VIRGINIA SLUDGE/BIOSOLIDS STUDY ON OVERSIGHT AND ENFORCEMENT
Comments by:
C. W. Williams, Chair
Biosolids Information Group
Several groups have addressed the recent JLARC's study re the HJR 643, which directs the
Commission to study land application of biosolids. The joint resolution was limited to oversight and
enforcement with some overreaching recommendations.
Having participated in the commission's study and being aware of the scope and purpose, I can
categorically state that the intent of the study was achieved. However, in exhibiting the facts of
oversight, it was proven that VDH/DEQ/EPA administrations of the program for land application of
sludge/biosolids has failed Virginia and its Citizens.
The JLARC Study did in fact recommend steps to correct existing inequities and problems. What
more could have been asked of this limited study? The issues of the areas addressed were
presented to all legislators and made accessible to all Virginians.
Delegates Hogan, Abbitt and Byron took the initiative, based on their duty and constituents'
requests, to request the study. The resolution was voted up by all but 5 legislators and in my book
that is a majority vote.
Much attention has been given that the study did not address the health issue. The study did not
and was not intended to address the health issue along with a multitude of other related issues on
land application of sludge in Virginia.
These are the points that must be acknowledged:
1. Citizens were successful in getting their legislators to investigate the lax, inept, favoritism and
visible corrosive management of the land application of sludge/biosolids in Virginia.
2. Having accomplished this study and results have been made known to the public, the
foundation has been set for Citizens to require their legislators to pass a resolution requesting the
JLARC to investigate the health issues. This study should address the effects land application of
sludge/biosolids has on the health, safety and welfare of all Virginians.
3. Main points of the JLARC Study: (i) The removal of VDH claims that the Citizens are a bunch of
complainers only because of the "stink" or odor. (ii) The removal that resistance to the biosolids
program is unjust and that the land application of sludge/biosoolids is effective and safe. (iii) The
removal that the program is well managed and self-policing by the waste industry is effective. (iv)
The removal that there is no cause for revision of the regulations, advisory committees or program
management and staff. (v) The removal that the environment is protected. (vi) The removal that
the VDH/DEQ/EPA has been honest and open with its information to the Citizens, Governor's
Office, the General Assembly and to State Citizens' control boards involved in pollution control
decisions.
4. The aforementioned facts are exhibited and exposed. It is time to take the next step for the
health investigation issue. As we know, this will be the most difficult and timely investigation.
However, documented video and physician information is available to assist any investigations.
The Citizens, as with Del. Hogan, Abbitt, Byron's constituents, must contact their representatives
for this HEALTH study resolution.
5. It is not difficult to track the votes of members and committees when the resolution is requested,
discussed and passed/failed. While restitution can be taken with those voting against the interest
and welfare of the Citizens, this action is not anticipated. I cannot agree that the total General
Assembly membership is blind to the harmful plight caused by land application of sludge/biosolids
and illnesses visited on Virginians. The General Assembly members cannot discount the fact that
only 8% responded in support of the current land application program. The remaining 92% does
constitute a majority for investigation and change in management/practices of the land application
sludge/biosolids program.
6. Given that the Assembly, Governor's Office and State pollution control boards are now aware of
the VDH/DEQ/EPA's mismanagement, it is time to move forward as united Virginians supporting the
health, safety and welfare of Virginia.
Every Virginian should contact their legislator without delay. This email will be forwarded to all
legislators and be included in the Pollution Information Newsletter (PIN) which is sent, monthly, to
all legislator's district offices at no charge. None can say that they are unaware.
Respectfully,
C. W. Williams, Chair
Biosolids Information Group
VDH-BURAC Citizens' Representative
A VIRGINIA CONCERNED CITIZEN