In May 2015, Oregon DEQ requested assistance from EPA in response to numerous reports of unusual odors in and around homes and commercial buildings along South Canyon Boulevard in the community of John Day, Oregon. ODEQ received requests for assistance from the City of John Day, Oregon.
In addition to reports of unusual solvent-like odors from residents and building occupants, an environmental consultant to Grant County, conducted limited sampling for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Results suggested that more extensive air monitoring for vapors may be needed.
EPA On-Scene Coordinators (OSCs) and their START contractors arrived on scene May 21, 2015 and began air monitoring in area homes and commercial buildings in order to determine the extent and general levels of vapor intrusion into these structures along and around a five to ten block stretch of South Canyon Boulevard.
