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Nauseating Fish Stench Forces Massachusetts Town to Sue
5 Sep
Summary
- Residents describe overwhelming 'dead fish' odor from a composting operation.
- A lawsuit filed targets a 20-acre Pepperell property with fish refuse.
- A temporary injunction requires halting operations and waste removal by Sept. 28.
A Massachusetts town has resorted to legal action over an intense "dead fish" odor plaguing residents. The smell originates from a composting operation on a 20-acre property in Pepperell, situated near the New Hampshire border. This operation reportedly involves fish refuse like skeletons, crabs, and shells, creating a "nauseating" and "overwhelming" stench according to local inhabitants.
Town officials initiated a lawsuit in Middlesex County Superior Court on July 16, accusing the property owner of violating zoning and air pollution regulations. Following multiple cease-and-desist letters, daily fines of $300 were imposed. However, both parties have now agreed to a temporary injunction.
This injunction requires the owner to halt all composting activities and remove all waste materials by September 28. Fines are suspended until this deadline. Photos indicate that some compost piles have already been cleared from the property.
