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Fracking News

State will test DISH residents for drilling toxins

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State to test health in Dish
Agency to study possible link between symptoms, natural gas production

Among the acute symptoms, residents reported frequent sinus infections and nosebleeds, headaches, persistent coughs and irritated eyes. Town librarian Dawn Melton was one of those who had debilitating migraines, one of which triggered a stroke, her doctors told her.

I want to say this is very good news–I want to, but I can’t. I think DISH should proceed with great caution. We must remember that the same governor who appointed a global warming denier to the highest environmental office in Texas, appointed the people in charge of Texas Department of State Health Services.

I might have mentioned once or twice or maybe a bunch that TCEQ is busy spinning the Barnett Shale emissions issue to deflect attention away from the neurotoxins so, maybe, just maybe, no one will notice all those sick folks. See, the benzene exposure won’t make anybody sick for years. So, if it’s all about the benzene, then they can claim there are no health effects.

Proceed with caution, Mayor. Let’s find out the methodology they plan to use.

About Sharon Wilson

Sharon Wilson is considered a leading citizen expert on the impacts of shale oil and gas extraction. She is the go-to person whether it’s top EPA officials from D.C., national and international news networks, or residents facing the shock of eminent domain and the devastating environmental effects of natural gas development in their backyards.

Comments

  1. Anonymous says

    After seeing "Erin Brockovich" last Sunday, I wonder if Chromium 6 (Hexavalent type) is being used there. It was once common in the petroleum industry as an anti-corrosive. Cement factories can also emit hexavalent chromium. But, many other chemicals can cause nose bleeds. This does not sounds like simple allergies.

    Too bad the TCEQ monitors so few different types of chemicals, for it becomes a nightmare for the average person to find the reason behind environmental caused illnesses.

  2. Anonymous says

    In this situation I wouldn't trust a Texas state agency any further than I could throw them–particularly the WCEQ. Be careful folks. If a state agency is doing it, the tests will come up "clean" and then you will have to test your self anyway at even more expense. Be careful.