Residents in a Fredericton neighborhood are expressing frustration over persistent foul odors emanating from a sewage treatment facility since late spring. Vaughan Munn, a resident in the area, described the smell as stomach-churning, particularly attributing it to the transportation of biosolids from the Barker Street Water & Sewer Utility plant in Devon.
The plant, which processes over 21 million liters of wastewater daily, separates biosolids for composting and reuse in topsoil production. Munn highlighted that the odors intensify during transportation, especially when trucks carrying the biosolids pass through the neighborhood.
City officials have acknowledged the issue and are actively seeking solutions to address the odor problem. Munn lamented the impact of the stench on outdoor activities, noting a decline in community engagement due to the unpleasant smell.
Another resident, Stacey Gee, who previously resided near a similar facility in Ontario, expressed shock at the stark difference in odor levels, emphasizing the need to wear a mask when venturing outdoors to combat the noxious fumes.
Marc Colwell, the supervisor at the water and sewer utility, explained that the odor exacerbates in summer due to heightened bacterial activity, necessitating extended plant operation hours. To mitigate the smell, the plant has adjusted its operational schedule to concentrate the odor-producing activities during specific hours of the day.
Colwell mentioned ongoing efforts to explore chemical treatments for odor control, underscoring the time-consuming nature of implementing changes in the treatment process. Despite challenges, the city remains committed to resolving the odor issue for the well-being of the neighborhood residents.
