Sun, Jan 7 at 1:43 P

 

Petition to halt the proposal by City of Spokane to apply Class B Biosolids in Stevens County 114 acres from from McAllister Rd to 2450 feet west of McAllister Rd, from Scotts Valley Rd to 2220 feet south of Scotts Valley Rd, Stevens County.

 

 

 

We, the residents of Stevens County, WA, USA, live by the lake and rely on local wells for our water. We breathe in fresh air every day. We recreate on Long Lake. Our way of life is under threat due to the proposed project at the above site of biosolid deposits on our farmlands. These deposits pose a risk to our health, soil, water supply from wells and even the air we breathe.

 

Biosolids are treated sewage sludge that is intended to be used as fertilizer. However, they can contain harmful substances such as heavy metals, viruses and pathogens that can contaminate soil and groundwater (source: Environmental Protection Agency). In a county like ours where many rely on well water for drinking and irrigation purposes, as well as lake recreation, this could lead to serious health issues.

 

Moreover, when biosolids dry out they can become airborne causing respiratory problems among other health concerns (source: National Institute of Health). This puts at risk not just those who work directly with these materials but all residents in proximity.

 

Several more concerns to be aware of. 1) There are 700 known pollutants in biosolids. We do not know what is in these nor how often it is tested. 

 

j2) Biosolids emit a distinctive odor which include ammonia, amines and sulfur containing compounds. Depending upon weather, wind and humidity the odor may be present for some time. 3) The devaluation of property is certainly concerning. Word of human waste in nearby farmlands will certainly negatively impact renting or selling of property. 4) Harm to animals, both domestic and wild. Potential to attract flies and other vermin.

 

We urge local authorities to halt the proposed use of biosolid deposits on farmland in Stevens County immediately. The health risks associated with these practices are too great to ignore. With this petition we aim to protect our homes, our environment and most importantly - our health.

 

Please sign this petition today if you care about preserving clean soil, safe drinking water from wells and fresh air in Stevens County.