Pungent poultry fertiliser

Chicken manure spread across a farming property outside Morwell is most likely the source of a strong odour brewing over the town in recent weeks.

The Environment Protection Authority said it had received 44 general odour reports between 7 and 16 August.

The air quality authority said it conducted a field investigation determined farming land on the north-west edge of the Morwell township was the most likely source.

EPA informed the farmer of the odour reports, gathered information on his spreading timeline and gave compliance advice.

“The farmer was advised on best practice management to prevent future odour impacts on the community,” an EPA media statement said.

“So while the activity is a legitimate re-use and the EPA encourages this, we have encouraged the farmer to consider future actions so he can be a good neighbour.”