Reported by Jeff Zimmerman, Neenach

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Snover was dispatched to investigate a large truck dumping debris near 289th Street West and Mimi Lane in Neenach on March 28. A noxious odor was reported.

The deputy found a stench coming from trash laden mulch being delivered to Neenach from Los Angeles landfills by numerous trips from J. J. Gandara Transport.

There has been a heated debate in Neenach with dumping on large ranch size parcels creating problems of dust and blowing trash for their neighbors. The material is now being spread on smaller 2.5 acre residential parcels near single family homes. Strong northwesterly winds blow the dust and spread the foul odor, neighbors said. Neighbors are also concerned about water run- off contaminating wells.

Deputy Snover contacted the trucking firm to inquire about permits. He asked them to mitigate the odor by covering the pile with plastic or promptly spreading it to stop decomposition.

This material has not been screened or heat-treated at a compost facility to minimize transmission of insects and pests. Mulch piles build up heat and may spontaneously ignite. As the waste decomposes, blowing dust, allergens and odors can trigger asthma attacks in those who are sensitive.

Nuisance odors can be reported to the Antelope Valley Air Control District. Other code violations can be forwarded to the Fifth District Supervisor’s office, for investigation by the Nuisance Abatement Team.

This is part of the April 1, 2016 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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