County Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Source Of Strong Odor

SMITHFIELD – Johnston County Public Utilities is investigating a strong and persistent odor in the South Smithfield-Four Oaks area, but officials have not determined where it is coming from.

The odor was first reported Tuesday and has continued, with reports indicating it has been particularly noticeable during the overnight and early morning hours.

One area where the odor has been especially noticeable is South Smithfield near the county’s wastewater treatment plant on East Huntley Drive, off South Brightleaf Boulevard.

Johnston County Public Utilities is working with N.C. Emergency Management to identify the source, resolve the issue and ensure there are no risks to public health.

Utility crews are conducting tests as part of the investigation.

One possibility being examined is whether an unknown substance may have been discharged into the wastewater system from a commercial, industrial or residential source. Officials have not determined that such a discharge occurred or that it is responsible for the odor.

No specific source has been identified.

The county is asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information about a discharge that may have entered the wastewater system, or other information that could help identify the source of the odor, is asked to contact Johnston County Public Utilities at 919-989-5075 or publicutilities@johnstonnc.gov.