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Eldred Township weighs options on the use of biosolid fertilizer

Earlier this month a large number of residents turned confronted the Eldred Township Board of Supervisors expressing their concerns over the use of biosolids by area farmers.

Biosolids, also referred to as sludge or bio-sludge, is a byproduct of waste water treatment plants. For years biosolids were trucked off to landfills for disposal, but in recent years the waste industry has been disposing of the dehydrated “cakes” by distributing biosolids as fertilizer for feed crops.

Residents made a case to the supervisors, citing research into the use of biosolids and various claims of potential health impacts. One resident described the intolerable odor, gagging and burning throat and eyes when the farm adjoining her property was sprayed with the product.

The Eldred supervisors approved a motion at the previous meeting to retain the law firm of Curtin and Heefner to advise them on options available to control or stop the use of the materials in the township.

Wednesday evening the supervisors discussed those options.

“We can appeal the DEP permit, looking into monitoring surrounding properties and consider strengthening our local ordinances,” said Chairwomen Mary Anne Clausen. “We can’t control much with the ordinances because we are limited by state law, which is why I suggest it’s time to call your state representative.”

A motion was made to file an appeal of the DEP approval to spread biosolids and to have special counsel handle the appeal.

“This motion allows the township to file the appeal if that is what the special counsel agrees is the best option,” said solicitor Michael Gaul. “The motion is needed because there won’t be another public meeting before the deadline for the appeal runs.”

Gaul said that landowners affected by the permit should not rely solely on the township to appeal the permit and that they should pursue actions open to them as well.

The township will continue to look into other options under the direction of the special counsel.

Gaul cautioned residents regarding the costs of taking action.

“There are already regulations on biosludge in the state,” he said. “Any opposition will succeed only if made on a sound scientific basis.”

There was some discussion of HB 2281, regarding biosolids, which is currently under consideration.

“The house bill was built to fail,” environmental advocate Donald Moore said. “There are items in that bill that could never pass. Things that no one is going to approve.”

In other business

In other business the township will be taking part in “Pick-Up the Poconos” on Sept. 29. Anyone interested in helping out can sign up online or at the township office. The township will have a bulk trash drop-off at the community center from 8 a.m. to noon on Sept. 29 as well.

The Eldred Township Historical Society is looking to help in doing some basic maintenance to the old post office. The group hopes to power wash the exterior, patch the siding and apply a coat of primer.

Clausen said the group is asking for help with repairing the porch before the other work can begin. The group will also be applying for grants to support the cost of additional improvements to the building.

The most recent profit and loss statement for the Eldred Township Community Center shows that the community center took in $91,560 this year, with $32,000 coming from the thrift store. After deducting expenses, including a significant roof repair, much of which was paid by insurance, the community center netted a profit of $7,113.29 for the year.