KEEP OUT!
Like threats of a trespassing sign, the information available on asbestos contamination in Eden and Lowell seemed to be keeping something out. Health studies concluded asbestos related deaths in the area and contamination of air and downstream water sources from an inactive mine. So why wouldn't the people who are supposedly most effected by asbestos contamination vote in favor of a Superfund process? Eden local Leslie White, an expert and activist against Superfund gave us a side of the story you can't find in government documents and popular articles.
The Vermont Asbestos Group mine was a focal point of economic stability for Eden and Lowell residents. The mine provided jobs, and although posed a health risk, provided income for many families in the area. Leslie noted, "Yes, these men knew the risks involved. But when you have 6 children to feed, future health concerns are less of a priority." It wasn't until the state conducted a health study that inactive asbestos tailings became a concern.
Inactive Asbestos Tailings
The results of the State health study left locals enraged. Leslie argued that until the study was published, there was no worry about asbestos in the area. Out of staters vacationed in their rental homes, and locals went about their daily life. Yet after the study was made public, what once was considered to be quaint, rejuvenating mountain land was perceived as toxic, frightful, wasteland- thanks to nation wide media.
View of Tailings and Quarry
The worst part about such powerful negative media is that the study was flawed. Not only did the property value and economic growth in Eden and Lowell spiral downward, it was inaccurately conjectured. The five asbestos related deaths referred to in the study were due to direct occupational exposure, and the amount of asbestos found in nearby water was minuscule; proven to be less harmful than city drinking water. I found particular interest in why the State would publish erroneous information. How could state officials, who consider themselves professional, make such devastating and careless mistakes?
Eden Local Leslie White looks onto proposed area for a Biomass Plant
Leslie suggested that the State may have been up to something. In order to become a Superfund Site, there needs to be legitimate human health concerns and proof of contamination. It is possible that the State, in attempt to provide the EPA with work, misconstrued the evidence of the health study. Despite the questionable motives of State government, it is my understanding that the flawed health study did more damage to the townships of Eden and Lowell than asbestos did.
Livelihoods Abandoned, Seen Through a Chain Link Fence
My experience at the Vermont Asbestos Group Mine with Brianna and Ryan undoubtedly changed the way I view the Superfund controversy. Previously, I felt that the residents of Eden and Lowell blindly ignored the environmental impacts of asbestos contamination in hopes to save falling property values. Now I realize the complexity of the situation, the stakeholders involved and devastating role media has played in environmental policy.
Ryan and I Posing Under the VAG Sign
Ryan and Brianna Posing in Front of Abandoned Mine Equipment
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