1/06/2004
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that runoff from a land application site located in Caroline County may have contaminated mill ponds in the area. The field had been spread with biosolids in early December 2003. The complainant’s concern was that biosolids could have washed off this field into two ponds located down-gradient through a wetlands area toward Temple’s Mill pond, going south down the same road (Route 680 called rattle Trap Road). The two ponds are some distance from the spread field (estimated distance of 600 yards or more). Charlie Swanson inspected the site and witnessed very little erosion across the field. The area along the road had been buffered with about a 25 foot strip that had not been disced under. Charlie Swanson met with the complainant and viewed the mill ponds. The ponds exhibited a high level of suspended matter, but no dead fish were observed. The complainant stated that there was a bad odor from the ponds but Mr. Swanson did not detect any odors at that time. Mr. Swanson discussed runoff and contamination issues with the complainant, including the high inflow into the ponds resulting from the recent hurricane, Isabell, which may have hydraulically re-suspended sediment in the ponds.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/27/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids had been applied to steep slopes and too close to sinkhole areas within a permitted site located in Loudoun County. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that the areas of application in question were a matter of judgment as additional buffering could have been used, but there was no evidence of a permit violation on the site.
Inspection Report: 1/12/2003
Date of Complaint: 11/25/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors and possible ground water contamination near a land application site in Essex County. Mr. William Perry inspected the area and confirmed that the biosolids application was in compliance with the issued permit and was located about 300 feet from complainants residence.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/24/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible buffer set-back violations on a site adjacent to a river in Nottoway County. The local monitor, Russell Leslie, inspected the operations on the Glen Cove Farm and determined that the land application was in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 11/12/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that a land applier was operating during precipitation on a site located in Culpeper County. The local monitor for the County, Mr. Howard Gary, investigated the complaint and determined that the site was suitable at the time of land application.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/21/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that cattle were grazing on a Charlotte County pasture that had received biosolids and the 30 day access period restriction had not been complied with. The acting local monitor, Mr. Ray York, inspected the site and found a broken fence, but no cattle were observed on the pasture at that time. The land applier was requested to ensure that the fence had been adequately repaired and later reported to VDH that the fence repair was completed.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/17/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that land application operations on a site in Dinwiddie County had damaged trees on neighboring property and the land applier had not made corrective restitution as agreed. The land applier was contacted and stated that they were in the process of working out a reasonable settlement. A site inspection by VDH was not considered necessary as the local monitor had visited the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/17/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids had been stockpiled on a farm site adjacent to a road in Louisa County. Charlie Swanson inspected the site and found that Class A Pathogen Control Pellets were being applied to the farm site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/15/2003
Summary:
VDH received complaints that biosolids were being dumped illegally within a wooded area located in Amelia County. Mr. Ray York, local monitor for the County, investigated and determined that biosolids were actually being placed at a permitted temporary storage site. The complainants were informed of the existence of a permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/14/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids were being spread too close to a stream in Frederick County. Ms. Laura Shifflett, local monitor for the County, investigated and determined that proper buffers had been observed and so notified the complainant.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/11/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids were being stockpiled on sites in Louisa County resulting in odors at those locations. Mr. Anthony Carter, local monitor for the County, investigated and determined that the stockpiled material was Class A Pathogen Control Pellets. Charlie Swanson inspected the sites and requested that the pellets be land applied as soon as possible.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/11/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that land application operations on a tree site in Nottoway County had resulted in buffer set-back violations and damage to neighboring property. The property owner expressed concerns about possible health effects from the biosolids that could have been placed on their property. The land applier agreed to implement corrective actions in cooperation with the adjacent property owner and compensate for any verified damage to the adjacent property.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 10/10/2003
Summary:
VDH received complaints that biosolids were spilled along a road and improperly dumped on a site in Charlotte County, resulting in odors. Dave Waltrip, local monitor for the County, investigated and determined that biosolids were being processed on the site in accordance with the issued permit and that land application personnel were removing material tracked on the roadway from transport truck tires.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/30/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that that biosolids had been stockpiled on a farm site adjacent to a road in Frederick County resulting in odors. Laura Shifflett, local monitor for the County, investigated and determined that Class A Pathogen Control Pellets were being applied to the farm site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/25/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that runoff from a land application site in Madison County had contaminated a pond, resulting in a fish kill. Charlie Swanson investigated and determined that drainage from a portion of the land application site, over 400 feet from the pond, could flow into the pond. The cause of the fish kill was more likely due to rapid changes in water temperature and pH.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/17/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids were being illegally buried on a site in Dinwiddie County. The site was permitted for land application and a temporary storage pad was located on the site. However, at the time of the complaint no biosolids were being transported to the site. A site inspection was not considered necessary as DWE staff had recently inspected the site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 9/09/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids were tracked along a road in Bedford County. John Schofield inspected the roads and determined that some material had been smeared on the road surface by truck tires, but no loose material was present.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/27/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about land application operations on a site located in Louisa County. Cal Sawyer talked with the complainant who voiced concerns about odors from biosolids producing possible illness as children at the residence had experienced some health problems. The complainant stated that the adjacent Goodwin Farm was planning to apply biosolids pellets and that the pellets could be stockpiled near their residence access road. Cal Sawyer contacted the pellet supplier and requested that the farmer not stockpile pellets close to the complainants residence and that the pellets be spread as quickly as possible. The pellet supplier agreed to so instruct the farmer.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/22/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors around a site in located in Frederick County. Laura Shifflett, local monitor for the County investigated and determined that Class A Pathogen Control Pellets had been applied to the farm site.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/12/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about land application operations on a site located in Louisa County . Charlie Swanson inspected the site and talked with the complainant who voiced concerns about odors and ground water pollution from biosolids. The complainant also stated that the fly population around his horse stables had become larger since biosolids were land applied on the adjacent farm land. Charlie Swanson found that the land application operations were in compliance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/04/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about strong odors near a land application site located in Charlotte County. Ray York, acting local monitor for the County investigated and found that odors were strong at the location of lime mixing operations, but were not detectable at other locations beyond the large buffered site area.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 8/04/2003
Summary:
VDH received a report from the DEQ South Central Regional Office that cattle had been observed grazing on a site in Charlotte County that had recently received applications of biosolids. Additional information was received from the County staff and local monitor verifying that cattle had accessed the site on more than one occasion within 30 days of land application. Enforcement action was necessary. Consent Order agreement reached July 9, 2004.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/28/2003-8/01/2003
Summary:
VDH received a number of complaints about strong odors around a land application site located in Dinwiddie County, near the town of McKenny. Owners of several local businesses complained that the land application operations on the Bethea tree site could impact their activities. Charlie Swanson investigated and found that the higher than normal air temperature and humidity had resulted in strong odors around the wooded land application site. The land applier was contacted and requested to suspend operations and to add additional buffer set-backs for any future operations on the site. The land applier agreed to the request.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/23/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors and possible runoff from a land application site located in Fauquier County. Charlie Swanson inspected the land application sites near the Opal Area of the County and talked with the complainant. The land application area was approximately 200 acres, but was located about ¼ mile from the complainants residence. The application appeared to have been completed in accordance with the issued permit.
Inspection Report: 7/25/2003
Date of Complaint: 7/23/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about possible contamination of a small stream from runoff from a land application site located in Bedford County. John Schofield investigated and found that liquid biosolids had been applied to a steeply sloping pasture just prior to a heavy rainfall, resulting in movement of biosolids into drainageways adjacent to the land application site. The land applier was requested to modify their operational plan to address the runoff issues. The land applier representative attended an informal meeting with VDH and agreed to modify the permit by updating operational plans and provide the updated copies to VDH.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/23/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about odors and possible runoff from a land application site located in Frederick County. The material being applied to a farm field was identified as turkey litter.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/11/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint about a transport truck accident resulting in material removed from a road in Nottoway County.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/01/2003-7/03/2003
Summary:
VDH received complaints about leakage from containers on transport trucks resulting in material tracked along roads in Appomattox County that may have resulted in an accident investigated by the State Police. Charlie Swanson inspected biosolids containers stored at the railway siding located in Nelson County and found that rainwater accumulated on the plastic covers on the containers. The transport company was instructed to sweep all extraneous moisture off the containers before trucking them to land application sites.
Inspection Report: N/A
Date of Complaint: 7/01/2003
Summary:
VDH received a complaint that biosolids application in the Charlotte and Prince Edward County line area was adversely affecting the environment. Ray York, acting local monitor for the County investigated and found that odors were normal around the land application sites.
Inspection Report: N/A
