Frequently Heard Untrue Statements

Mason County, WA USA

Mason County Progressive

LET US TAKE THE LONGER VIEW

Submitted to Shelton Blog by Carol Salzer Mason County Progressive

I would like to address some untrue statements that are frequently heard about something very important to me and to all residents of Mason County:

1. “ADAGE is a done deal.”
No. ADAGE representatives are still involved in the required permitting process (ORCAA and SEPA}.

2. “Only 'kooks' and paid outsiders are against biomass burning for power.”
No. We are ordinary citizens who care deeply about the health of our neighbors, relatives, friends, the children of the County, and the elderly. We also want to keep the lovely environment in which we live. In fact, you might see white-haired octogenarians waving signs for the first time in their lives!

3. “The dangers to our health are greatly exaggerated.”
No. The sub-micron particles emitted out of the ADAGE smokestack by the ton are, according to medical societies across the country, the American Lung Association, even the Cancer Society, able to penetrate the lining of the lung and enter the blood stream, causing all kinds of illnesses. The insidious thing is that it takes awhile for these illnesses to develop, so the danger is not immediately apparent, as is asthma. Our local doctors have written a letter against biomass burning for this reason.

4. “We will get an opportunity to vote on whether or not we favor the building of ADAGE on Johns Prairie.”
No. Our County and Port Commissioners refused even when presented with more than 3000 signatures of registered Mason County voters asking for the opportunity. I believe the response was that we wouldn't vote on a new 7-11, so why on ADAGE? (As if there is any comparison!)

5. “ADAGE will bring prosperity to Mason County.”
No. There will be an influx of construction workers coming and going as their particular trade is needed, but they will not be permanent. Then what will happen? ADAGE promises 24 permanent jobs only. The truck drivers bringing in the thousands of tons of fuel needed daily will probably come from forest areas away from here, since the 600,000 tons of biomass needed every year will be depleted quickly in our area.

6. “Since the Chamber of Commerce and some union leaders are in favor of ADAGE, shouldn't we follow their lead?”
No. All of them have been convinced by ADAGE representatives that they will gain money and/or jobs. Let us take the longer view. What will be the long-lasting effects of this huge plant, l50 feet tall with a l70 foot smokestack? In five years, after 3,000,000 tons have been burned? Think about it. Research it. Then decide for yourselves. That's what I did.

Photo by Christine