For Release: Friday, April 18, 2008
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION OF SLUDGE STUDIES

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry F. Costello (D-IL) has called for a full investigation into recent reports that federal grants were used to test whether fertilizers made from industrial sludge and human waste would protect residents from lead exposure.  According to the reports, the tests were conducted in low-income, black neighborhoods in East St. Louis , Illinois and Baltimore , Maryland .  Costello has asked the Department of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development for a full investigation into these studies and for a full briefing on the matter as soon as possible. 

“There are many troubling aspects of these reports and we need a full accounting of the scope of these projects,” said Costello.  “It seems that assurances were given to residents that the fertilizer was safe, when it is not at all clear that it is.  I am also concerned that inadequate follow-up of the study was performed.  We need answers to all of these questions.”

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