Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- The lagoons still hold over 120 million gallons of water and over 20 years’ worth of sludge.
- Changes in weather, especially in spring and fall, can stir up gases from the bottom, which causes odors.
- No. The main gas, hydrogen sulfide, smells strong even at low levels.
- Air testing shows the concentrations are far below levels that would pose a health risk.
- The lagoons are nearing the end of their design life after decades of use.
- This work is part of a long-term upgrade plan that’s been in place for years—not due to new development or growth.
- Until future phased improvements are completed, they are still used to store treated water for irrigation use and hold solid waste in an oxygenated water.
- Yes, odors will be greatly reduced after decommissioning.
- Occasional smells may still happen during maintenance or future work, but they should be infrequent and temporary.
- Two sources: the sludge being pumped out and processed; gases escaping from the ponds during cleaning
- Contractors will use odor-reducing chemicals, but some smells may be unavoidable especially in nearby areas.
- Crews must remove decades of built-up sludge while the treatment plant keeps running.
- The lagoons will also send large volumes of water through the system.
- Weather conditions can slow the process.
- One pond will still be used to store solid waste before disposal but only until future improvements are completed.
- Treated water will continue to be stored and reused for irrigation.
Why does it still smell near the lagoons?
Are the odors harmful?
Why is this project happening now?
Why are the lagoons still in use?
Will the smells go away once the project is done?
What’s causing odors during construction?
Why does the project take several months?
What happens to the lagoons afterward?