Post Reports The danger of forever chemicals
Apr 14, 2022
Freelance journalist Keith O'Brien, author of "Paradise Falls," sheds light on the alarming issue of 'forever chemicals,' or PFAS, that have devastated farmers in Maine. He shares the gripping story of Adam Nordell and Johanna Davis, who discovered their land contaminated with these harmful substances, halting their organic farming efforts. O'Brien highlights the staggering number of contaminated sites across the country and the inadequate regulatory responses that leave communities vulnerable. Legislative initiatives in Maine are also discussed as a fight against this environmental crisis.
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Songbird Farm's PFAS Contamination
- Adam and Johanna, organic farmers in Maine, discovered their farm's water and land were severely contaminated with PFAS.
- This contamination, linked to sludge used as fertilizer, forced them to halt operations and jeopardized their health and livelihood.
Deer and PFAS Contamination
- High PFAS levels were found in deer near Fairfield, Maine, prompting warnings against consuming the meat.
- This discovery led to the realization that Songbird Farm, where the deer grazed, was also contaminated, raising concerns.
Health Impacts of PFAS
- High PFAS levels, 250 times the average American's, were found in Adam and Johanna's blood tests.
- This discovery raised serious health concerns and linked the previous farm owner's cancer to the contamination.
