SEWAGE SLUDGE
Sludge spreading debate raises liability concerns, fertilizer questions for farmers
Farmers were told by state and federal leaders for decades it was safe to spread sewage sludge but they are now are seeing consequences.
Spectrum News investigated the use of sewage sludge — also known as biosolids— on farmland and efforts to ban it because it can be contaminated with cancer-causing forever chemicals.
Farmers were told by state and federal leaders for decades it was safe to spread sewage sludge but they are now are seeing consequences.
Chemicals used for non-stick pans, clothing, cleaning products and more are now showing up in the environment.
"Forever chemicals" have been found in drinking wells, streams and ponds by a 2,800-acre property that used sewage sludge as fertilizer for decades.
Over the past five months, we investigated the use of sewage sludge on farmland, efforts to ban it and links to “forever chemicals.”
Researchers race to learn more about these "forever chemicals."
In 2022, Maine became the first state in the nation to ban the spreading of sewage sludge on farm fields.
When a large waste management company acquired 2,800 acres of farmland in Steuben County, it set off a David vs. Goliath battle against sludge.
As New York looks to increase the spreading of biosolids on farmland, the EPA is warning the practice could have major health implications.
