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and suggested the supervisors “keep Rappahannock pure.” He said if sludge is allowed, the county should do extensive testing on water supplies.
B. J. Welch said he opposed the use of sludge but suggested the supervisors put the issue on the ballot in November so the people could vote.
John Alexander said, “Nothing I have heard tonight or read or heard makes me think sludge is detrimental.”
Jennifer Alexander said the risks are no greater than with chemical fertilizers.
Nelson Atkins said he objects to the odor of sludge.
Bill Fletcher said he knew of an instance with a farmer in northern Fauquier County who had a problem with calves dying from too much iron. He noted that only 1 to 2 percent of the land in Rappahannock is suitable for sludge and said the risk is too great for such a small advantage.
John Foote, the attorney representing farmers who have sued the county over the sludge ban, said he does not believe the county has the power to ban sludge outright. He suggested the supervisors could adopt regulations on top of state regulations to control its use.
Bob Peers and Steve McMahan from Bio-Gro a firm that spreads sludge said they have the sludge they spread tested monthly. They said they have worked out an agreement to idemnify farmers if
See Sludge, Page A-2
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