Texas community battles against biosolids fertilizer over toxicity concerns

In Van Zandt County, Texas, local ranchers and farmers are intensifying their efforts to prevent the use of biosolids, a type of fertilizer made from human waste, on over 200 acres of nearby land. These community members, along with local officials, are raising concerns about the potential toxicity of chemicals contained in these fertilizers, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment.

During a heated public meeting in Canton on July 25, residents and officials debated the safety and environmental impact of permitting the spread of biosolids locally. Henderson County Commissioner Scott Tuley highlighted the stakes involved, stating, “This chemical is toxic. I stand with the ranchers, the farmers, the homeowners and people in this room and ask you to deny this permit on the basis of all forever chemicals are toxic and not needed in rural Texas.”

Concerns were further fueled by reports from Johnson County ranchers who claim that their land has been contaminated, leading to the death of livestock and fish, following the application of biosolid fertilizer by a neighbor.

Despite these fears, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) noted that the landowner seeking the permit had fulfilled all legal requirements. However, TCEQ officials also acknowledged that they currently lack the capacity to test for PFAS under Texas regulations, a gap that may be addressed by new EPA guidelines expected later this year.

Residents are particularly alarmed by the potential risks to local water sources, including a major aquifer less than 10 miles from the town, which supplies water to many local wells. “You can’t guarantee that the aquifer won’t be poisoned by this stuff you are going to put on the ground. And as a lifelong Texan, I find that appalling,” expressed resident Chris Morris.

In response to the public backlash and the contentious nature of the meeting, the landowner involved has indicated plans to withdraw the biosolids application, according to local media outlet WFAA.

This incident is part of a broader controversy surrounding the use of biosolids across Texas. As the state awaits further EPA guidelines, more counties have reported potential land contamination, prompting calls for action from state leaders to prevent further environmental damage and public health risks.