Atrazine is a herbicide that has been used widely over many years by our agricultural community. The ever growing information linking this herbicide to birth defects and other risk not only to humans but also to aquatic life is alarming. Right here in the heartland we have seen the most parts per billion in ground surface water in Little Pigeon Creek. The EPA claims that 3(ppb) is considered a safe level for humans to cosume in their drinking water. In May of 2005 (ppb) at Little Pigeon Creek were reported at over 250 (ppb). While the EPA stands by the 3 (ppb) being safe, studies are showing Atrazine's risks at much lower levels. I am a resident of Warrick County Indiana, less than 20 miles from Little Pigeon Creek. My son was conceived in May of 2009 ( May through July is spraying season) when water contamination of Atrazine is much higher. He was born with a rare birth defect, gastroschisis, which studies have shown is increasingly being linked to exposure to this herbicide. Exposure is likely through drinking water, bathing water and lungs. Indiana has more than 160% higher rate of these birth defects than the rest of the country and cases of gastroschisis rise during the spraying months. Syngenta, a European company is the maker of this herbicide. Ironically enough, Atrazine is banned in Europe. Please sign the petition for the ban of Atrazine use not only in Indiana, but overall. If we are to protect our children and give them the best chance of a healthy life we have to be their advocates. What you don't know can hurt you.

Sponsor

Links