Expertise Resolves Air Quality Concerns
West Central Cooperative, Jefferson, IA

Woodard & Curran’s expert analysis and testimony on behalf of West Central Cooperative, a cattle feed nutritional supplement manufacturer in Jefferson, Iowa, resolved issues that were impacting both production and the manufacturer’s standing in the community.

Upon startup of its new production facility, particulate emissions and acid fallout in the vicinity of the stack and surrounding community took place. As a result, a number of area residents and businesses filed claims with respect to health affects and property damages.

The nutritional supplement was produced by a process based on reacting HCl acid with food ingredients and mineral additives. When our experts began to analyze the manufacturing process, we identified design, technology selection, and performance issues associated with the emission control devices. Two key design issues identified were the inability of the wet scrubber technology to attain the necessary control efficiencies and inadequate stack diameter.

Our expert’s report and testimony detailed these issues and outlined the Owner’s, Engineer’s, and Equipment Vendor's responsibilities. Our expert testimony provided a suitable basis for all of the affected parties to negotiate and settle the "case."