Winchester, Kentucky, November 25, 2025
Residents of Winchester, Kentucky, have raised concerns over an unusual odor affecting the Hill Street area, traced to a nearby fertilizer plant. After complaints, local officials conducted inspections and identified a new organic product as the source. The fertilizer company has since ceased its use, promising improvements. City departments are actively monitoring the situation to ensure community safety as previous odor complaints from the same plant have occurred in the past.
Winchester, Kentucky Residents Report Unusual Odor; Fertilizer Plant Identified as Source
WINCHESTER, KY — Residents of Winchester, Kentucky, have reported an unusual odor permeating the community, particularly in the Hill Street area. City officials have identified a nearby fertilizer plant as the source of the smell.
Investigation and Findings
City departments received multiple complaints about the odor. In response, the Winchester Fire Marshal conducted an inspection of the fertilizer plant and determined that a new organic product, similar to tree sap, was responsible for the smell. The product was not burned during the process. The company has discontinued its use, and conditions are expected to improve.
Safety Measures and Community Response
Prior to the Fire Marshal’s inspection, the Winchester Fire Department conducted a walk-through of the area using gas monitoring equipment, which detected no leaks. Columbia Gas was also contacted and performed pressure testing at its transfer station, including all connected valves. All readings were within normal operating ranges. As an additional precaution, Winchester Police officers responded to the area with cadaver dogs as part of the investigation. No findings were detected.
Background Context
Odor complaints in Winchester are not unprecedented. In 2017, residents voiced concerns over smells from the same fertilizer plant, leading to a notice of violation from the Kentucky Division of Air Quality. The company at that time acknowledged the nuisance and worked to address the issue. In 2022, a hazardous odor prompted the evacuation of a local Walmart, though no injuries were reported. These incidents highlight the community’s ongoing vigilance regarding environmental concerns.
City’s Commitment to Community Safety
The City of Winchester remains committed to safeguarding the community. All relevant departments will continue to monitor the situation and respond as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the source of the unusual odor in Winchester?
The odor has been identified as originating from a nearby fertilizer plant that was using a new organic product similar to tree sap.
What actions have been taken to address the odor?
The fertilizer company has discontinued the use of the product responsible for the odor. Additionally, city departments conducted inspections and found no immediate safety concerns.
Have there been previous odor complaints in Winchester?
Yes, in 2017, residents reported similar odor issues from the same fertilizer plant, leading to a notice of violation from the Kentucky Division of Air Quality.
Is the odor harmful to residents?
City officials have stated that there are no immediate safety concerns related to the odor. However, residents are encouraged to report any health issues to local authorities.
How can residents report odor complaints in the future?
Residents can report odor complaints to the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet using the online Complaints Form. Providing detailed information, such as the location and description of the odor, will assist in the investigation.
Key Features of the Odor Incident in Winchester, Kentucky
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Hill Street area, Winchester, Kentucky |
| Identified Source | Nearby fertilizer plant using a new organic product similar to tree sap |
| Actions Taken | Fertilizer company discontinued use of the product; city departments conducted inspections and found no immediate safety concerns |
| Previous Complaints | Similar odor issues reported in 2017, leading to a notice of violation from the Kentucky Division of Air Quality |
| Community Response | Residents encouraged to report any health issues to local authorities; city remains committed to safeguarding the community |
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