Comment
I am writing to express my deep concerns about the potential impact of the proposed York1 landfill on the water quality of our community, particularly regarding private well water sources.
Reliance on Well Water
All homes in our area, including my family's, rely on private wells for drinking water. There are no municipal water lines available, making our wells the sole source of potable water. My parents' well is located a mere 2 meters from the property line of the proposed landfill site, placing it in immediate jeopardy.
Risks of Contamination
Landfills, especially those without proper safeguards, can produce leachate—a toxic liquid formed when rainwater filters through waste. Leachate often contains harmful substances such as heavy metals, bacteria, and chemicals that can seep into the ground and contaminate nearby water sources .
Extoxnet
Studies have shown that even residential wells located over 1 km from landfill sites can experience contamination due to leachate migration . Given the proximity of my parents' well to the proposed landfill, the risk of contamination is alarmingly high.
Wiley Online Library
The Importance of Clean Water
Access to clean water is fundamental to our health and well-being. Contaminated well water can lead to serious health issues, including gastrointestinal illnesses, neurological disorders, and long-term diseases .
Without a comprehensive environmental assessment, there is no assurance that the landfill's operations will not adversely affect our water quality. The absence of such an assessment leaves residents vulnerable to potential health risks without accountability or recourse.
Call to Action
I urge you to reinstate the requirement for a full environmental assessment before proceeding with the landfill project. Protecting our water sources is not just an environmental issue; it is a matter of public health and safety.
Thank you for considering my concerns. I look forward to your support in ensuring that the health and safety of our community remain a priority.
Submitted May 16, 2025 9:36 PM
Comment on
Removing Environmental Assessment Requirements for the York1 Waste Disposal Site Project
ERO number
025-0389
Comment ID
146451
Commenting on behalf of
Comment status