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4. At the May 19, 2009, meeting, French Camp residents expressed concern over the <br /> odors and flies that were present on the Olivera Egg Ranch. <br /> 5. In response to the May 19, 2009, meeting, I had a discussion with Mr. Ed Olivera, <br /> owner of the Olivera Egg Ranch. I expressed concern regarding the number of birds housed at the <br /> ranch versus the lagoon size/volume. There were other issues that were discussed regarding lagoon <br /> health, such as pH and Salinity <br /> 6. I had multiple conversations with Mr.Olivera regarding the lagoon and possible steps <br /> to increase efficiency of the lagoon to handle the manure and reduce odors.The discussions included <br /> the possibility of dredging the manure lagoon sludge and grit. Mr.Olivera mentioned that he would <br /> like to have the pond dredged in previous conversations as early as the last routine inspection on <br /> September 29, 2008. Mr. Olivera's concerns at that time centered on wanting to increase to lagoon <br /> capacity for wet weather months and wanted to prevent a release of manure from the lagoon. The <br /> more recent conversation regarding lagoon capacity included lagoon excavation as a way to increase <br /> lagoon health. I suggested that some of the layer houses be converted to handle the manure dry and <br /> reduce the amount of manure going into the lagoon as a way to increase lagoon health. Mr. Olivera <br /> indicated that he would like to excavate the pond first and then if necessary, make changes to the <br /> houses to reduce the manure load to the lagoon.Other factors that affect lagoon health were part of the <br /> conversation,such as pH and salinity.The pH of the lagoon was tested using a pH meter and found to <br /> consistent with recommendations found in studies on lagoon health. Based on analytical results <br /> provided by Mr. Olivera indicated that the salinity of the lagoon at the Olivera Egg Ranch is above <br /> recommended levels found in those same studies. Although there was concern that the excavation <br /> process would increase the odors and flies for a short period of time,the goal was to increase lagoon <br /> volume and improve the lagoon health,and thereby reduce lagoon odors. Mr. Olivera indicated that <br /> he would like to start excavation as soon as he could find a contractor. <br /> 00707962.WPD 2 <br /> DECLARATION OF ROBERT MCCLELLON <br />