MAINE–(ENEWSPF)–October 8, 2011
California led the charge to ban methyl bromide, but stockpiles still remain that may be used in certain situations.
In Maryland, where we have more SafeLawns followers than any state outside of New England, folks are asking us to get involved in a growing controversy surrounding the planned use of the toxic methyl bromide on a Chevy Chase golf course: http://chevychase.patch.com/articles/methyl-bromide-is-unwelcome-in-chevy-chase.
Here are the issues:
1) Methyl bromide is in the process of being phased out of production worldwide under The Montreal Protocol because the substance depletes the ozone layer;
2) Although manufacturing the product is illegal, certain organizations such as golf courses have a limited remaining window to utilize remaining inventory;
3) The residents of Chevy Chase, concerned more about the health risks, are asking neighbors to sign a petition to request its local club refrain from using methyl bromide next spring. To sign the petition, contact Somerset Environment Committee Chair George Wyeth at [email protected].
Here is the warning language from the EPA concerning methyl bromide:
Methyl bromide is highly toxic. Studies in humans indicate that the lung may be severely injured by the acute (short-term) inhalation of methyl bromide. Acute and chronic (long-term) inhalation of methyl bromide can lead to neurological effects in humans. Neurological effects have also been reported in animals.
Given that information alone, SafeLawns stands with the concerned citizens of Chevy Chase in demanding this substance not be used, especially in the proximity of residential neighborhoods where it will be impossible to keep the substance away from children.
Source: www.safelawns.org
