My wife and I have been feeling sick for several weeks, so we had our private well tested. Recent test results show the presence of Coliform bacteria in addition to E. coli bacteria, high nitrate-nitrogen levels and other contaminants.   According to information provided by the Olmsted County Environmental Health Services Department, “Coliform bacteria are living organisms found in the intestines of humans and animals and in the soil. Their presence in well water indicated direct contamination by sewage, animals or surface water. Coliform bacteria are a signal that disease-causing bacteria and viruses may be present in the water supply.” The test results conclude that my water may not be safe to drink.

I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised. Our farm in rural Dodge County is surrounded by over 30,000 pigs in a two-mile radius. These large factory farms create huge environmental problems and have contributed to our well going dry, which was the subject of a DNR sweep earlier this year.  Not only are the pigs sucking up the water, the estimated 15 million gallons of pig manure has also contaminated our well.

But, Dodge County continues to approve factory farms.  There is a current application pending for construction of yet another factory farm in Hayfield Township that will house 3,300 pigs. The county has never denied an application for a feedlot. A hearing is scheduled at 1 p.m. Wednesday in Mantorville.

Dodge County — enough is enough! How many more people are you going to poison with your irresponsible actions?

 

Dale Schmeling

Hayfield