I was very frustrated and disturbed after reading an article entitled “B. C. compost operation to take pressure off abattoirs,” by Shannon Moneo (WP,Feb. 3.)
Many of the residents living near this facility have serious concerns and have signed a petition of opposition. The property is zoned rural and it is bordered by properties in the rural residential classification.
This facility is to receive waste materials from three of the largest commercial abattoirs in the area. We have asked for proof that this type of facility using the transform compost technology is safe. … The facility will essentially be self-regulated with oversight being provided by a qualified professional.
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This project is essentially an experiment and if it fails, according to Investment Agriculture B.C.’s executive director Peter Donker, “we’re hooped,” which to me is an overstatement.
To put things into perspective, a representative from a local abattoir has stated “this is an experiment that is only saving us pennies.” In fact, a half a cent a pound.
The residents have repeatedly asked for a hydro geological survey to be done on the area surrounding the facility to investigate the possibility that bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella could leach into the water table.
In your article the proponent spoke about a reduced carbon footprint through reduced truck transport. He failed to mention that the composting of organic wastes results in the formation of products that affect air quality.
This facility uses only a simple, single layer biofilter system, which consists of a six to 12 inch layer of wood chips covering the rotting material below, without provision for secondary air treatment.
Improper management can result in anaerobic composting, which results in a failed process and resulting putrid stench.
This facility will require open doors to allow for proper ventilation of exhaust and process gases for worker safety and as such we are very concerned about vector transmission of pathogens.…
I can accept the fact that we live in a rural area and that we can expect odours associated with normal farming practices. However, red meat waste composting stretches the definition of a normal farming practice, especially with most of the raw material coming from off-farm commercial sources.
Spa Hills is implementing a commercial /industrial facility in a farming community, very much unlike their predecessors. Area residents place a high value on our right to clean air, clean water and an environment free of biohazards and feel these precious rights should not be treated like commodities.
The residents of this area have legitimate, substantiated concerns about the safety of this facility and resent the implication of a dozen backyard whiners complaining about manure odour, as portrayed in the article.
Honesty is a virtue of paramount importance, especially when dealing with matters involving public health and well being.
Democracy has failed Silver Creek.
Doug Wrench,Salmon Arm, B.C.
