The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's $45 million cleanup plan for a polluted section of Bear Creek near Turner Station, Baltimore, is facing scrutiny from local residents.
Aman Azhar reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- The EPA plans to dredge and cap a 61-acre area of Bear Creek, contaminated with heavy metals and carcinogens, to prevent further pollution.
- Residents of Turner Station, a historic African American community, express concerns about the effectiveness and safety of the cleanup.
- The community, already burdened by pollution, fears potential resuspension of contaminants and inadequate measures to prevent flooding.
Key quote:
"I’m already dealing with the effects of Agent Orange and I’m not ready to deal with contaminants as a result of this dredging."
— Linwood Jackson, Vietnam veteran and Turner Station resident
Why this matters:
This situation highlights the challenges of environmental justice in historically marginalized communities. It underscores the need for effective communication and trust-building between government agencies and local residents, especially in areas disproportionately affected by industrial pollution.
Be sure to read Peter Dykstra’s 2021 piece: A well-intentioned law hits a landmark anniversary as President Biden inherits more than 1,500 Superfund sites.
