Rotting clams that stunk up Rhode Island neighborhood are being removed

TIVERTON, R.I. (AP) — The rotting clamshells that were used to pave an access road in a small Rhode Island community are being removed after neighbors complained about the stench and maggots.

WJAR-TV reports that workers were at the property Wednesday morning to remove the clams after the property owner was issued a cease-and-desist order giving him until the end of the week to remove them.

A crew with heavy equipment was seen scooping up shells.

The owner used the shells to pave an access road two weeks ago. But they had meat still attached, leading to a putrid smell as it decomposed. Video showed maggots crawling all over the road.

State environmental authorities said the clamshells were considered waste because of the decaying clam meat.

The property owner has refused to comment.

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Information from: WJAR-TV, http://www.turnto10.com