Jacksonville Urban Odor Study
Project Description
The Environmental Quality Division (EQD) had been investigating “chemical-like” odors in some areas after multiple resident complaints over an extended period of time. EQD uses traditional methods for odor assessment which consist of sending an inspector to assess the odor once a complaint comes in and determine if they perceive an odor or not. Although having been successfully used for years, the method has proven to be inefficient at times due to the rapid change in weather conditions that might cause an odor disturbance at the time of the complaint but when acted upon, the odor has shifted paths. Additionally, without having 24/7 continuous monitoring, there is currently no method in handling complaints efficiently and accurately outside of normal work hours.
Project Goals
A 12-month study was conducted to inform the methods the city takes to handle odor complaints and accurately determine odor sources. The information gathered provides valued feedback to both EQD and the JEPB.
How You Can Help
The installed equipment worked independently and helped our staff. Residents were encouraged to let staff know of if they experienced unpleasant odors. Everyone is still encouraged to continue to call 630-CITY (2489) to register a complaint. You can also submit a complaint electronically at www.myjax.custhelp.com. Information received regarding complaints will be investigated using our normal processes. We did, however, also use the information from the study to validate the reports and information received from the equipment installed for the study.
Project Update
- Legislation approving appropriation August 2021
- Contract Execution November 2021
- Project Kickoff with COJ – Envirosuite December 2021
- Equipment Delivery to COJ January 2022
- Installation February 2022
- Software Validation / Training March 2022
- Study Start April 2022
- Quarterly Reports
- Periodic Validation
- Relocation of Monitors (if necessary)
- Study Concluded April 2023
- COJ revision of processes
Sensor Locations
Media
Reports
Reports from the study are listed below. For copies, email staff.
May 2022
Overall Monthly Report - May 2022
Wind Rose - May 2022
Pollution Rose - Ammonia - May 2022
Pollution Rose - VOC's - May 2022 (volatile organic compounds)
Pollution Rose - Hydrogen Sulfide - May 2022
June 2022
Overall Monthly Report - June 2022
Wind Rose - June 2022
Pollution Rose - Ammonia - June 2022
Pollution Rose - VOC's - June 2022
Pollution Rose - Hydrogen Sulfide - June 2022
July 2022
Overall Monthly Report - July 2022
Wind Rose - July 2022
Pollution Rose - Ammonia - May 2022
Pollution Rose - VOC's - July 2022 (volatile organic compounds)
Pollution Rose - Hydrogen Sulfide - July 2022
August 2022
Overall Monthly Report - August 2022 (new format)
September 2022
Overall Monthly Report - September 2022
October 2022
Overall Monthly Report - October 2022
November 2022
Overall Monthly Report - November 2022
January 2023
Overall Monthly Report - January 2023
February 2023
Overall Monthly Report - February 2023
March 2023
Overall Monthly Report - March 2023
Urban Odor Study Final Report
Staff Presentation to JEPB on Final Report - August 2023
Envirosuite Urban Odor Study Final Report