Dear Editor:
I am a federal research scientist with a PhD in Meteorology. I reviewed the Odour Modelling Report for the Summerland landfill proposal and have concerns with the potential for error in the findings. The consultant conducted odour mapping for eight sites. When considering Summerland, terrain and winds were too complex for the model’s meteorological preprocessor. An alternate approach was followed using weather data from an Environment Canada station seven kilometres away at the Summerland Research Station – a “fake observational station” as they called it – for the landfill site.
One could argue that weather conditions at the two locations differ significantly.
Modelling winds is a tricky business. The consultants realized this and did the best they could. Although the approach used was a reasonable alternative given the circumstances, the report does not acknowledge the uncertainty introduced into the study and potential for error in the results. This is my main concern.
Are decision makers at RDOS aware of this uncertainty and are they qualified to make an informed decision on a complicated issue? What about the impacts of this decision, especially if the substitute weather data underestimates odour dispersion. Will unpleasant odours flow down Prairie Valley Road to wineries, orchards, the town site and to recreational attractions like the KVR and Trans-Canada Trails? Before the RDOS makes a decision, I suggest they ask qualified experts to explain these findings in plain language.
Kerry Anderson, Ph.D
Summerland