DNR says RES odor resulted from malfunction

The DNR determined the emissions documented Dec. 12 were caused by a malfunction after RES submitted its response to the notice. RES officials said the odor resulted from “unanticipated cracks that developed over a short period of time in sections of a prefabricated, horizontal, elevated ductwork that carries oxidized vapors,” according to a DNR news release.

The cracks have been repaired, and reinforcement brackets have been added to the ductwork.

If DNR had issued a violation, RES would have been ordered to pay a $25,000 suspended penalty, per a settlement reached with the state in June. The settlement – in an effort to control the plant’s odors – requires the company to pay $25,000 per violation, up to $75,000, through mid-2008.

The RES plant converts agricultural and animal wastes into oil, gas, minerals and fertilizer.

The recent incident occurred a month after DNR issued a Notice of Excess Emissions, later upgraded to a Notice of Violation on Dec. 7. When RES pays $25,000 for that violation, the fine will go to the Jasper County School Fund.

The DNR encourages citizens in the Carthage area to call (417) 891-4300 if they notice odors.