DEC Region 5 Spills Response Unit immediately responded to reports of numerous complaints of strong odors detected in the area surrounding the Gloversville-Johnstown Wastewater Treatment Facility.  The source of the odor was determined to be related to operation of the facility’s Contact Absorption Settling Thickening (CAST) system.  The system was installed to help treat high strength dairy waste from nearby dairy manufacturers.    

DEC staff issued a Notice of Violation for failing to operate the facility in a manner to minimize odors and nuisance conditions, and allowing emissions which unreasonably interfere with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property, and will require corrective measures to immediately address the odors.

The odors observed and currently abated and DEC will continue to monitor the situation to ensure public health and the environment are protected.