Sewage raises stink in Stratford

The sewage lagoon on the waterfront in Stratford, P.E.I., is once again raising complaints over what some describe as a stomach-turning odour.

'The organics that are at the bottom make their way to the top.' — Coun. Patrick Ross

Michael Moore of Charlottetown said he was assailed by the fumes Monday while walking across the Hillsborough Bridge to Stratford.

"I started smelling it going across the bridge from the start," Moore told CBC News.

"A very disgusting strong smell, and it will make your stomach turn."

The stench is a problem for businesses that operate in the town as well. At Bernadette's Flowers they like to put the blooms out front and leave the door open, but that's not always desirable.

"We find that sometimes it's really strong," said Ruth Roper, who works at the shop.

"Sometimes it gets really bad and we actually have to close our door."

Town councillor Patrick Ross, who is responsible for the sewage lagoon, said there is not much that can be done about the smell, which bubbles out in early summer every year. It's caused by frozen waste thawing after the winter.

"When you start to get increased temperatures the organics that are at the bottom make their way to the top. When they are at the surface, that's when your odours start coming," said Ross.

There is no quick solution, he said, and in time the stench will dissipate. The town adds neutralizing chemicals to the lagoon and he expects the smell could be gone in about a week.

There are plans to remove sludge from part of the lagoon next year, which should also help reduce the odour.