Gov't Worries Carcass Disposal May Contaminate Ground, Water

Fenstermacher said some people are objecting to the offensive smells coming from the Dead Animal Removal (DAR) composting area located in the vicinity of Cambridge Road. A spokesperson from DAR said they use a composting process which eats up the animal in a short time. He said about a year-and-a-half ago the government became concerned that the process used by many places to dispose of dead farm animals might permit the spread of mad cow disease, so places like Valley Protein could no longer take dead farm animals, and that this was why they started their service to farmers.
DAR is working on the issue by putting in a new solar digester which will reduce the odor. DAR is a service to the public approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and licensed by the Department of Environmental Protection.

A resident living near the composting operation said that it is not a pleasant smell, but is bearable, and added that it occurs one day a week or a few days during the summer.

Fenstermacher said that the Township talked to the Amish neighbors, who like the service because it is free. Twenty to 30 animals are composted weekly. There is no limit on the permit.



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