Ever since the homes in Wicomico County’s Coulbourne Woods and Morris Mill subdivisions were constructed in the early 1990’s resident were exposed to water contaminated by an environmental solvent.
That’s what state environmental official told a public gathering at Parkside High School in Salisbury last night.
Art O’Connell with the Maryland Department of the Environment land management division said the chemical was most likely trichloroethylene from a former farm that used untreated human refuse as fertilizer before the 1980’s.
The Salisbury Daily Times reports that the colorless liquid is used mostly to remove grease from metal as well as being used in paint removers and adhesives.
The paper reports that the State Registry finds that long term consumption can result in liver and kidney damage as well as weaken the immune system.
Bathing in contaminated water for a long time can cause a rash.
Dr. Cliff Mitchell, director of the Maryland Department of Health, told the residents that he is not recommending any test for procedures but recommended that residents drink bottled water or have the EPA install carbon filters.
The Daily Times reports that the most likely solution to the problem is to extend the public water system from the city of Fruitland to the community.
But the $8.5 million project will need state and possibly federal funding
