SITE INFORMATION AND CORRESPONDENCE

Home Browse Search

CENTRAL VALLE*EGIONAL WATER QUALITY C&TROL BOARD INSPECTION REPORT Report Date: 9 August 2000 DISCHARGER: CITY OF ESCALON LOCATION &COUNTY: ESCALON, SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY CONTACT(S): DOUG STlDHAM, CITY ENGINEER INSPECTION DATE: 2 AUGUST 2000 INSPECTED BY: ANNE OLSON ACCOMPANIED BY: OBSERVATIONS AND COMMENTS: The inspection was made in response to numerous odor complaints from residents along the south bank of the Stanislaus River across from the City of Escalon's wastewater treatment plant. Before going to the facility, I drove by the gated portion of the Del Rio East development (along the east side of the golf course). This residential development is along the south bank of the Stan' River. The weather was very hot and slightly humid with a slight breeze from the north-northeast. I detected no odor at this off-site location. Because the part of the neighborhood that is closest to the City of Escalon wastewater treatment plant is gated, I was not able to enter to further investigate the level of odor nearer to the plant. I proceeded north on McHenry and turned west on River Road to go to the wastewater treatment plant. I arrived at the plant at approximately 4:00 p.m. I detected no odors along the way nor as I entered the facility site from the north (upwind). At the plant, I met with Doug Stidham, Mike Garrett (Public Works Superintendent) and Jared (Grade II operator). Doug explained that the odor problem originated when they had a brief, planned shutdown to construct electrical improvements last week. The ponds became aerobic during that period and they have not been able to get them to stabilize. All aerators are now running 24 hours per day, and the dissolved oxygen concentration rose above 1.0 mg/L briefly and then dropped back down. They feel they may be having pH problems due to the nature of the tomato processing waste. Escalon Packers generates the majority of their influent right now and does not have a pH control system. Odor on-site at the downwind end of the main aeration ponds (about 1/2 mile upwind of the closest residence) was moderately strong and unpleasant. Doug stated the odor hasn't improved for the last two days or so. He believes that it would be pretty unpleasant for residents along the south side of the river. The wastewater in the aeration ponds was brownish red with some red and white foam. Although the tomato color was apparent, there were no gross vegetable solids present (see photographic log, attached). They have retained a certified Grade V operator to consult with them on 3 August 2000, and will also talk to a vendor who claims to have a biomass accelerator product that will help them. SUMMARY: Although I did not smell objectionable odors beyond the property boundary, I did not have access to the most sensitive receptor area (the gated community). There have been