Legal PR: The Simon Law Firm’s Environmental Attorneys Alert Suffolk Residents to State Odor Hotline

NEWS RELEASE

Feb. 9, 2010

The Simon Law Firm’s Environmental Attorneys Alert Suffolk Residents to State Odor Hotline

State of Virginia opens investigation to determine whether SPSA landfill is source of smells

ST. LOUIS–Responding to complaints of pungent odors from Suffolk residents ranging from “a gas smell” to “burnt motor oil” and even “wet dog,” the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has set up 24-hour hotline for residents to report the stench, television station WVEC (Channel 13) reported last week.

According to the report, state investigators are trying to determine whether the Southeastern Public Service Authority landfill on Route 58 is the source of the smells. Recent heavy rains may have intensified landfill odors, a section of the landfill that is not equipped with a gas extraction system may be to blame or a nearby chemical plant could be the cause of the problem. (Residents are encouraged to call the hotline, 800-468-8892, to report offending odors.)

One thing is clear, says an article from The Virginian-Pilot:  Residents are tired of the smell.

At a recent Suffolk City Council meeting, the executive director of the SPSA said that the landfill isn’t likely to blame.

According to environmental attorney Todd Hageman, landfills may release noxious gasses such as hydrogen sulfide, mercaptan and other sulfurs along with the methane. When a landfill does not have a proper storm water management plan, the moisture enters the cell and fuels the gas production.

Hageman says, “Hydrogen sulfide smells like rotten eggs. The smell can be so pungent that it forces residents to remain inside with their windows closed or even awakens them in the middle of the night.”

Hydrogen sulfide exposure may also trigger such physical symptoms as burning eyes, sore throat, nosebleeds and respiratory problems.

The Simon Law Firm, based in St. Louis, represents people who have lost the use and enjoyment of their property or been hurt as a result of environmental and landfill waste and odors. The firm has represented more than 700 individual clients in claims arising from the negligent operation of landfills.

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