Odor Reduction - Logging Operation Lagoon

Biological Treatment Summary

The Situation

A logging operation in northwest Oregon cured cut logs by placing them on a wash pad and sprayed then with water. This process flushed wood tar and large amounts of pulp from the pad into a 300,000-gallon lagoon. Water from this lagoon was recycled back into the spraying operation.

During the twenty years of operation, the lagoon's only maintenance was periodic dredging. However, none of the current employees recalled the last time the lagoon was actually dredged. Consequently, three to four feet of solids had accumulated in the lagoon. Accompanying this was a very strong and offensive odor caused by the rotting bottom solids. Citizens of a town almost two miles away often complained about the odor and began threatening legal action.

The Solution

United-Tech, Inc. recommended the lagoon be treated with BZT® Waste Digester to eliminate the odor and reduce bottom solids. Seed and maintenance dosages were provided to the client and treatment was initiated immediately.

The Results

Within one week of seed application, the offensive, acrid, odor had disappeared: and in two weeks, the water began clearing. After four weeks, the water was so clear the bottom, five feet below, could now be seen. After ninety days, bottom solids were reduced by 50%. The client and the surrounding community were very satisfied with the results.