A local group of concerned citizens are meeting to learn more about the usage of biosolid fertilizers within Van Buren, Warren and surrounding counties. Biosolid fertilizer is a by-product of sewage treatment facilities and has been used locally, at no cost to farmers, for several years.

The smell and concerns for public safety have brought a group of locals together on Facebook. The online group was started on March 1 and has quickly grown to over 100 members. The Facebook group, “Stop the Stink,” was started after several local citizens looked further into what they describe as the “horrendous stench” in their neighborhood. Further questions developed when residents learned of the potential biological hazards surrounding the use of biosolids. 

As information was compiled, members realized quickly that there was a need to gather and share what they’ve learned. Additionally, state, local and national officials and experts in the field have agreed to attend and address questions. To that end, a meeting has been scheduled. The meeting will be on April 28th, at 5 p.m., in the UT Extension Services building at: 288 Spring Street in Spencer. 

The meeting has been coordinated by Spencer resident Leo Sochocki who will moderate the event. Guest speakers currently include.

• Robert Becker, Regional Director of External Affairs, TDEC

• Bob O’Dette, Environmental Protection Specialist 5, TDEC

• Anastasia Sharp, Environmental Protection Specialist II, TDEC

• Karen Styers, Biosolids Distribution Coordinator for the City of Chattanooga

• Jacob McCrary, Operations Director, Moccasin Bend Treatment Facility

• Chris Binkley, UT Extension Office, Director for Van Buren County

• Scott Banbury, Tennessee Representative for The Sierra Club

• David Sullivan, Mayor of Van Buren County

The meeting is scheduled to be a two-hour event. Citizens that have questions about the use of biosolid fertilizer are asked to submit them to Mr. Sochocki at email:  lazrslong@gmail.com