Complaint ID 105461 — Public Copy
Report generated April 11, 2026 7:59 AM.
On this Page
Status: Approved/Closed
- Complaint Received
- October 10, 2023 9:00 AM
- Assigned Office
- Coastal District
- Complaint Closed
- June 5, 2025 10:26 AM
- Review Comments
- [Not entered]
Nature of Complaint
Strong smell coming from one of the nearby plants, the smell has been worse in the past week even coming into the house at times. The caller stated that the smell was similar to when there was a release at the nearby turpentine plant.
- Primary Concern
- Air Quality Control
- Secondary Concern
- [Not entered]
Complaint Location
- Location of Complaint
- Ebenezer Road, Effingham, GA
- City of Complaint
- Springfield
- County of Complaint
- Effingham County
Source
- Source Name
- DRTA
- Facility ID Number
- [Not entered]
Source Contact
- Contact Name
- John Myers
- Source Address
- 400 Gov. Treutlen Dr.
Rincon, Georgia 31326
Actions
Follow-Up Investigation
29‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
It is recommended that CTS ID 105461 be closed at this time. Georgia EPD is continuing to investigate the complaint; however, CTS ID 105461 is being closed which will allow the public to view complaint actions up to this point in time. Complaint ID 112644 will be used for new complaints related to odor near Ebenezer Road.
All associated TO15 AQ cannister grab samples taken by EPD during the time period of this complaint are attached. Previous associated complaints that were investigated by Coastal District are available under CTS #87613, #95584, #102050, #107095, and #110900.
EPD Air Protection Branch Data and Modeling Unit completed a modeling analysis (i.e. back-trajectory analysis) in October 2024 to locate potential sources of odor in the Rincon area. The modeling results are summarized in the attached memo.
Other
8‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Phil Kieffer:
Odor at 8:00 AM on Mill Pond Rd. Wind 8 mph from NW. "stench is absolutely terrible"
Other
7‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Torri Werkheiser:
Odor at 1:20 PM on Old Augusta/Ft Howard. Wind 17 mph from SW. "mixture of cat pee and fertilizer odor.**Redacted due to medical information** and had to leave house'"
Other
6‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Theresa Richter:
Odor at 11:00 AM on Cubbedge dr. "smell is strong and takes my breath away"
Other
3‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from anonymous:
Odor at 5:30 PM in Shadowbrook neighborhood.
Other
3‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Joni Anderson:
Odor at 7:00 PM on Willow Brook Ln. "Chemical odor. **Redacted due to medical information** When I left the area, symptoms subsided"
Other
3‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Michelle Frimat:
Odor at 6:00 PM in Shadowbrook neighborhood. "odor happening since 12:30AM. **Redacted due to medical information**. Intensified from 5-6PM"
Other
3‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Torri Werkheiser:
Odor at 9:00 PM on Waldhour Rd. "smells like cat urine"
Other
1‑Apr‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Marvin Hughes:
Odor at 8:30 AM on Cobbleton Dr. **Redacted due to medical information**
Other
31‑Mar‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Sharee McKenzie:
Odor at 8:00 PM on Ebenezer Rd. " **Redacted due to medical information**. Incredibly strong odor"
Other
31‑Mar‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Jeff Johnson:
Odor at 11:00 PM on Cubbedge Dr. "Noxious odor. **Redacted due to medical information**"
Other
31‑Mar‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Complaint from Mark Seman:
Odor at 8:00 AM on Lexus Ct. "toxic stench"
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Mar‑2025 by David Lyle
Coastal District received an email from Ms. Sharee McKenzie regarding odor near Ebenezer Road at the 123 Cobbleton Dr, Rincon, GA 31326. Email message is below:
"Hello,
The smell of DRT woke me up in my house. ***Redacted due to medical information***. I live at 123 Cobbleton Dr, Rincon, GA 31326.
Neighbors are reporting the same as well as others in Ramsey Landing. Please see the text from Anne. She lives in Ramsey.
I want to report this and I want this to be a new report. I don’t want this linked with the noxious odor from the spill in 2024. This is not linked to that spill. None of the reports I’ve made recently are linked to that. By linking these new reports with the past “ongoing” investigation, this new issue is none seen for what it actually is— something new.
I have no idea why it is extremely strong and strong enough to come into our homes today. But, the last time it was this strong there was a spill. I hope someone does their job and checks for waste water leaking or a chemical spill.
This is horrible that we have to live like this. "
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Mar‑2025 by David Lyle
Coastal District received an email from Ms. Michelle Johns regarding odor near Ebenezer Road at the Shadowbrook Subdivision. Email message is below:
"The DRT chemical fumes have entered my home this morning. No windows or doors were open during the night. There is still the noxious odor outside and in my home currently 8:55 am 03/07/2025. There are many reports on social media of other people in the community experiencing the same strong odor. Shadowbrook Neighborhood, Springfield Ga. "
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Mar‑2025 by David Lyle
Coastal District received call from Ms. Sue Telfer regarding odor near Ebenezer Road. She suspects that the odor is coming from DRT America. Advised caller that Coastal District conducted a site visit on 3/7/2025 in response to this complaint and 4 other similar complaints received on morning of 3/7/2025. Effingham EMA conducted a site visit on morning of 3/7/2025.
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Mar‑2025 by David Lyle
Coastal District received call from Brenda Iwanski regarding odor during morning of 3/7/2025. She suspects that the odor is DRT America. The odor was first noticed at about 6 AM and woke her husband. The wind was calm at time of odor. Advised caller that Coastal District conducted a site visit on 3/7/2025 in response to this complaint and 4 other similar complaints received on morning of 3/7/2025. Effingham EMA conducted a site visit on morning of 3/7/2025.
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Mar‑2025 by David Lyle
Coastal District received a call from Ms. Katie Whitten (912-754-7757, ext 1626) of Ebenezer Middle School. She explained to District receptionist that children and staff at school are complaining about the smell and ***Redacted due to medical information***. Returned her call and left a message. Also, called Dr. Yancy Ford, School Superintendent and left a message. Coastal District conducted a site visit in response to this complaint and 4 others received on morning of 3/7/2025. Effingham EMA conducted a site visit on morning of 3/7/2025.
Follow-Up Investigation
6‑Mar‑2025 by Heather Lowery
Field notebooks for air quality sampling events during November 2023 - October 2024 have been scanned and uploaded to the attachments.
Follow-Up Investigation
18‑Feb‑2025 by Heather Lowery
EPD representatives made a site visit to the facility over questions raised about the stormwater operations. Attached is the site visit memo. Observations found the facility to be in compliance with their industrial stormwater permit.
Other
8‑Nov‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from CTS #110900
Noah Frimat, 414 Shadowbrook Circle, Springfield, GA 31329
"Bad odor like a chemical smell. caller thinks the smell is coming from DRT America chemical plant"
Other
21‑Oct‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Sara Powell
"Hi- today on ebenezer rd heading towards 21 right under industrial at 8:25 am the smell was horrible. Had to turn off outside air from my car and hold my breath. This has to stop. What changes has drt made and have they complete the waste water change. Why is this still happening "
Follow-Up Investigation
18‑Oct‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Odor at containment #2. Facility was "idle" per facility contact.
Temp was 61'F; the wind 9 mph NNE;
RTO- 1725.8'F, 175.7 gpm, 33 in. H2O in scrubber. pH 7.9
Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.1 ppm.
Other
1‑Oct‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Michelle Johns,
414 shadow brooks, springfield, Georgia 31329,
"unbearable foul odor in air, ***Redacted due to medical information***."
Other
28‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Sara Powell
"Once again yet even stronger tonight 8:55pm the smell is ***Redacted due to medical information*** coming into shadowbrook circle entering the neighborhood. It literally makes me want to ***Redacted due to medical information***. Stop pointing our families stop drt now"
Other
28‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Sara Powell
"The wonderful drt smell is at my front door in shadowbrook again. This has to stop my poor child has a ***Redacted due to medical information***. Reporting now 5:36 Saturday Sept 28"
Other
27‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Sara Powell
"Hello. 10 pm tonight in shadowbrook development it smells horrible. All power is out and we need our windows open and it just smells. This has to be stopped. Please don't let this company keep poluting our families. Sara powell"
Other
26‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Michelle Frimat
"Writing to report that the chemical odor coming from DRT currently is horrific. It is seeping into our home even though we have no open doors or windows. I live in Shadowbrook off of Log Landing and 21 in Springfield and I have written many times to the coastal office.
The non emergency line for the sheriffs dept has been called as the odor is causing ***Redacted due to medical information***
The odor is present at the corner of Ebenezer and 21 and is coming from the DRT area.
This is the same strong chemical odor that has always been present and associated with DRT.
I wrote Mrs, Beth Stevenson yesterday about the odor episode we experienced then. I have also made at least 2 other reports to the epd complaint link in the past few
weeks. This issue has not been resolved and is getting stronger every time my family has to endure the odor.
DRT themselves updated their get to know DRT site with a leak update at the end of August. Was anyone informed of this at the epd?
I sent the information to Ms Stevenson, though I understand she is out of the office currently.
I am just concerned about the potential health impacts of these strong incidents and breathing in this odor which ***Redacted due to medical information***.
it seems no one from epd is here during these incidents and no one has checked any area north of 21.
The odor increases when you pass Ebenezer creek over the bridge at Log Landing and has been the trend the last few times we have smelled it. It also rained yesterday when the odor was bad, and today is has been raining for some time.
I am concerned that something is occurring at the plant now as the smell is just absurdly strong.
Thanks for your time.
Thank you for your time "
Follow-Up Investigation
24‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Odor at containment #2 coming from the blow off of the bleach totes which are used during a shut down. Facility was shut down. The facility lost scrubber flow at 1:40am on 9/24/2024. Anticipated time of operation is 6:00pm 9/24/2024. There were a few small patches of an oily film on the surface of containment #2.
Temp was 82'F; the wind 6 mph SW;
RTO- 395, 144 gpm, 34.8 in. H2O in scrubber.
Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.1 ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
18‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Odor at containment #2. Facility was operating.
Temp was 77'F; the wind 3 mph SW;
RTO- 1725, 150.8 gpm, 34 in. H2O in scrubber.
Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.1 ppm.
Slight odor of chemical/sulfur on arrival to EMS.
Follow-Up Investigation
11‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Odor upon arrival at facility. Facility was operating. There were a few small patches of an oily film on the surface of containment #2.
Temp was 74'F; the wind 8 mph NE;
RTO- 1733.1, 149.2 gpm, 36.4 in. H2O in scrubber.
Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.2 ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
6‑Sep‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Slight odor upon arriving at facility. Facility was operating.
Temp was 74'F; the wind 8 mph NE;
RTO- 1725, 150.5 gpm, 1.6 in. H2O.
Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.2 ppm.
Other
30‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Sara Powell
"Hello - the smell was absolutely horrible at 8:26 am today on ebenezer rd near industrial rd. Close to 21. ***Redacted due to medical information***. For the safety of our families we need to have this resolved asap. There is no reason this has gone on as long as it has. What was the results of all the meters placed in the area ? Is anything being done to stop drt from hurting all of us ? Thank you sara powell"
Other
28‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Complaint received from Mark Corner on August 28th, 2024.
"He lives in Cobblton S/D off Ebenezer Road in Effingham. He stated that a terrible odor began about an hour ago (maybe 8:00 AM) this morning. He suspects it is coming from DRT. "
Follow-Up Investigation
27‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. No odor upon arriving at facility. Facility was not operating; shut down for upgrades/maintenance.
Temp was 82'F; the wind 4 mph NE; Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0 ppm.
Other
23‑Aug‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
John Myers - DRT Plant Manager emailed EPD:
"I wanted to notify you that a heat exchanger on-site experienced a failure resulting in a release of CST into secondary containment. No material contacted the soil or left containment. We have stopped the process equipment and are actively responding to the situation. We are reclaiming released material and applying treatment for any odors generated. At this time, I do not know if any odors have left the site but wanted to be transparent about the situation and our response. "
Follow-Up Investigation
20‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Odor upon arriving at facility. Facility was operating. Facility is being audited. Randy is on leave of absence due to major car accident.
Temp was 83'F; the wind 5 mph NE; RTO- 1735, 150 gpm, 38 in. H2O. Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0.2 ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
15‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Slight odor at facility. Facility was operating. Containment #2 had rainbow sheen on water.
Temp was 82'F; the wind 7 mph NE; RTO- 1728.8, 153 gpm, 34.8 in H2O. Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-0 ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
2‑Aug‑2024 by Heather Lowery
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), Ebenezer Middle School, and DRT at containment #2. Slight Odor at the facility. The facility was doing maintenance; cleaning out tank/pipes for mildew. Temp was 86'F; the wind 6 mph WSW; RTO- 1726, 149.8 gpm, 34 in H2O. Multi-rae readings: O2- 20.9%, H2S- 0.0, VOC-1.4ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
25‑Jul‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 83'F; the wind is 4 SSW, RTO - 168'F, 163.5 gpm, 35.8 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.0ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
15‑Jul‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 86'F; the wind is 5 WSW, RTO - 113.7'F, 52.1 gpm, 42.3 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Jul‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 84'F; the wind is 3 W/SW, RTO - 1738'F, 148 gpm, 39.3 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.0ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
2‑Jul‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 76'F; the wind is 10 SW, RTO - 1731'F, 149 gpm, 1.5 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.0ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
28‑Jun‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 99'F; the wind is 2 NE, RTO - 1728'F, 146.6 gpm, 33.8in H2O.
Follow-Up Investigation
17‑Jun‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. No odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 84'F; the wind is 8 W, RTO - 1737'F, 145 gpm, 37.4 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.5ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
14‑Jun‑2024 by Emily Duff
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. The facility was operating during the visit. RTO - 1728'F, 144 gpm, 38.3 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm.
Follow-Up Investigation
3‑Jun‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Slight odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit. Temp was 80'F; the wind is 5 NE, RTO - 1729'F, 143 gpm, 37.1 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.9-1.8ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
28‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Odor at the facility. The facility was not operating during the visit. Spill into containment #1. Temp was 80'F; the wind is 9 SE, RTO - 1727'F, 146 gpm, 34.6 in H2O. Multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.3-2.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around. Slight odors in parts of neighborhoods.
Other
27‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Complaint received from Michelle Johns;
"It is Memorial Day and my family and friends are outside. The past 20 minutes of this odor have been horrendous. So much so that we had to come inside my home instead of enjoying our time outside for the rest of the evening. There is a slight breeze coming from this way. These fumes are possibly the worst we have smelled in a few days.
8pm "
Other
22‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Complaint received from Michelle Johns;
"It is currently 11pm. I live in Shadowbrook in Springfield Ga. The odor is again present on my property and in at least phase 1 of my neighborhood and onto Log Landing rd and the shadowbrook entrance. It started around 10:15pm and is currently present. A new thing that has been happening that seems to coincide with the odor is a vacuum or pump sound that is a loud whirring that also comes from that direction.
There is a slight breeze when I face the direction of the plant that is coming from that way into my yard. I have notified the city manager of Springfield of this in an email I just sent to him. Every night around 11pm the odor ramps up and has been consistent. This is the same time frame as the very bad odors in January, February, and The beginning of March and started up again the first week of April and has been present on a regular basis since then.
i have asked a previous question of when and where the air samples are being taken and if any are taken in the later hours of the day. I have not received a response to that.
Thanks for you time once again "
Follow-Up Investigation
21‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Slight odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 73'F; the wind is 8 SW, RTO - 1727'F, 145.5 gpm, 35.7 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
14‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Complaint received from Michelle Johns;
The odor is present at my home now, 11:30am 5/14/24 - Shadowbrook Circle
Other
14‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Complaint received from Michelle Johns;
Odor was present down 21 off of Fort Howard Road in Rincon last night around 7pm. 5/13/24.
Follow-Up Investigation
14‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Slight odor at the facility. The facility was not operating during the visit. Temp was 73'F; the wind is 7 SW, RTO - 1733'F, 145 gpm, 34.4 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.2ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
10‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Sharee McKenzie;
The noxious odor of Drt is at my home at 123 Cobbleton Dr, Rincon, GA 31326. I am in my car getting ready to leave and the smell has also engulfed my car.
Other
7‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Sharee McKenzie;
Recently, the smells have been coming back. At approximately 5:15pm today, at my home at 123 Cobbleton Dr, Rincon, GA 31326 I smelled the strong smell of turpentine- a cat urine mixed with tar smell. I left my home. Later, my friend who lives is Shadowbrook said the smell was now at her home. I drove there and arrived at 10:11pm. I dropped a pin to Phil Kieffer, District 5 county commissioner to let him know exactly where the odor was. He was unable to go himself experience the smell, but said he’d try to send someone to verify the smell. There also was a lot of machinery noise, but nothing beyond a normal level— just notable. Please respond that this has been documented.
Other
7‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Michelle Johns;
The strong odor is on my street , Shadowbrook Circle in Springfield, Ga, once again. It has been on the stronger side for at least an hour. The DRT odor we have smelled for months. It started up around 9:30pm. It is currently 10:52pm as I am writing and it is present.
A local commissioner has been notified of the odor presence in the Shadowbrook neighborhood. I attempted to make yet another epa complaint, but the site is down for maintenance at the present time.
My home is one of the closer homes in my neighborhood to the DRT facility
Is there anyway I can get a confirmation that anyone is reading the multiple email complaints I have made?
Thank you
Follow-Up Investigation
6‑May‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Slight odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 78'F; the wind is 7 NE, RTO - 1729'F, 152 gpm, 36.1 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA from Lucinda Spencer;
Horrible chemical smell on Ebenezer Rd ***Redacted due to medical information***
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA from Jordan Scarpittl;
The air smell horrible every morning. When the smell is present ***Redacted due to medical information***. It gets so bad I can not send my children to the bus stop ages 4 & 5 My 5 year old complains about ***Redacted due to medical information***. None of this stated happening until we moved here and this plant opened up. We are scared this is effecting our health and will cause serious damage.
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA from Michelle Johns;
Tip or Complaint: The smell increased in my area of Shadowbrook in Springfield Ga last night after 11 pm. There were also noises from that direction that I have heard in the past. Others are complaining online about the smell in shadowbrook today. It is not only coming on the wind, but stays in the air regardless. It was also worse towards the creek/bridge area of Log Landing road as I was coming home shortly before 11pm last night May 5th. I was only gone a short while from my neighborhood from 10pm-11pm. And while the smell was present before that, The odor did increase exponentially after I arrived back after 11pm.
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA from MIkki;
For all of last week, there were been strong fumes at the intersection of Ebenezer Road and Highway 21. It immediately caused me and my daughter ***Redacted due to medical information***after breathing in the fumes at the intersection. ***Redacted due to medical information***. The fumes drift over to the nearby Middle school and were strong and also present when I dropped my daughter off at school in the morning last week. I am hearing news today (from other parents)that the fumes are just as bad or worse as they were last week and are continuing. Please send help to inspect the plant to determine if there is another leak.
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Melanie;
106608 incident #
My son came home from Ebenezer Middle school 3 days last week with ***Redacted due to medical information***. I will be writing the school a note stating the reason my son is not at school is because of the horrendous odors they are allowing our kids to breathe in. The school board and your company can figure it out.
Melanie
Other
6‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA and Brunswick email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Sara Powell
Hi- I am reporting the foul odor outside my home today. I live in shadowbrook at 201 redwood ct springfield. I went to let my dog out and it was horrible. ***Redacted due to medical information*** I am so worried about our current and future health. This smell isn't just a smell it is a toxin and it needs to be removed. It is may 6th 2024. Drt was to enclose their waste water in March to eliminate this occuranfe or to be fined if not done. It is not done and what consequences have they received- none- however the residents certainly have one- the smell.
Other
5‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA and Brunswick email coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov from Michelle Johns;
It is 3:30 in the morning on May 5 2024. The smell in Shadowbrook neighborhood is overwhelming. The odor was bad last night also around 9pm on Log Landing and only got worse as we headed towards the creek area. This odor has been present all of this week. We are being told they are doing repairs but the obnoxious odors being emitted are as bad as they were during January and February of this year. I have made an epa report as well.
Other
2‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
via email from Air Branch; the caller left a voice message
"Hey, this is Courtney Mackenzie, and I'm an Effingham County resident. I just wanted you guys to know that the smell is absolutely putrid around this DRT Plant. "
Other
2‑May‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via email from Ryan Gallagher (Air Branch) on 5/2/24;
She referenced the DRT America facility and made a comment in her phone call that the odor was making her feel ***Redacted due to medical information***as she was driving around today
Follow-Up Investigation
30‑Apr‑2024 by Michelle Dennis
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Slight odor at the facility. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 77'F; the wind is 4 S, RTO - 1727'F, 152 gpm, 35.5 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
24‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A strong odor, containment with sheen being addressed, and a slight odor also in the Cobbleton neighborhood. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 62'F; the wind is 5 W, RTO - 1725'F, 151 gpm, 34.8 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.2ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
18‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 79'F; the wind is 0 mph, RTO - 1727'F, 149 gpm, 34.1 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.3ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
14‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 4/14/2024 from Sara Powell:
The smell is at my home 827 lmao sunday april 14. Back of shadowbrook neighborhood. 201 redwood ct. I thought they contained their waste water at drt- what is happening that we are smelling this again ?
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 68'F; the wind is 6 W, RTO - 1733'F, 151.7 gpm, 33.8 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
8‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 4/8/2024 from Sara Powell:
Hello, I have not smelled the horrible effingham ga smell in a while but today it made ***Redacted due to medical information***
Follow-Up Investigation
2‑Apr‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 76'F; the wind is 3 W, RTO - 1735'F, 150gpm, 34.7 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.2% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.1ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
11‑Mar‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm, where it was the entire property in the past. The facility was operating during the visit, and four transport takers were loading and unloading. Temp was 51'F; the wind is 8 N, RTO - 1728'F, 150.9gpm, 33.8 in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.2% and H2S- 0.0, VOC- 0.3ppm. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Follow-Up Investigation
27‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm where in the past it was the entire property. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport tankers were also loading and unloading. Temp was 61'F; the wind is5 SSW, RTO - 1732'F, 160gpm, 35.1in H2O. multi-rae reading were O2- 20.7% and H2S- 0.0. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around. NOTE: While taking VOC levels (moving between 30-190ppm), it was noted that containment #2 had an appearance that was not normal (pictures attached). I called the operations manager and went to the control room to find out if there were any problems with the system, and they stated that they were not aware of anything but would look into it. latter this day they sent me what they had found "On the morning on February 27, a conductivity probe on an automatic decant valve failed on the desulfurized alpha pinene tank. This failure was first made apparent during your morning visit when your VOC meter detected readings above normal in containment 2. Further investigation traced the material present in containment to TK 810. When operators arrived at the tank, it was noted that material was coming from the automatic decant line draining into the TK713 (inside containment 1). This material escaped through the pressure relief vent and drained to containment 2 through the attached pipe. The manual valve on TK 810 was closed to stop the discharge. This material is fragrance grade and contains less than 5ppm of sulfur. I’ve attached the SDS for the material. Trends of the level transmitter in the tank indicate this release is ~147 gallons of material. Material is being recollected from containment to the feed tank." all SDSs are attached below.
Follow-Up Investigation
22‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, but only around the tank farm where in the past it was the entire property. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were also loading and unloading. Temp was 61'F; the wind is5 SSW, RTO - 1734'F, 157.7gpm, 35.1in H2O. multi-rae reading was VOC-0.5ppm, O2- 20.7% and H2S- 0.0. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
It was also noted that the wastewater treatment plant that would take their industrial wastewater was now bypassed and no longer exposed to the air. All industrial wastewater (pH treatment only) is now in a closed system and then trucked out for disposal. The empty plant will be covered in order to prevent the accumulation of rainwater.
Other
21‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/21/2024 at 10:00 pm from Nathan Lembcke:
Really bad smell outside again tonight. Shadowbrook development; 45 degrees F, winds SE@4
Other
21‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/21/2024 at 9:47 pm from Lisa Jackson:
I can home from Church, Rincon GA. approximately 9:15 pm. As soon as I hit the turn into Shadowbrook Subdivision in Springfield, I smelled the odor. It's a recurring order. Smelled like pollution tonight. Sometimes smells like cat urine. It's most nights, unfortunately. ***Redacted due to medical information***
I live at 107 Red Fern Ct, Springfield, GA 31329.
Other
21‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/21/2024 at 12:15 pm from Sharee Mckenzie:
This morning in Cobbleton on Ebenezer, around 7:45am the smell was very strong. I was outside getting my briefcase and other items into my car and ***Redacted due to medical information***. We need this to stop. We can’t live like this. This is not ok! We need your help. We need the investigations to be expedited. We need DRT or whomever to be held accountable. This is really enough. Please advise on what to do. Believe me, I’m looking into moving, but I have to wait for my freshman and junior to graduate first. In the meantime, I need to live without whatever this is that’s being released into the air and imposing on my livelihood and that of others.
Other
19‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/19/2024 at 11:30 am from Sharee Mckenzie:
I left my home at 123 Cobbleton Dr, Rincon, GA 31326 at 8:00am this morning. The smell was very strong. Like sulphur and just the typical funky smell.
Other
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email received from EPA on 2/12/2024 @ 10:18 AM:
2/9/2024 8:02 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-294341-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Betheny Rowland
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 203 Ferncliff Ct
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Once again, the obnoxious odor is in effect from Chase Drive/Millpond Rd to Ebenezer Rd/Ebenezer Middle School in Rincon, GA @ 7:42am on 2/9/2024. Hoping the testing devices in the area are picking up the odor!!
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email received from EPA on 2/12/2024 @ 10:18 AM:
2/8/2024 3:15 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-294289-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Tiffany Stallons
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Early morning terrible smell can’t be outside!!! Can’t even drive on Ebenezer rd. Today and yesterday coming home at 2:30 when the kids are getting on the bus from the schools. Terrible all the way down from the schools to the Loves gas station
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email received from EPA on 2/12/2024 @ 10:18 AM:
2/8/2024 10:32 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-294333-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Kayla Hadel
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: I don’t know
Alleged Violator's Address: Ebenezer Rd
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Seriously strong smell (smells like feces) coming from Ebenezer Rd. It’s been like this for months, but when I woke up this morning, I could smell it in my house (I live off of Mill Pond Rd.) I know it’s coming from one of these companies off of Ebenezer Rd.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email received from EPA on 2/12/2024 @ 10:18 AM:
2/8/2024 11:37 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-294269-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Denise Gonsales
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: Unknown
Alleged Violator's Address: 20 Frederick Street
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: I’ve lived in this house for 28 years and I’ve never experienced a smell like what I’ve noticed over the past 6-months. I don’t know where it’s coming from but it’s disturbing and no doubt it’s toxic.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email received from EPA on 2/12/2024 @ 10:12 AM:
2/8/2024 9:17 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-294259-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Michael J Roy
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: Drt america
Alleged Violator's Address: 216 Mill Stone Court
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: At 1215am I woke up to a sulfur smell inside the house. I checked and it was stronger outside the house. Very little breeze and temperature about 35F. By 730am, I could not smell anything outside.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
12‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, also at the Springfield WWTP down to Cosentino. It was also raining during sampling. However, all samples taken were undercover. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were also loading and unloading. Temp was 61'F; the wind is 4 NNW, RTO - 1734'F, 157.7gpm, 35.1in H2O. multi-rae reading was VOC-0.1ppm, O2- 20.9% and H2S- 0.0. Also, we drove through each nearby neighborhood to evaluate if there were any odors noted while driving around.
Other
11‑Feb‑2024 by David Lyle
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/11/2024 at 8:49 pm;
"Sse 6 wind 63 degrees 849 pm sunday. Smells horrible at my front door. 201 redwood court springfield ga. Please stop this from happening."
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email From EPA
2/1/2024 9:06 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293726-3714-CV
Name: Tiffany
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Strong odor so bad in middle of the night it was in my house and woke my family up. Could not escape it. Still at 4 am this morning ***Redacted due to medical information*** in house or outside. So strong. Please help. They seem to be doing something in the middle of the night and early morning.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 10:27 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293731-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Jennifer Hitchens
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Awful smell at 6:30 am. Very strong.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 10:13 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293729-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Marlys Fruhling
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Terrible pungent smell when walking out of our home around 6:30 this morning and continuing throughout the morning.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
2/1/2024 11:03 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293741-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Brenda Iwanski
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: Effingham County Industrial Development Area, 400 Governor Treutlen Dr, Rincon, GA 31326
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Intense odor permeated our neighborhood & home 2/1/2024 at approximately 12:00 am-2:00 am.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
7‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 11:21 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293744-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
TO:
Name: Dawn Dicken
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: At 8:59 am there was a significant chemical odor consistent with the odor that has been plaguing this area for a long time. The odor seems to have increased in intensity during the time frame of 12:00 am - 10:00 am.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
6‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, also from the raised water tower all the way up to the middle school. The odor was also noted to be different in nature. The facility was operating during the visit, and transport takers were also loading and unloading. Temp was 51'F; the wind is 7 NNE, RTO - 1725'F, 161.8gpm, 38in H2O. We did not have the multirea to take readings, ERT was using it.
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 8:05 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293715-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM: kayleen.tombarello@live.com
TO:
Name: Kayleen Tombarello
Phone: 6038189951
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 309 Branchwood ct
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: ***Redacted due to medical information*** odor in the air.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 8:05 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293714-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: jessica
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Awful toxic smelling stench filling the air at Ebenezer Middle School. Concerned for my child's health. ***Redacted due to medical information***!!!!! 8:00am 32 degrees
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 7:56 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293712-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Cindy Spencer
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Chemical smell permeating the air. Reported it was apparent overnight 1/31/24 as well as this morning at 7:00 am . ***Redacted due to medical information***.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 7:38 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293711-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Jimmy Bell
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: From Jan.29-Feb.1. 2024 I have smelled a rotten odor coming DRT in the morning from 0200 to 0315 and woken up ***Redacted due to medical information***
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 8:10 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293716-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Betheny Rowland
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: @7:37a.m.-2/1/2024-Intersecting of Millpond Rd. and Lexington Ave Ext. Rincon, GA, the overwhelming pollutants started at this location and continued to Ebenezer Middle School on Ebenezer Rd where they have a testing truck there this morning and test devices set up as of 1/31/2024 around the schools. Today should show, that air quality is an issue because of DRT.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
2/1/2024 8:51 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293722-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Misty Elliott
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: The smell coming from DRT today very strong. Immediately ***Redacted due to medical information*** when I walked outside my home.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
called office
Sarah Powell
Location: Ebenezer Rd
Time: 8:20AM 02/05/2024
Weather: 48 deg F, wind 10 mph NNE -> SW
Odor: Stronger today than usual. ***Redacted due to medical information***
Follow-Up Investigation
5‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
From EPA email
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293708-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Alleged Violator's Name: Holly Roy
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: The noxious odors are terrible this morning. Upon opening the door at 6:15 AM I was hit with a smell worse than an unfiltered paper plant. Ammonia plus Lysol-like cleaning smell. ***Redacted due to medical information***
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
3‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/3/2024:
Absolutely horrible on 21 and heading down log landing. 919 pm 48 degrees.
Follow-Up Investigation
2‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Jennifer Cook
hwy 80 Pine Street to Old River Road
really heavy air issue
Follow-Up Investigation
1‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Email from EPA
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293734-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Name: Theresa Richter
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Strong sulfur rotten smell. ***Redacted due to medical information*** Rincon, GeorgiaThis has been on going for months.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
1‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 2/1/24:
42 degrees wind s 5. Smell is at my home had to close windows. 201 redwood court springfield in shadowbrook off log landing.
Other
1‑Feb‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received by CDO on 2/1/2024:
Jennifer Cook
865 Hwy 80, Eden
Odor has been occurring for months. Today it is a smokey, sickly sweet, bad meat smell. ***Redacted due to medical information***. Hazy look outside.
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 4:26 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293541-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Elizabeth Stringer
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: Ebenezer rd
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Horrible stench. ***Redacted due to medical information***
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 8:38 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293554-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Jon Delaney
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT America
Alleged Violator's Address: 169 Cubbedge Dr
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Rancid smell constantly
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 8:21 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293551-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Michael Yates
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: I live in Rincon GA in a neighborhood called Ramsey Landing, directly across the street from Ebenezer Elementary and Ebenezer Middle School off Ebenezer Road. Today around 545am I woke up to a horrible smell coming from DRT America which is less than a 2min drive from my home. The smell smells worse than poop and it reeks for hours! I am a ***Redacted due to medical information*** and I have no idea how this facility is so close to our residential area. Even at 745am when I waked outside today on 30Jan2024 the smell was so bad, I had to go back in the house and get a face mask just to function and even my 4yr old said it smelled really really bad. EPA Please Help US! we are in desperate need surely something has to be done to get this place to move or shut down its killing us. Please Please Help.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 8:56 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293556-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Scott rung
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: Drt
Alleged Violator's Address: 115 treutlen ct
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Horrible odor emanating from drt this am
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 8:35 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293553-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Nicole
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT Plant
Alleged Violator's Address: 122 Little Jack Way
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: The DRT Plant smell is so strong this morning that the fumes have now come into my house. ***Redacted due to medical information*** The schools are across the street. What am I suppose to do?! The odor is past bearable and no one does anything about it. It’s now become a huge health problem. The smell is coming from the DRT Perfume Plant . Please help.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/31/2024 7:36 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293640-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Starr Wood
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 299 Lillian Street, Rincon, GA 31326
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: It smelled so bad yesterday and today. ***Redacted due to medical information***to the air quality
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 9:54 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293563-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Bethany
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: Ebenezer Rd
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: ***Redacted due to medical information***this is an almost every day occurrence now. ***Redacted due to medical information***.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 9:21 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293561-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Paige Dickey
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT America
Alleged Violator's Address: 106 Gnann Way
Alleged Violator's City: Toxic smell and nasty chemical smell
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: DRY America has horrible smells coming from their plant on Ebenezer Road. I have tried to bear with it and have not complained up until now but this smell has ***Redacted due to medical information***. Please do something.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 9:30 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293562-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Dawn Dicken
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 Governor Truetlen way
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Noxious smell for the last 12 hours ***Redacted due to medical information***
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 9:08 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293559-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Lisa Williams
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRY
Alleged Violator's Address: Ebenezer rd
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31426
Tip or Complaint: The stench from DRT is unbearable today. It’s permeated the walls of our home.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 5:38 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293612-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Jessica Mitchell
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: 5:00PM. AQI : 155. UNHEALTHY AIR QUALITY. LINGERING STENCH AT EBENEZER MIDDLE SCHOOL.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 4:21 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293608-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Beth Helmly
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Horrible smell
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 12:47 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293582-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Melissa Doss
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT America
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 gov treutlen dr
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Foul smell on Ebenezer rd -
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 5:28 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293611-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Vonnecia Holmes
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT America
Alleged Violator's Address: 108 Gnann Way
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: This has been ongoing since last year September 2023. I at first thought it was from trees being removed in my subdivision that is expanding so ignored it. It wasn’t until it continued and got stronger that I knew it was something worse. The smell comes and goes, there are times its mild and other times totally unbearable.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 3:27 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293602-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Francesca Minehart
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT America
Alleged Violator's Address: Ebenezer
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Foul odor
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 10:13 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293567-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Gina Scott
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 198 Ford Rd
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: Last night and earlier this morning our air was FILLED with the worst smell we have had in weeks. The suspected source is DRT, with many filed complaints in the past. It’s unbelievable that your agency is not available to come when this issue is reported to see where the smell is coming from in this area.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/31/2024:
-----Original Message-----
1/30/2024 10:01 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293628-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Jessica Beane
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT rincon ga
Alleged Violator's Address: 177 Cubbedge Dr
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: The smell from DRT can be smelt INSIDE my home this morning. The air quality has gotten terrible here. Something must be done about this.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
31‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/30/2024:
1/30/2024 12:35 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293537-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Sharee McKenzie
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT Springfield waste retention pond off Ebenezer an industrial business on Ebenezer
Alleged Violator's Address: Unknown
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: At my home in Cobbleton, a strong noxious odor of what smells like coffee mixed with tar, oil, and sewage exists in the air. I don’t know exactly what’s causing the smell, but it’s very strong. I noticed it around 12:15am.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Follow-Up Investigation
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site, also from the raised water tower all the way up to the middle school. The odor was also noted to be different in nature, smelling more like canned tuna fish with a mix of sulfur. The facility was in operation at the time of the visit, and transport takers were also loading and unloading. Temp was 54'F; the wind is 2 SSE, RTO - 1737'F, 141.2gpm, 36.7in H2O. Not that we did not have the multirea to take reading. It was being used in a different investigation.
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
01/30/2024
-----Original Message-----
1/28/2024 9:58 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293457-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Jennifer Hitchens
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: The smell is awful at 9:55 pm.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/30/2024:
1/30/2024 7:11 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293542-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Theresa Richter
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: There is a strong smell of sulfur and rotten eggs. It was bad last night and worse today.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/30/2024:
1/30/2024 7:39 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293544-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Marlys Fruhling
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Terrible, pungent smell as I walked out my door in Raindance and walked in Ramsey Landing subdivision.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/30/2024:
1/29/2024 12:07 PM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293495-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Amanda Maletz
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 Governor Treutlen Drive
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: We live in Shadowbrook Subdivision (443 Shadowbrook Circle) off of Log Landing Road. On certain days/nights there is a strong chemical smell in the air around our home. Two of our animals have begun to throw up around the same time we have smelt this smell in the air. We started really noticing in mid October 2023.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint received via USEPA on 1/3/2024:
1/30/2024 12:22 AM
HQ LEAD NUMBER: FY24-293536-3714-CV
SUBJECT: Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
FROM:
TO:
Name: Holly Roy
Phone:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT
Alleged Violator's Address: 141 Cobbleton Drive
Alleged Violator's City: Rincon
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Tip or Complaint: It is 12:20pM. One of my neighbors posted the noxious smell had started. I went outside and it is beyond nasty. Came right back into the house.
Violation Still Occurring? Yes
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Other
30‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Ebenezer Middle and Elementary School, Rincon, GA
Sara Powell
Received via EPDreporting on 1/25/24; " Hi, I'm very upset today to report the smell was at ebenezer middle and elementary school. I dropped my son off but really wanted to keep him home. If I chose to keep him home would it be legally excused or tardy. I called school and they said the epa did not tell them to keep kids inside when the smell was present. So they will go to gym run around and play at recess in the smell. Going into their lungs and bodies. I am very upset without these answers. Please make better decisions for our children."
Other
28‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
119 White Mulberry Lane, Rincon, GA
Nikki Lee Carangelo
Received via email from EPA on 1/29/2023; FY24-293415-3714-CV; Tip or Complaint: "Several if us went out to identify where the smell was coming from. It was a heavy smell of burnt coffee with some tyoe of chemical or burning oil or rubber scent. The smell was coming through the treeline. I have also smelled this same smell a the YMCA pool in Sept/Oct. Time was 11:30 including wind patterns for this evening"
Other
28‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
141 Cobbleton Drive, Rincon, GA
Holly Roy
Received via email from EPA on 1/29/2023; FY24-293420-3714-CV; "The noxious odors began at about 7:30 AM. I was outside earlier and did not smell anything. I opened my window at 7:30 AM so my cat could sit in the window. She jumped down and ran out of the room and I had to close it immediately. "
Other
27‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Log Landing Road/Shadowbrook Circle, Rincon, GA
Sara Powell
Received via EPDreporting on 1/25/24; " Foul odor again entrance to shadowbrook neighborhood off of log landing and shadowbrook circle. Temperature is 73°F wind is 7mph SSE. 11:50 am Saturday, January 27.
Other
26‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Ebenezer Road (near DRT), Rincon, GA
Sharon Moyer
Received via email from EPA on 1/29/2023; FY24-293361-3714-CV ; "Noxious odors all day long. The smell was like rotting coffee grounds and urine. I noticed the smell at 12:00PM. The smell continued all day. I drove down Ebenezer Rd towards DRT America around 5:45 PM and the stench became overwhelming. My car windows were up and it was unbearable in my car."
Other
26‑Jan‑2024 by Steve Wurtz
Received via EPDreporting on 1/26/24:
"Good morning,
I tried calling the number, but I feel an email is better served than a voicemail, but i can leave voicemails if that would better serve as a timestamp.
I didn't even know we had an outlet to report the disgusting smell that we always have lingering. After seeing a news story about DRT and that there was some kind of investigation. We just moved to Springfield a year and a half ago and have been smelling this smell off and on. Today it's so bad you have to cover your face if you go outside.
If there is a better way than the number below to make a complaint about the smell, please advise. I wish I would have known sooner about the EPD.
EPD Coastal District at 912-264-7284
Thank you,
--
Nathan Lembcke"
Other
26‑Jan‑2024 by Steve Wurtz
Received via EPDreporting @ 8:05 pm on 1/25/24; "The smell is now at my home 8 pm 201 redwood court. We moved here in July from pa and I am in a lease, do I have options. "
Ms. Sara Powell also called the office on 1/26/24 and spoke to the CDO. David Lyle called Ms. Powell at 11:50 am and was asked to call back after 2 pm. At 2:30 pm, Ms. Powell called back and information was provided about the possible sources of odor in the Ebenezer Road area. Ms. Powell was advised about air sampling conducted by EPD and USEPA, general information about odors in the environment, and how to report odor complaints to EPD. Ms. Powell is concerned about whether the odors present indicate an unsafe condition. Ms. Powell was advised that EPD is continuing to investigate the odors.
Other
25‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Log Landing Road, Rincon, GA
Anonymous
Received via email from EPA on 1/29/2023; FY24-293273-3714-CV; "Shortly after midnight this morning there was a strong stench. Again today at 2:30 pm. I left the area around 3:30pm and the smell was so strong that even though I had my windows in my car up, the smell permeated the inside of my vehicle. Off of Log Landing road in Springfield, ga. This is an ongoing issue that is increasing in intensity and the number of days per week this is happening for the last several weeks. Rotten egg smell and urine is the best way to describe it."
Other
23‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Hwy 21/Rahn Station Rd intersection, Rincon, GA
Anonymous
Received via email from EPA on 1/29/2023; FY24-293151-3714-CV ; "The smell is so obnoxious today in Springfield ga just a few miles away from the DRT plant. 1:30 pm today, 3:30 pm today driving southbound on hwy 21 at the Rahn station intersection. It was so terrible that we had to roll up our car windows and the smell lasted several miles into rincon ga Tonight after 6:15. The same area as well as down Log Landing road and into the shadowbrook subdivision as well as surrounding areas. It has also been strong like this most days of January 2024. The address states rincon but the plant is actually located in Springfield to my knowledge. Effingham county ga."
Follow-Up Investigation
23‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Christopher Reed
"Hi I wanted to report the continued smell. I know there’s an ongoing investigation into this as well as many reporting on it.
Typically smell it around 4:15-4:30am at Ebenezer Rd and 21, the intersection by Love’s gas station. Traveling Southeast on Ebenezer Rd, smell it just beyond the train tracks all the way through the 21 intersection.
Have smelled it almost every morning when driving through there, moved in August 15th 2023. Weather conditions have been all temps, wind conditions, usually don’t smell it when raining.
If there are any other questions please let me know.
Thank you"
Follow-Up Investigation
22‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Tiffany Stallons
"We live on Ebenezer Rd and would like to file a complaint. We have called the EPA number and have not had success. We have smelled the smell for the last several years. The smell is much worse. It is almost everyday. We go to work at 4:30 AM. And the smell is terrible. I go to take out my dogs in the morning before work and can’t even stand out side. Please help us. Thank you. "
Follow-Up Investigation
22‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
bischwind723
"Today right information of lineage on evenezer road and down the road a bit the smell was god awful. It is 3q degrees out and ne5 winds. Please resolve this issue "
Follow-Up Investigation
22‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. A slight odor was observed on-site at the gate of Springfield wastewater and raised water tower. Took VOC readings with multirae with a reading of 0.1ppm. The facility was not in operation at the time of the visit. Temp was 42'F; the wind is 2 ENE, 0.1ppmVOC, 20.5%O2, RTO - 1725'F, 151.4gpm, 34in H2O
Other
20‑Jan‑2024 by Steve Wurtz
Complaint submitted via email to Sara Lips and forwarded to Coastal District.
Received on 1/21/2023 from Chris Walters cw.local554@gmail.com
"Reporting a smell from DRT that smelled like dog feces for a period of 24 hours on 1/20/2024.
Concerned citizen of Effingham Co.
Thank you,
Chris Walters"
Enforcement conference
19‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
from Jordan Davenport EPA FY24-292648-3714-CV
Tip or Complaint: Happens every weekend. I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired. The sulfate turpentine stink fills the Air, traps my family inside. DRT AMERICA is holding people hostage. Make this stop. Citizens still have zero answers and zero air quality data.
Follow-Up Investigation
16‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Elementry School front entrance. The change was due to the holiday school, where the middle was inaccessible. Only a slight odor was observed on-site. The facility was in operation at the time of the visit. Temp was 57'F; the wind is 5 WSW, 0.2ppmVOC, 20.5%O2, RTO - 1717.5'F, 144.4gpm, 27.6in H2O
Follow-Up Investigation
15‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Bischwind723
"Hi, that smell is at my home right now. 201 redwood court springfield, in shadowbrook development off log landing. The wind is calm and is 53 degrees right now. What the heck are we finding out and doing about this smell."
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Jan‑2024 by Steve Wurtz
Complaint received via coast.epdreporting@dnr.ga.gov on 1/9/2024; It is 12:23 pm it has smelled outside for about 2 to 3 hours, it smells horrible. It is 65 degrees and winds are south 19. It also smelled last night around 7 all the way from loflg landing to loves and down ebenezer road. Caller name not provided.
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint via EPA(CAA - FY24-291854-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Holly Roy "At approximately 7 AM this morning I went to let my dog out and when I opened the door a foul, disgusting odor filled the air. It is now 8:30 and the air is STILL terrible. I tried calling several offices to report the problem and had to leave messages (?). This has been going on for years but has gotten worse over 2023. I can't even go outside unless I check the air quality first anymore." received 1-3-2024
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint via EPA(CAA - FY24-291867-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Jennifer Hitchens -"Awful smell." received 1-3-2024
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Complaint via EPA (CAA - FY24-291868-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Marianne Harvey -"This is an ongoing nuisance smell that has been reported by many people, many times. We’re sick of smelling it. You can’t ignore it any longer….its time to step up and protect your citizens" Received 1-3-2024
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
complaint via EPA (CAA - FY24-291879-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia
Jordan Davenport -"Chemical Vapor release causing foul odor and health concerns to individuals in the area. Ongoing issue." received 1-4-2024
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Jan‑2024 by Steve Wurtz
EPA reporting FY24-292223-3714-CV
Sent to GAEPD via USEPA on 1/9/24; The pungent smell in Rincon, Ga and Springfield, Ga from DRT is horrendous. Is this chemical safe for us that live here to breath in? Odor was noticed at Governor Treutlen Drive.
Follow-Up Investigation
4‑Jan‑2024 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Elementry School front entrance. The change was due to the holiday school, where the middle was inaccessible. Only a slight odor was observed on-site. The facility was in operation at the time of the visit. Temp was 49'F, the wind is 0mphN, 0.2ppmVOC, 20.6%O2, RTO - 1670'F,150.3gpm, 35.1in H2O
Follow-Up Investigation
20‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Elementry School front entrance. The change was due to the holiday school, where the middle was inaccessible. Only a slight odor was observed on-site and at the water tower due to maintenance being done on the facility. The facility was not in operation at the time of the visit, and it was stated that they would be shut down until further notice. The gasket change was done on 14 Dec 23. Temp was 39'F, the wind is 5mphN, 0.1ppmVOC, 20.9%O2, RTO - 1715'F,152gpm, 34in H2O.
Follow-Up Investigation
14‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at DRT at containment #2. Only a slight odor was observed on-site due to maintenance being done on the facility for most of the visit, and no off-site odor was noted. The facility was not in operation at the time of the visit, and it was stated that they would be shut down until 18 Dec 23 after the gasket change of three of the tanks on the farm. The gasket change started at 1056, and the first sample was done before the start at 0956 and closed at 0957. The second sample was done while the gasket of Tank 803 was being done at 1057 open and 1058 close. I was on-site with four members of the Effingham County Fire Department and the EMA Chief. Temp was 43'F, wind is 5mphNNW, 0.1ppmVOC, 19.6%O2, RTO - 1715'F,142.2gpm, 1.2in H2O. No H2S was noted with my monitoring device. VOCs were only noted during high levels of odor for less than 60 seconds but no higher than 0.9ppm and this only occurred 3 times before the maintenance started on the gaskets.
Follow-Up Investigation
11‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken at city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Only a slight odor was observed on-site due to maintenance being done on the facility, and no off-site odor was noted. The facility was not in operation at the time of the visit, and it was stated that they would be shut down until 18 Dec 23 after the gasket change of three of the tanks on the farm. The gasket change is planned for 14 Dec 23. I plan to be present for at least part of the maintenance. Temp was 45'F, wind is 5mphN, 0.1ppmVOC, 20.9%O2, RTO - 1714.2'F,146gpm, 33in H2O. Also, the Bulloch County EMA Director was present to observe the collection process.
Follow-Up Investigation
6‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Air grab samples were taken on 12-5-2023 at three locations: city hall (control), DRT at containment #2, and Ebenezer Middle School front entrance. Only a slight odor was observed on-site due to maintenance being done on the facility, and no off-site odor was noted. The facility was not in operation at the time of the visit, and it was stated that they would be shut down until 18 Dec 23 after the gasket change of three of the tanks on the farm. The gasket change is planned for 14 Dec 23. I plan to be present for at least part of the maintenance. Temp was 57'F, wind is 3mphNNW, 0.1ppmVOC, 20.9%O2, RTO - 1714.2'F,172.4gpm, 33.2in H2O
Initial Investigation
5‑Dec‑2023 by Steve Wurtz
On 12/5/2023, EPD received the following complaint from the US EPA via email (CAA - FY24-287121-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia:
Name: David Arnold
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: On 11/19/2023 I was passing the DRT America site on Ebenezer Road at 0500. I encountered an extremely pungent smell in the air. The chemical vapors being emitted from this location is a near daily occurrence and affects several surrounding housing subdivisions, two schools and dozens of surrounding businesses. Many people in the area experience the same conditions I did.
Violation Still Occurring? No
State DEP/DEQ/DEM Notified? No
Initial Investigation
5‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
On 12/5/2023, EPD received the following complaint from the US EPA via email (CAA - FY24-286840-3714-CV) Regional Tip and/or Complaint - Georgia:
Alleged Violator's Name: DRT AMERICA
Alleged Violator's Address: 400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DR
Alleged Violator's City: RINCON
Alleged Violator's State: Georgia
Alleged Violator's Zip: 31326
Alleged Violator's Latitude / Longitude: 32.341070 / -81.254530
Alleged Violator's FRS ID: 110070517775
Tip or Complaint: Same pungent odor coming from DRT like it was when their spill occurred. This has been ongoing and is really affecting us. You can't even go outside. Please get this place shut down since they can't follow the rules.
Follow-Up Investigation
4‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Received via email from Commissioner Phil Kieffer on 11/29/2023:
In the last few weeks, it has been indicated that the source of the odor hasn’t been confirmed. I wanted to provide this information that will hopefully help identify DRT definitively as the source.
Yesterday evening at approximately 9:30 am, I witness an extremely strong odor. It was the same odor that I’ve been experiencing. I immediately opened my wind app on my phone. Attached is a screenshot. The app is animated, however this is a still screenshot. But you can still see the red wind direction indicators. The “x” is the approximate location of my home. The “o” is the approximate location of the DRT facility.
I should note that I left my home at 9:30 pm to pick my son up from Ebenezer Elementary (returning from a school trip). The odor was not evident at the school.
I wanted to provide you all with this information.
Phil Kieffer
Commissioner, District 5
Effingham County Board of Commissioners
Follow-Up Investigation
4‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
from CTS#106914
Debra Oliver
CALLER REPORTED A TOXIC CHEMICAL IS BEING RELEASED TO THE ATMOSPHERE
BY A NEARBY PLANT.
Incident Report # 1385435 - DRTA
Follow-Up Investigation
4‑Dec‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
from CTS#106913
Holly Roy
CALLER STATES THERE IS A VERY STRONG HAZARDOUS ODOR COMING FROM THE
SUSPECTED RESPONSIBLE PARTY'S FACILITY.
Follow-Up Investigation
29‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Samples were taken on-site, at middle school and city hall.
slight odor on-site at DRT Temp 45'F, wind 3mph NNW, RTO 1715'F, water 39.3in, 154.8gpm
Will shut down tonight and not go back online until 18 Dec 23. It was also noted that the tents are up for maintenance of three tanks in the farm, to help prevent odor discharge.
Other
21‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
The following complaint was received by Heather Lowery (EPD-Coastal District) via telephone from Jennifer Cook on 11/21/2023:
The caller has noticed an odor during the past 5-6 years and more recently on 11/10/2023. The caller believes it was DRT. The weather at the time was foggy, not raining. The caller has noticed odor at 865 Hwy 80, Bloomingdale, GA and 227 Dogwood Way, Guyton, GA. The odor was described as atrocious, ammonia tint, acidic, dead bodies. Plants on the property are part of their business and are dying. The location of this complaint is 15 miles SW of the Ebenezer Road location where most of the other recent complaints have originated.
Other
21‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
The following complaint was received by David Lyle (EPD-Coastal District) via telephone from Carol Cambridge:
The caller noticed an odor near the intersection of Hwy 80 and Old River Road (Eden, GA) and described it as a chemical odor. The caller was not able to identify the source but noted that there was not any smoke in the area. The caller has noticed the odor for several weeks. The caller was referred to the health department at https://coastalhealthdistrict.org/illness-surveillance-related-to-drt-america-chemical-spill/ . Caller was also advised that EPD is investigating odors in the Effingham area but has not determined any specific source of odor. The location of this complaint is 15 miles SW of the Ebenezer Road location where most of the other recent complaints have originated.
Other
21‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below on 11/21/2023 @ 9:46pm:
"Smelling that horrible smell at my home. 201 redwood court springfield ga 31329. Temp today is 65 wind is ssw 5. "
Other
21‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below on 11/20/2023 @ 3:22pm:
"Good Afternoon,
On 11/19/2023 I was passing the DRT America site on Ebenezer Road at 0500. I encountered an extremely pungent smell in the air.
The chemical vapors being emitted from this location is a near daily occurrence and adversely affects several surrounding housing submissions, two schools and dozens of surrounding businesses. Many people in the area experience the same conditions I did.
We are pleading with you to please get involved to safeguard our health, protect our environment and finally put this nonsense to an end.
David Arnold"
Other
20‑Nov‑2023 by Michelle Dennis
Site visit for weekly air canister sampling, City Hall (control), DRT (primary), Effingham Middle School (secondary). Slight odor with wind at DRT. No odor within surrounding neighborhoods or middle school. Running at almost full capacity of plant. RTO temperature 1712.3 degrees Fahrenheit, water column 36.4in. and 157.9gpm.
Other
19‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below on 11/19/2023 @ 4:11pm:
"Sunday Nov 19th at 4:09 it smelled at Clarence Morgan park. 70 degrees."
Clarence Morgan Park is located at 1750 GA-21 S, Springfield, GA 31329.
Other
16‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below from Clint Hodges on 11/16/2023 @ 10:54pm:
"We have received another odor complaint this evening. I sent the on-duty Fire Department Shift Supervisor to investigate. He arrived in the area of Hwy 21/Ebenezer Rd around 8:45 pm, where he noted a noticeable odor, which he began investigating. He progressed onto Ebenezer Rd, and as he progressed along Ebenezer Rd, he did not find any noticeable odor east of the railroad track. The wind direction was noted to be similar to the past two evenings, which was from the E/NE to the W/SW. An emergency response required his response shortly thereafter (unrelated incident), and after it was resolved, he returned to the area around 10:15 pm. He noted a stronger odor in the same area from the 8:45 pm notification, which makes sense as the atmosphere is changing as the night sets in."
Other
16‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below on 11/15/2023 @ 7:54pm from Clint Hodges:
"I went back to the area again today around 1 pm. The odor was present along Hwy 21, south of Strickland's Funeral Home, closer to Ebenezer Rd. It was also moderately noticible within the Industrial Park. I noticed no odor to the east of the RR tracks at the fire station. The winds at the time were simlar to last night in a East to Westerly direction."
Other
15‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Coastal District received the email message below from Yancy Ford on 11/15/2023 @ 11:08am:
"As I arrived at the Effingham College and Career Academy last night at 5:45 p.m. The smell at the school was awful. I began to notice the smell inside my car as I traveled on Hwy 21 at the red light at Ebenezer Road and continued to smell it when I exited the car at ECCA. I left ECCA at 8:00 p.m. and the smell was still really bad. FYI---"
A follow-up email was received on 11/15/2023 @ 11:13am from Clint Hodges:
"I will second this. Additionally, when Yancy messaged me about it at 5:45, I drove out there, noticed the strong odor, and noted the wind pattern, which was blowing from northeast to southwest."
Other
15‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
The following email was sent to EPD-Coastal District at 1:25pm on 11/15/2023:
"At local business off ebenezer rd on industrial rd. Smells terrible Monday and today right now 1:23pm. Temp outside is 64 degrees. Wind nne 8. "
Other
14‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
The following email was sent to EPD-Coastal District at 10:03pm on 11/13/2023:
"I drove through the intersection of Hwy 21 and Ebenezer Rd tonight around 9:10 pm on 11/13/23. I was heading from Springfield area toward Rincon, so a Southern direction and the smell lasted almost all the way to the Effingham YMCA.
At 10:00 pm, it is 52° and a 1 mph wind in a SW direction. There’s also a 90% humidity.
The odor smelled like oil/tar from paving roads mixed with poop/sewage smell.
If you have any questions, my name is Kathy Tatum and my phone number is *********."
Other
13‑Nov‑2023 by Michelle Dennis
Site visit for weekly air canister sampling, City Hall (control), DRT (primary), Effingham Middle School (secondary). Slight odor with wind at DRT. No odor within surrounding neighborhoods or middle school. 1/3 of plant running at the time. RTO temperature 1716 degrees Fahrenheit, water column 1.4in. and 188.8gpm.
Site visit at Lineage -101 Progress Dr. Rincon GA (main contact Shane Connor (EHS/OSHA)- cold storage facility. The facility has 55,690lbs of anhydrous ammonia on site. Refrigeration system that is used is split into two systems at facility, 2/3s uses ammonia and 1/3 uses CO2. There have been 2 minor spills/releases in 2023. The first on April 19, 2023- 9.8lbs of ammonia over a 9 minute period within the engine room. The second was on October 18, 2023- 9.9lbs of ammonia over a 7 minute period within the engine room. Both needed repairs to the equipment and were fixed immediately. Slight odor by administration office outside. No odor within engine room where ammonia is. Both releases are under the reportable quantity.
Site inspection at Linphos Chemicals- 113 Progress Dr. Rincon GA (main contact-Alena Lin alena.lin@linphoschemical.com) - chemical storage facility. No odor at facility. Alena Lin emailed information about facility:
"Hi Michelle,
I am Alena with Linphos Chemical, located on 113 Progress Drive, Rincon. I am writing this email with answers to your questions as requested on Nov 13 when you visited us.
1. What are the chemicals currently on site?
Answer: Phosphates and Fertilizers
2. What is the primary activity of this factory in the past 6 months?
Answer: Distribute products according to the packaging specifications demanded by customers and ship them to customers
3. How do we clean the totes and equipment?
Answer: We package original imported products according to specifications so no wastewater is generated .
For any further questions, please feel free to contact me. Have a great day!
Regards,
--
Alena
Linphos Chemical, Inc
Rincon Office
Add: 113 Progress Dr, Rincon, GA 31326
Tel: +1(912)-754-9569"
Other
13‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
The following email was sent to EPD-Coastal District at 2:40pm on 11/13/2023:
"I spoke to someone random today because the smell was horrendous off ebenezer road and I asked if she knew what it was. She said yes, she said she knows someone who works at lineage, she was told it is the chickens when the garbage isn't picked up properly or on time. I have no idea who I spoke to or if the person she "knows" has this answer correct but it is disgusting if we are all breathing in rotting chickens. I would love to hear if this gets looked into and if it is what we are breathing in. Thank you sara."
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Crystal Rich
Where: the creek between Brookstone subdivision, and Ebenezer Elementary
When: at night between 11-2
I live at 1450 Ebenezer I do deliveries I’ve noticed on my way in at night mainly, the smell in this spot is so bad . I’ve experienced it almost every night during these times. I have not smelled it until the last week at our home. But at the creek between the school and Brookstone subdivision at night there’s something wrong I have never had that intense of a smell. Thank you.
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Sara Powell
Hello. Tonight from my home I smelled the strange smell in our area. 201 redwood court springfield, ga. Usually we smell it near loves gas station and down ebenezer road towards school. However tonight it is in our neighborhood as well. 6:30 pm, wind ESE4, temp is 69 degrees. We are concerned what we are breathing in
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Mark Jervis
Strong odor present at 117 Cubbedge Drive, Rincon, GA 31326
11/08/23 02:30EST
Current temperature: 55F
Wind Speed: 4mph
Gust: 8mph
Direction: WSW
Strong chemical smell the same as the DRT accidental release in September.
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Desiree RDH
Today at 9:00 it smelled again at 63 degrees, not sure wind and all. Raindance development.
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Bill
Another formal complaint about the odor suspected to be coming from DRT
Follow-Up Investigation
9‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Holly Roy
I smelled this ammonia odor when I got up at 6:30 and it is still going strong.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Aaron Parker
I know you asked for specific information regarding the smell on Ebenezer Rd but I just wanted to give you an informal tidbit of information based on the past 8 years of working at EMS and at ECCA (the past 3 years).
The odor is most often it's strongest in the early morning hours (between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m.). I have honestly smelled it nearly every day (at least 3 of the 5 working days) since we returned to school in late July. It seems to be worse (stronger) in the warmer months, obviously. This year has certainly been the worst (as far as frequency). It is also much stronger on humid/foggy mornings. I do remember smelling it OCCASIONALLY midday and in the afternoons but it's quite rare.
As far as what it smells like, it is the same smell every time. Very strong sulfur smell. To be casual, when you pass through the area it's one of those, "Who farted?!" moments in the vehicle, especially if you don't travel that route often.
Last school year, it was only once a week, at most, that I smelled it (usually at least 2 or 3 times per month). In the years before that, it was only monthly. I never noticed the smell until late March or early April of 2018
I know this information is not very detailed but I have noticed plenty of patterns with the smell. This may not be helpful but this is all I really have the ability to offer at this point. The smell is horrible and we all greatly appreciate your assistance.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Nikki Payer
We were outside from 3:15pm until 3:40pm. We came inside because of the smell that was present the whole time.
80 degrees Fahrenheit
33% humidity
Winds: West 8mph and West Southwest
It smells almost like rancid cat urine. We live right across from Ebenezer schools.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Holly Roy
11:26 AM
74 degrees
5mph W
Ongoing odors -
The odor smells like ammonia.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Holly Roy
28 AM -
68 degrees
wind 4 mph W
The toxins smell like strong ammonia
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Brittany Hudak
I am sending this email with the requested details below in reference to the foul smelling odor that has been emitting throughout Effingham County for quite some time now. I reside in the Shadowbrook neighborhood in Springfield, right off of Log Landing Rd. This development is maybe 4 miles from Ebenezer Rd. in Springfield where the DRT facility is apparently located. I only hope that these emails and complaints help to fix the issue.
I am originally from Ohio, not far from where the recent train derailment occurred in East Palestine, leaving chemicals behind to seep into the ground, water, and air. I have seen first hand the effects that chemical spills/accidents can have on the surrounding community and I have also seen instances like this not taken seriously at all. This odor causes my dogs to begin sneezing incessantly upon going outside and breathing it in.
This odor prevents us from opening any windows during this time of year and enjoying the fresh air. At times, even keeping our windows closed does not prevent the odor from gaining entry into our home. I have also included screenshots of the wind and air quality from this morning, Tuesday November 7th, 2023. While "moderate" air quality may not seem terrible, it is generally in the green in this area, except for when the foul odor begins to take over.
Date of the incident: 11/6/2023 - 11/7/2023
Time & Duration: Began at approximately 6:00 P.M on 11/6/2023 and lasted until approximately 7:00 A.M on 11/7/2023.
Temperature: Varied between 62-70 degrees
Windspeed: 3 MPH
Wind Direction: West
Odor Description: The smell resembles dirty gym shoes that have been thrown next to an animal that has been dead for several days. I believe it is somewhat difficult to accurately describe. However, it is one of those things that you know when you smell it.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Cheryl West
Good morning. I am sending this email to report concerns of a chemical odor smell that is affecting the community in Rincon, Ga. There also schools in the area that have students reporting the odor inside of their classrooms. Ebenezer Elementary and Ebenezer Middle School. There also other schools in the community that should have their air quality tested to include Rincon Elementary School
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Desiree RDH
I smelled the odor again in Raindance development on Sunday, November 5th. Down Williams Drive. I don’t know the wind and duration, as it caused us to go inside. I don’t recall the temp that day, but it was in the evening around 4:00 or 5:00.
Drinking waster concern addressed.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Patsy Vashey
health concerns referred to DPH
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Joshua Mros
- Brookstone Subdivision - Odor Description: Toxic smell in the air.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Bill
The following information is in regards to the persistent odor plaguing the area surrounding DRTs facility. This is a formal complaint.
Follow-Up Investigation
8‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Katherine Malinak
Odor description: rotting animal carcasses, like something has died nearby—it’s inescapable —— slightly sulfurous, like some kind of massive gas leak
Follow-Up Investigation
2‑Nov‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Site visit for weekly air canister sampling, City Hall (control), DRT (primary), Effingham Middle School (secondary). RTO readings were - 1712'F, 189gpm, 1"water column, not in operation but doing loading and unloading of raw products.
Follow-Up Investigation
31‑Oct‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Requested shift reports and leak checks received by email.
Other
25‑Oct‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
i spoke with the Effingham County School superintendent during my visit on 10-24-2023, and I asked if he had anyone contact him about any odor concerns at the school's nearby DRT. He stated that he was not aware of anyone from this Staff, teachers, or parents from those schools contacting his office.
Follow-Up Investigation
25‑Oct‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
Another site visit was conducted on 10-24-2023 for additional Air Samples on site and at Rincon City Hall ( same locations as 9-26-2023 samples). On this visit, there was an odor that started at the office around the area of the raised water tower at the entrance of the industrial area of the county. However, during an additional exploration of the sounding area, including, all nearby neighborhoods, the elementary and middle schools, the GP plant, and the general sounding area there was no odor at these locations noted.
while talking with Mr. Myers, we discussed the odor on site he stated that they were not operating at that time but because of the odor, his staff was conducting an inspection for leaks, in the scavage system which was connected to the tanks on the farm to include the untreated waste water tank. (the MBR is not in operation and no GAP permit is in effect, all wastewater is trucked out of state)
Also, Mr. Myers stated that the gaskets on the tank had been recalled and needed to be exchanged in the near future. I advised that he contact the Air branch to gain advice to mitigate as much vapor/odor as possible during this maintenance period. He stated he would consult the gasket supplier and send an email to his compliance engineer at the Air Branch as well. In addition, he stated that he would notify the district and the Branch when he anticipated the replacement of the gaskets. The plant continues to be only in periodic operations.
will continue to do air samples until further notice.
Initial Investigation
12‑Oct‑2023 by Stephen Wurtz
A site visit was done on 10-12-2023, and a drive through the Cobbleton neighborhood and sounding area at about 9:00 AM where I met with the operations manager, was conducted. There was no noticeable odor on that day other than a very slight odor near the tank farm, which disappeared at around 50 feet from the tanks. This email was received later that day from the plant manager with attachemts, "Mr. Wurtz
Apologies for missing you today. I hope you were able to get your questions answered. I've been working on gathering the information you requested. Please see the attachments of the information you requested.
Standard practice for repair on our component monitoring program is to attempt to tighten or secure any leak point with any detectable limit above 100 ppm. Any release in excess of 1000 ppm will result in process shutdown until correction. If an odor source is found to be non-process related, such as a containment pad, the area is pressure washed if at grade or oil reclamation started for any below grade areas.
Spill response for TK 804 was as follows:
On-shift team reported a failure of the manway gasket on TK 804 at approximately 05:00 on the morning of September 24. Pretreated Sulfate Turpentine (PST) stored inside the tank was releasing from the manway into secondary containment in tank farm area. All processes were stopped and employees began response in alignment within their 24-Hr HAZWOPER training. The team attempted to stop the spill be tightening the manway. This was unsuccessful. The team then aligned the outlet of the tank with hoses to a fabricated manifold to direct the material inside TK 804 into TK 811. This allowed the material inside of the tank to be pumped directly into another storage location using 2 separate pumps to expedite the process. TK 811 normally stores desulfurized alpha pinene. The oil skimmer inside of the tank farm containment was activated to recapture material released into secondary containment and return it to TK 706 for decanting and reprocessing of material. Local community and EPD resources were contacted to inform them of the release and the potential for odors created by the spill. Material transfer from TK 804 was completed at approximately 13:30 on September 24. Reclamation of material from secondary containment was left active until October 2 to remove any contamination of containment water. All product was reclaimed with no releases outside of secondary containment. Investigation of the failure revealed a rolled gasket at the 2:00-3:00 position preventing the sealing of the tank. The RCA is still ongoing.
Keith tells me you plan to return next week for more air monitoring. I will be on PTO on Monday. If you would like to meet with me directly I will be back onsite on Tuesday.
Please let me know if you have any further questions or information needs that I can assist you with."
JOHN MYERS
PLANT MANAGER, DRT RINCON
OFFICE 912.602.6880
MOBILE 912.944.7134
DRT AMERICA LLC & PINOVA INC. – SUBSIDIARY OF FIRMENICH
400 GOVERNOR TREUTLEN DRIVE | RINCON | GA| 31326
This office also conducted a brief visit on Sep 26, 2023, to take air samples on-site with control at Rincon City Hall.
Attachments
(Attachments may not be available for complaints resolved before April 2018. Please note that not every complaint has attachments.)