The recent "Tools and Techniques for Precise Odor Assessment" webcast, organized by the Water Environment Federation (WEF), brought together professionals to discuss current practices in managing odor complaints and identifying control strategies. Drawing over 340 registrants and 181 online attendees, the event featured presentations from experts in both the field and the laboratory, with the session recording now available for free for those interested in odor impact management.
Beginning with a look at the process from logging complaints to selecting appropriate mitigation technologies, this webcast outlined a step-by-step approach. This included demonstrations of odor monitoring equipment and laboratory analysis methods. Several speakers highlighted the benefit of systematic strategies for addressing odor issues, integrating different tools and data sources.
The live webcast took place on July 10, 2025, moderated by Inken Mello a well-known odor expert current chair of WEF's Air Quality and Odor Control Committee that recently moved to Black & Veatch. The program started with Monica Maples and Mark Feltner from Hampton Roads Sanitary District, who discussed odor complaint logging and the importance of documentation to support investigations and response.
Jim Ross of Webster Environmental Associates provided insight into methods for field sampling and testing, outlining techniques for determining the sources of odor. His presentation emphasized the role of systematic data gathering in effective management.
Lindy Eppinger from Detection Instruments reviewed available equipment for odor assessment and monitoring, addressing advancements in portable and real-time detection technologies. These tools, she demonstrated, can contribute to more accurate monitoring.
Thomas Vallarino of St. Croix Sensory discussed laboratory analysis and the identification of specific odor-causing compounds. Laboratory findings can provide important information for targeted solutions, supplementing field data.
Casey Davis of Black & Veatch covered the connection between odor characterization and technology selection for mitigation purposes, highlighting how a thorough assessment informs the choice of appropriate remedies.
The last part of the webcast was a very interesting Q&A discussion session, which is usually one of the most enjoyable aspects of these kinds of events.
The good thing about this webcast is that it has already been recorded and is available for free upon registration. If you are a water utility manager, this is a must-watch event. Enjoy!.
Registration details and access to the recording can be found on the WEF learning platform here.
