In brief
A coalition of Virginians is opposing Maryland's plan to send toxic sewage sludge used as fertilizer across state lines, fearing risks to agriculture and waterways.
In a troubling turn of events, Maryland's sewage treatment plants have identified dangerous “forever chemicals” contaminating their sewage, which is typically converted into fertilizer for agricultural use. As a preventative measure, the state has begun to limit the use of this contaminated sewage sludge fertilizer. Despite this, Synagro, a prominent producer of sludge for fertilizer, has sought permits to apply more of this fertilizer across the Virginia border, raising significant concerns among local communities.Environmental advocates, fishing organizations, and concerned farmers in Virginia are vehemently opposing the transfer of this toxic sludge to their state. They argue that just because Maryland deems this fertilizer unsafe for its own farms, Virginia should not be subjected to the potential hazards it poses to local agriculture and water systems. Dean Naujoks, representative of the Potomac Riverkeeper Network, expressed frustration, stating, “These sewage sludge fertilizers aren’t safe enough for farms in Maryland, so they’re coming to Virginia. That’s wrong.”This scenario underscores a broader trend whereby states with more relaxed environmental regulations could become dumping grounds for contaminated waste, as neighboring states tighten their own controls. The implications for rural Virginia are significant, with local filings indicating a push from Synagro to increase sludge application in the region. The company, backed by an investment fund from Goldman Sachs, finds itself at the center of a growing crisis concerning farmland contamination across the United States.
