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Lancaster residents tell supervisors smoke from Ransons Nursery is making people ill; county says it is coordinating with DEQ
Summary
Multiple residents from Hills Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods told the Lancaster County Board of Supervisors that persistent smoke and odors from Ransons Nursery have caused headaches and respiratory irritation since Aug. 26; Supervisor Lee said county staff and the Department of Environmental Quality are investigating and the board will review ordinance enforcement and possible changes.
Several residents urged Lancaster County officials Nov. 20 to address persistent smoke and odors they say have drifted from commercial activity at Ransons Nursery into nearby neighborhoods.
"My home is filled with this toxic smoke," resident Ethel Frederick told the Board of Supervisors during the public-input period, saying the smell infiltrates houses and has forced her to turn off her heating system and rely on electric heaters. Rod Gordon and Lord Hill described lingering smoldering embers and symptoms including headaches, coughing and aggravated asthma among children and seniors.
"This pollution is going on," Frederick said, urging the county to act. Lord Hill said alternatives such as mulching, composting or hauling debris could reduce smoke without penalizing homeowners or businesses.
Supervisor Lee responded that county staff, the county attorney and administration are reviewing existing ordinances and will work hand in hand with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to determine what enforcement or regulatory changes are available. Lee said he had a conference call with DEQ the evening of Nov. 20 and that staff will consider whether amendments to county regulations are needed to prevent similar incidents.
Multiple speakers noted that a new school and family recreational facilities are sited near the affected area, amplifying concern about outdoor air exposure for children. Joye Galtony read DEQ materials describing the kinds of clearing and waste types that can produce smoke and asked county leaders to clarify exactly what materials are being burned.
County officials did not announce any immediate enforcement action during the meeting; Supervisor Lee said staff are "looking into our ordinances and regulations that we have on the books now and seeing what we can enforce and looking at maybe adopting some new ones going forward." The matter remains under investigation.
What’s next: The board indicated staff will continue coordination with DEQ and explore regulatory or enforcement options. Residents were told to expect follow-up from county staff.
