PHOTO: Ecocast Vermicast Waste Solutions plant. RNZ
A resident of Kawerau has likened the scent emanating from a nearby worm farm to the unpleasant odor of “pungent, raw sewage.” Mike Burrell is among 37 residents who have registered complaints with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in the last 10 days via its pollution hotline. The offensive smells are reported to originate from the Ecocast Vermicast Waste Solutions plant, situated approximately 2.5km northeast of the town center, where sewage is processed.
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A recent inspection revealed that the worm farm operation is not in compliance with the conditions specified in its resource consent. Burrell expressed the frustration of the entire town, stating, “The whole town’s had a gutsful.” He recounted encounters with residents, including a pregnant woman at the supermarket, who experienced nausea due to the pervasive stench. Burrell insisted on immediate action, emphasizing, “The town demands immediate action, today.”
While acknowledging that the odor has intensified in the past two weeks, Burrell pointed out that the smell has been noticeable for years. He criticized the lack of public consultation and notification regarding the worm farm, saying, “They don’t need to consult the public. That’s where it fails right there. We don’t even get to put in a submission in regards to having a s*** farm anywhere near our town.”
The plant on McKee Road is recognized as the largest worm-farming operation in New Zealand, initially established in 2007 and now covering 24 hectares. It processes over 40,000 tonnes of biosolids annually, utilizing a combination of waste wood pulp fiber and biosolids from various Bay of Plenty council wastewater systems. The end product, vermicast, undergoes safety testing before being marketed as fertilizer.
Another resident described the odor as resembling a farm smell but more intense. She noted the irregular occurrence of the smell over the past two weeks, attributing it to changing wind directions. The regional council’s acting compliance manager, Trudy Richards, acknowledged the non-compliance of the site during a recent visit. Richards stated that efforts are underway to address the issue, improve management practices, and implement odor mitigation measures.
Ecocast manager Tom McDowell confirmed collaboration with the regional council to resolve the problem. The regional council encourages community members to report offensive odors or pollution incidents promptly through its 24-hour Pollution Hotline at 0800 884 883.
SOURCE: 1NEWS