RES to Fund Independent Tests

The Joplin Globe, Wednesday, March 28, 2007 reports that the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) will allow Renewable Environmental Solutions LLC (RES) to pay for an independent study of odors problems in Carthage. According to MDNR, there have been 121 odor complaints in Carthage since January 1, 2007, with 114 of those specifically about RES. Under the agreement, MDNR officials will select an independent third-party company that conducts tests, and RES will pay the bill. MDNR said however, that first there must be an agreement signed to cover the arrangement. MDNR will be looking for a company that has been approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency EPA).

In a related article, The Joplin Globe interviewed business owners around the historic Carthage square, regarding the effect of RES's smell has on their business. The smell has been likened to burning flesh or a dead cat. One restaurant owner said that sales are off 34% on days his business is downwind from the RES smell.