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DNR SLEUTHING FOR EXCESSIVE LIVESTOCK ODORS UNDER STUDY For more information contact the DNR’s Brian Button at 515-281-7832. DES MOINES - State inspectors are testing odor levels and responding to odor complaints as part of a comprehensive study to determine air quality near large animal feeding operations. The effort began in April, after Department of Natural Resources inspectors received training and certification for odor detection methods. The odor study stems from state legislation that called for comprehensive reviews of air quality near animal feeding operations. Hydrogen sulfide and ammonia gas monitoring began in April of 2002 as part of the effort. "We are studying worst case odor conditions near large animal confinements, during manure applications and after odor complaints from nearby homeowners," said Sean Fitzsimmons, who heads the DNR’s air monitoring program. After the field study, the DNR may develop control programs if the study reveals odors are excessive. "The study data will determine if odor downwind of animal feeding operations, manure spreading and during times when complaints are received is excessive," said Fitzsimmons. So far, 54 tests have been conducted under the ongoing study, with eight testing positive for excessive odor. To conduct the review, 34 DNR field staff from six regional offices across Iowa underwent daylong training after those with unusually high or low smell sensitivities were eliminated by controlled tests. "Each inspector is certified annually and must pass monthly sensitivity tests," said Fitzsimmons. The testing equipment is calibrated and certified annually. The equipment, known as olfactometers or scentometers, are hand-held devices that dilute odorous air with filtered air. The inspector inhales the sample to determine odor concentrations. The devices have been in use around the nation for 40 years. The odorous air is diluted seven times with filtered air. If an odor is detected after dilution, it is excessive, a standard used in several states. Positive tests are followed with upwind measurements and a second downwind test at least 15 minutes but no more than 60 minutes from the first test. Wind data is also collected. St. Croix Sensory, a Minnesota based company, conducted training for the DNR. The company has over ten years of experience, training hundreds of government and industry employees and citizen organizations. All of the air quality studies are required under legislation passed in 2002. Iowans can view odor data results at www.iowacleanair.com. To report excessive agricultural related odors, call the regional DNR field office.
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