Lagoon Odor Control

lagoon odor control solutions

Understanding and Controlling Lagoon Odors

Lagoon odor control is a common problem, but it doesn't have to be inevitable. In fact, many odors are a sign of a larger issue that can be addressed and avoided. When odors become a nuisance and start to generate complaints from neighbors and the community at large, it's often a sign that something is amiss in the lagoon.

To effectively control lagoon odors, it's essential to understand why they're occurring in the first place. By identifying the root cause of the odor, you can take steps to address the underlying issue and prevent future odors from forming. This is the first step towards effective lagoon odor control.

The Science of Lagoon Odor

Lagoon odor is a complex issue that requires a deep understanding of the underlying chemistry and biology. At SciCorp, we've dedicated ourselves to studying the science behind lagoon odor and developing effective solutions to minimize its impact.

The Role of Microorganisms

Lagoon odor is caused by the breakdown of organic matter, such as wastewater, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. This process involves a complex interplay of microorganisms, enzymes, and chemical reactions. 

Lagoon Sludge Odors

As a wastewater pond ages, sludge begins to accumulate on the bottom. This sludge is composed of forms of BOD that the bacteria were not easily able to digest, mostly insoluble BOD. Eventually, this insoluble BOD sinks to the bottom, where it combines with dead bacteria, live bacteria, and small amounts of inorganics to form a sludge layer. This happens at a faster rate in cold climates where several months per year the bacteria are digesting material at a fraction of the rate they normally do.

Lagoon odors can also originate from the digestion of soluble organics and BOD in the water column. This is particularly common during the summer months when bacterial activity is at its peak.

As sludge builds to 12” or more in thickness, only the upper inch or two remains oxygenated, leaving the rest of the layer anaerobic. Anaerobic environments are hotbeds for odors, and this is where the significant lagoon odors are generated.

lagoon sludge odor

Small amounts of those odors begin to rise out of the sludge and through the water column, ultimately making it to the atmosphere. The thicker the sludge blanket, the more odors are generated, and the more they are noticed by people in the lagoon's vicinity. And in many climates, a spring turnover of the water column will accelerate the rise of those odors.

Our first focus for preventing odors is always to reduce sludge thickness and prevent new accumulations. SciCorp's BIOLOGIC SR2 is a powerful tool in this effort, as it works to break down organic matter and eliminate the root causes of lagoon odor.

This specially formulated blend of microorganisms is designed to rapidly colonize the water and reduce sludge thickness, minimizing the anaerobic environments that foster odor-causing microorganisms.

Benefits of Our Lagoon Odor Solutions

  • Improved air quality
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Cost-effective
  • Customized solutions

At SciCorp, we understand the importance of effective lagoon odor control. Our solutions not only improve air quality by reducing VOCs and hydrogen sulfide gas, but also help you achieve regulatory compliance and minimize the risk of fines and penalties.


Our cost-effective solutions are designed to minimize costs while maximizing effectiveness, and our team works with you to develop a customized solution that meets your specific needs and goals.


Whether you're looking to reduce odors, improve air quality, or simply ensure regulatory compliance, we have the expertise and solutions to help you.

Lagoon Odor Case Study

Stratford WWTP

The town's wastewater treatment facility was overloaded and as a result was experiencing operational upsets including lagoon odor control issues, sludge management challenges, and poor effluent quality.

SciCorp lagoon odor solutions