Odorless Wastewater Treatment: Residents in Heber Valley Demand Action on Toxic Gases

Residents living near the Heber Valley Special Service District have long expressed dissatisfaction with the unpleasant smell emanating from the wastewater treatment ponds. They have claimed that it has negatively impacted their health and overall quality of life. In response to these concerns, state toxicologist Alejandra Maldonado conducted a listening session to gather insights from residents regarding the issue. Her team is currently conducting a risk assessment for hydrogen sulfide, a toxin that can cause symptoms such as headaches and fatigue and is emitted from sources like human waste.

During a recent update in Midway, Maldonado announced that hydrogen sulfide monitors have been deployed to collect data throughout July and August. She expressed her desire to add a third monitor in the Fox Den neighborhood and encouraged residents willing to host a monitor to fill out a form on the project website. Data collection will continue throughout the summer and into next year, weather permitting.

At a public meeting earlier this year, Maldonado clarified that her team’s role is to provide expertise on environmental hazards, with decisions on acting on recommendations falling to the HVSSD and the Wasatch County Health Department. In response to concerns about potential impacts on water quality, the Utah Division of Water Quality has inspected the HVSSD and found that the treatment is in compliance and groundwater in the area is “pristine.” The division also acknowledged that odors in wastewater treatment are common.

Residents are encouraged to continue asking questions as data collection progresses, and more information on the HVSSD risk assessment can be found on the project website.