Odor remediation and siting consideration for Pennsylvania swine farms

Two hundred and three neighbors of eight Pennsylvania hog farms evaluated the effectiveness of biofiltration, biocovers, and dust filtration. Neighbors rated odor intensity on a zero to five scale each day for a six-week period. When odor scores for each technology were pooled, there were no significant differences between before and after scores for any of the three technologies. However, one biofilter-equipped farm showed a significant reduction in odor score after technology application.; Biofilter cost was {dollar}1172 per 0.4572 m diameter pit fan if the cost of the fan was included; {dollar}422 per 0.4572 m diameter pit fan if fans did not need replaced. Biocover cost was {dollar}1.08 per m2 of storage surface area. Dust filter cost was {dollar}10.46 per 0.9144 m diameter fan. Biofilters on pit fans required rodent and weed control. Installation of large biofilters on end wall fans was unsuccessful, primarily because increased back pressure reduced fan performance to an unacceptable level. Floating straw biocovers remained intact and functional on smaller, circular, concrete manure storage structures. The biocover on the larger storage quickly ruptured and became saturated. Increased precipitation and manure loading from above the liquid surface reduced biocover life. Agitation, pumping, and land application were not affected by the straw. Dust filters were easily installed and visibly settled dust from the exhaust stream.; Survey responses and health data from 221 swine farm neighbors were compared to 107 demographically similar non-neighbors. Neighbors reported more economic and odor/health concerns about large-scale livestock operations, and similar overall health scores, but more frequent bouts of nausea, fatigue, and throat irritation. Over one third of neighbors frequently modified outdoor plans because of swine facility odors. Over 50% of neighbors occasionally complained to neighbors or friends about odors. One in five neighbors frequently wished they didn't live in their current location because of the swine facility. Distance and direction from the facility, acquaintance with the producer, farm attractiveness, and self-reported health score were significant predictors of odor score (R2 = .33). A combination of strategies including proper facility siting, odor reduction, and community relations can reduce neighbor odor, health, and life quality impacts.