March 24, 2008--Tree spraying in Summit beetle battle could threaten water quality (Aspen Times)
The chemicals local towns and neighborhoods are spraying to prevent the spread of the pine beetle could be contaminating local water supplies, according to the Silverthorne/Dillon Joint Sewer Authority. Last May, employees at the Silverthorne treatment plant performed a toxicology test on water that had been treated and was on its way out into the Blue River. The routine test — usually done twice a year — involved placing 20 minnows and 20 water fleas in a container of plant effluent to see how they fared. After 48 hours, the minnows survived, but all 20 of the water fleas died.
To view the full article, visit the Aspen Times. For a copy of the original article contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.