I know someone who lives in Bedford county next to a property where sewer sludge was applied last spring. Their dog got loose one day and became ill after running through the field of sludge. Over the next few months the dog got progressively worse, experiencing a number of issues – and finally died. Recently I have heard of a number of people who live next to properties that have either ‘storage sites’ or fields where sludge has been applied. Their stories are frightening. I feel sad for them, and for all those who are innocent bystanders – whose lives are being quite negatively affected by the decisions of a neighbor. I feel scared about how many more there will be. I feel angry that we, as a civilization, in this day and time – are making decisions that could potentially harm our friends, neighbors, strangers, animals, our food supply, our ground water… haven’t we learned anything from history? WE NEED TO INFORM OURSELVES. One great source of information is House Document 89, entitled ‘Review of Land Application of Biosolids in Virginia’, a report of the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission, published in November 2005. This is an excellent document, a fair and thorough analysis of the issues – from all perspectives. A copy can be obtained from your representative, or viewed online. The bottom line for me is, we do NOT have clear and convincing evidence that application of this sludge is safe. It must not be applied unless there is EXTREME caution exercised and EXHAUSTIVE procedures in place to monitor all related processes and evaluate any consequences. I feel lucky that I am not personally faced with looking at a neighbor’s field full of sludge. Not yet, anyway... How would you feel if it were happening on your neighbor’s land?